Citizens told me that it was possible to reduce the number of municipal council seats in a small municipality such as North Hatley.
According to my research, municipalities with fewer than 2,000 residents without districts can, by bylaw, reduce the composition of the council to the mayor and four councilors (instead of six). The procedure requires a draft bylaw, a public consultation (notice ≥ 10 days), and adoption no later than December 31 of the year preceding the general election. The bylaw is sent to the MAMH and the DGEQ and applies as of that election. In North Hatley (≈ 675-690 inhabitants), this option is therefore legally available. Publications du Quebec+1
Impacts to be weighed
- Governance: quorum of 3, fewer voices around the table; vigilance regarding the quality of public debate. Legis Québec
- Costs: potential savings (to be calculated precisely according to the remuneration regulations and allowances in force).
Reference: Advisors—base remuneration: $8,284.29/year, expense allowance: $4,193.93 (annual total: $12,478.22). Per special meeting: $50.98 + $25.46 allowance ($76.44). North Hatley - Democratic appeal: if the goal is to avoid vacant seats/acclamations, reduction may help; conversely, to enrich the debate, it will be necessary to better recruit and support candidates.
My recommendation if such a situation were to arise
- Publish a citizen information note explaining the procedure and consequences;
- Hold a consultation (beyond the legal minimum) with comparative scenarios 6 vs. 4 (quorum, committees, costs, risks of acclamation);
- If this option is chosen, the timeline is to aim for adoption before December 31, 2028, with entry into force at the 2029 election.. Publications du Québec
In short, it is difficult to comment on such a change and its effects, both positive and negative.
Let’s think about it.
