Fractured council reveals dysfunction during meeting
Township of Springwater CAO Schmitt Resigns
By Brian Belcourt, Reporter, Linda Belcourt, Editor
A special meeting of council was called to discuss a transition plan after hearing of the resignation of CAO Jeff Schmidt, who announced that he was resigning to accept a position with the city of Barrie. His Linked In profile announced his new role of General Manager of Community and Corporate Services. Jeff Schmidt was committed to the township for over ten years. He was a valuable resource to council and is a huge loss to the township.
In her opening statement, Mayor Coughlin questioned the reasoning for a meeting as it was during the scheduled holiday time off. The Mayor had scheduled a meeting for January 2, 2025 to discuss the transition plan of CAO Schmidt decision to leave the Springwater township. The mayor apologized to staff who were scheduled to be off until January. 2, 2025.
The Special Council Meeting was scheduled for Friday, December 27, 2024 – 10:00 a.m. It was requested by petition from the following members: Deputy Mayor Cabral and Councilors Alexander, Moore and Fisher.
The agenda stated the session was closed because of a personal matter about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees; or Labour relations or employee negotiations.
Before Council went into closed session, the infighting within the present council was on full display.
Mayor Coughlin in her opening statement, thanked CAO Schmidt for his contribution to the township. Mayor Coughlin stated, “It is of my opinion that this meeting is untimely and unfounded. The terms in which the CAO has resigned, offer time for proper succession allowing for the best possible transition for Springwater. Abruptly altering the course of this meeting is out of spite either towards me, CAO Schmidt or City of Barrie.”
Deputy Mayor George Cabral took issue with the comment, “out of spite”, and further added, “This meeting is out of urgency, giving the situation.” He continued, “Given the location where the CAO has gone, I think that’s what presented the urgency in this particular matter. Had it been in any other location, I likely would not have any concerns whatsoever.”
For the next 13 minutes, the council continued their infighting on the need for the meeting.
Matt Garwood remarked, “We have spoken consistently about working together and trying to do better. Our residents expect that.”
Counc. Matt Garwood also stated, “Regardless of his next destination, it has been a true pleasure working with CAO Schmidt over the past two years, during which I’ve witnessed his exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication. Our community is undoubtedly stronger due to Mr. Schmidt’s invaluable contributions to Springwater over the past decade.”
After Council met behind closed doors for nearly 2 hours discussing the issue of CAO Schmidt decision to move to the City of Barrie. As a result of the meeting the council approved a motion that staff, report back to council on next steps on January 2, 2025.
Counc. Thompson stated to the NS Springwater reporter, “The drama the four counsellors are creating over this is irresponsible and unnecessary”.
Know your council and watch:
https://www.springwater.ca/en/township-hall/council-meeting-webcasts.aspx#