The Municipality of the District of Shelburne (MODS) has failed to show a clear, transparent process on how they conduct public consultations. Now, with a new strategic planning underway, MODS admits the process is still undefined. Before asking for more public input, residents deserve a consultation framework that’s fair, accountable, and built to genuinely reflect community voices
I’ve been closely observing how the Municipality of the District of Shelburne (MODS) conducts its public consultations—and what I’ve seen raises serious concerns.
During the consultations for the Municipal Planning Strategy (MPS) and Land Use By-law (LUB), residents provided extensive input. Yet, I had to file a Freedom of Information request just to access that feedback. Why was this material hidden behind bureaucratic barriers? If MODS claims to value transparency, this practice directly contradicts that principle.
After reviewing the public submissions, it’s clear that while feedback was collected, it was largely ignored. The process appeared more performative than participatory.
When I raised these concerns with the CAO, I was told informally that MODS would “formalize” its consultation process in the future. That was then. Now, as we enter another round of public engagement—this time for strategic planning—I’ve asked again about the process. The CAO responded:
“At present, the planning process is only in its very early stages, and many of the details will continue to take shape as we move forward.”
This vague response is deeply troubling. It suggests MODS is once again asking residents to invest their time without offering a clear, accountable framework for how their input will be used. In plain terms: “We don’t have a process, but trust us anyway.”
That’s not good enough.
Before MODS asks the public to engage again, it must first prove that its consultation process is structured, impartial, and transparent. Anything less risks repeating the same cycle of ignored voices and eroded trust.
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