Alternative approval process

Some City decisions, such as adopting certain bylaws or borrowing funds, must be approved by voters before they can proceed. This approval can be obtained in one of two ways:

  1. an alternative approval process (AAP)
  2. assent voting (formerly known as a referendum), where voters are asked to vote for or against a proposal

What is the alternative approval process (AAP)?

An AAP allows eligible voters to formally object to the proposal. If fewer than 10 per cent of voters submit an objection, Council may proceed with the proposal without an assent vote.

AAPs are commonly used because they cost less than a referendum and still meet the legal need to seek public input.

The AAP process

The City publishes notice of the proposal in the local newspaper and provides an elector response form. Eligible voters then have at least 30 days to submit the form if they oppose the proposal.

  • If fewer than 10 per cent of eligible voters submit objections, Council may move forward.
  • If 10 per cent or more of eligible voters object within the deadline, the proposal must be approved through an assent vote before it can move forward.

Current AAPs

There are no active AAPs at this time.

Previous AAPs

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