Matheson’s top staffer wants provincial review

BLACK RIVER-MATHESON – Following mounting criticism from some residents, Matheson’s top staffer is calling for a provincial review.

CAO Chris Wray is asking council to write to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MMAH) to request a review of the township’s financial and administrative practices, policies and procedures. 

The item was deferred at the Sept. 9 Matheson council meeting. There was no discussion on it.

According to the report, the initiative stems from ongoing criticism directed at the township by some residents via community Facebook pages. Wray said these criticisms have included accusations of fraud, favouritism and general mismanagement.

The criticism intensified when a controversial 34.2 per cent budget increase was approved in 2023.

In response to the tax hike, Wray said a group of residents turned to social media to express their dissatisfaction. 

SEE: Black River-Matheson Township council approves 34% budget hike
RELATED: Frustrated Matheson residents turn to province for help

The situation escalated with a petition, signed by about 1,200 residents and presented to the Ontario Legislature on Oct. 24, 2023. The petition was subsequently forwarded to the MMAH.

Black River-Matheson is a township in the Cochrane District of Ontario, east of Timmins and north of Kirkland Lake. For more on the financial pressures facing Canadian municipalities, read Municipalities: A Taxing Problem. (CLICK TO ENLARGE.)

In March, residents held a meeting to talk about the ongoing issues in the township. About 150 people attended, including Timiskaming-Cochrane MPP John Vanthof.

SEE: 'We want our town back': Ongoing issues bring Matheson residents together

In his report, Wray highlights that many criticisms have been unfounded and defamatory, described as "gaslighting" in the document. 

Wray said the township has adhered to its bylaws and policies, conducted annual audits and implemented various improvements based on previous reviews.

Comparing the situation to a similar case in Fauquier-Strickland, where a petition led to a provincial review of financial and administrative practices, the report suggests that a similar review for Black River-Matheson could provide valuable insights and improvements.

The report can be read here.

Marissa Lentz-McGrath is a Local Journalism Initiative Reporter with Timmins Today. Title image: iStock.