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OPEN DELEGATION BY A REPRESENTATIVE(S) OF BARRIE 123 REGARDING A RANKED BALLOT VOTING SYSTEM
Dr. P. Kizoff and Mr. K. Robertson from Barrie 123 provided an Open Delegation concerning ranked ballot voting systems.
Dr. Kizoff discussed that recent changes to the Municipal Elections Act, provide municipalities with the option of using a ranked ballot voting system for future municipal elections. He commented that this voting method is currently utilized by political parties when selecting a new party leader. He noted the opportunity for the City of Barrie to be part of a historic moment.
Dr. Kizoff explained the concept of a ranked ballot voting system, and that it would give voters the option to rank a list of candidates on a ballot in order of their preference. He detailed the process related to how votes are counted and allocated to each candidate. He also provided reasons related to why he felt that a ranked ballot system is beneficial. Dr. Kizoff discussed possible avenues for gathering information related to public interest concerning ranked ballet.
In closing, Dr. Kizoff and Mr. Robertson advised that the introduction of a ranked ballot voting system in municipal elections is not likely to happen right away, but they were asking to start the discussion, to educate the public, begin the investigation and bring democracy into the City of Barrie.
Members of the Committee and members of Council present asked a number of questions of the presenters and received responses.