The Town of The Blue Mountains announces the launch of a new Lobbyist Registry designed to enhance accountability and transparency. This tool will provide insights into lobbying activities directed towards Town Council and staff by individuals or organizations.
Following approval at the Town Council Meeting on November 12, 2024, the Lobbyist Registry is in effect and live on the Town website: www.thebluemountains.
The registry fosters accountability and transparency by publicly listing the names of lobbyists, their affiliations, lobbying objectives, and the Town officials lobbied. Lobbyists must register within ten days following any interaction with a public official, falling into one of these categories:
- Consultant Lobbyists: Individuals engaged to lobby for a client on a paid basis
- In-House Lobbyists: Individuals lobbying on behalf of their employer
- Voluntary Unpaid Lobbyists: Individuals lobbying for themselves or an organization without compensation
On Tuesday, November 26, 2024, the Town’s Lobbyist Registrar, Principles Integrity, will provide training for Council, staff and the public, outlining the requirements under the Lobbyist Registry Bylaw. The agenda for the meeting was released on Thursday, November 21, 2024.
In addition to the public training session, the Town has created a frequently asked questions webpage to provide additional information regarding the lobbyist registry, including who is considered a lobbyist, what activities are considered lobbying, how to register and how to report lobbying activities.
“The launch of the Lobbyist Registry demonstrates Council’s commitment to accountability and transparency,” explained Mayor Andrea Matrosovs. “The registry will ensure that our community is informed about who is influencing local decisions thereby fostering greater trust and openness in our decision-making processes.”
To learn more about the lobbyist registry, including enforcement measures, or to subscribe for updates, please visit: www.thebluemountains.
