Hamilton officials vote to end free meals for city councillors

Hamilton city councillors overwhelmingly vote in favour of ending free meals for council members at City Hall Monday.

The motion – presented by Ward 9 Councillor Brad Clark and seconded by Ward 8 Councillor Rob Cooper – passed 15 – zero.

The amendment to the budget points out how the city employs 9,000 people who manage to bring or buy their own lunches daily.

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It also mentions how elected members and senior leadership are all on the Sunshine List – meaning they earn at least $100,000 yearly.

The motion was initially presented at City Hall on Feb. 6 by Councillor Clark. Mayor Andrea Horwath had the motion deferred so all concerns could be addressed.

It was determined that by eliminating meals for city councillors, the city budget would be reduced by $25,780.

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