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Tuesday night’s Cambridge city council meeting will now be held online “to ensure a safe and respectful environment,” the city said Monday afternoon.
This decision follows what the city described as an “incident” on Monday involving a disruptive member of the public. The city hasn’t shared any more details about what happened.
Const. Brad Hickey, a spokesperson for Waterloo Regional Police Service, explained that officers weren’t called to city hall but police were notified about a threatening voicemail left by someone in the community. Security reported placing city hall in hold and secure around noon on Monday.
The individual involved has been issued a trespass notice for all city properties and, according to Hickey, “there are no grounds for any criminal charges at this time.”
The city confirmed Tuesday’s meeting will proceed as scheduled at 6:30 p. m., and folks can watch it live on the city’s You Tube channel.
“The city is taking proactive steps to ensure a safe and respectful environment for council, staff, and community members,” the city said in its statement.
People who planned to address councillors during the meeting will still have their chance to participate online.
As of Tuesday morning, there were 11 speakers lined up for Tuesday night’s session expected to discuss a motion by Coun. Scott Hamilton asking staff to report back on whether homeless people are moved during extreme weather events.
This shift comes shortly after the announcement last week that all bags brought into city hall would be subject to security checks starting Tuesday.
“This measure is about ensuring council meetings remain both safe and welcoming for everyone,” Jennifer Shaw, acting director of the city clerk’s office, said in a statement.
“Public participation is vital to local government. This approach enhances security while keeping meetings open and accessible. Clear signage and notices will guide attendees through the new process.”
The city added these security steps match those used by other Canadian municipalities. Anyone bringing purses, backpacks, briefcases or similar bags should expect them to be checked when entering city hall.
