By Rosalind Russell-
With the municipal election just around the corner, Elliot Lake council has passed a motion to give its CAO more powers to conduct business during what is called the lame duck period.
Council voted to turn over their executive powers to CAO Daniel Gagnon to cover a 90-day period following this year’s municipal election in October.
Some of the powers Gagnon acquires include the authority to hire and fire staff, as well as approve spending items exceeding $50,000 in cash or purchases.
However, that power is only allowed to come into play when it is determined that less than 75 percent of the previous council will be returning to sit on the new council following nomination day.
Councils enter a dormant period following elections to allow new councillors to transition into their new roles and gain an understanding in governance before taking back the reins.
The dormant period in Elliot Lake covers the first three months of 2023.
Photo: Daniel Gagnon, the CAO of the City of Elliot Lake is being granted additional powers during the lameduck period following the municipal election. Photo provided and used with permission.
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