Posted June 16, 2021
In a 9-6 vote, City Councillors in today's General Issues Committee approved a crucial motion directing staff to draft a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Metrolinx to implement LRT in Hamilton.
We are one major step closer to securing LRT for Hamilton. The next big vote will be later this summer to approve the MOU, but let's take a moment to reflect on what has been achieved.
Have no doubt: this would not be possible without your dedication and resilience for such a long time. Even as they debated today, Councillors cited the deluge of statements they have received from constituents who support LRT.
You made your voices heard, and Council could not ignore the message.
Voting in favour of the motion were: Mayor Fred Eisenberger, Ward 1 Councillor Maureen Wilson, Ward 2 Councillor Jason Farr, Ward 3 Councillor Nrinder Nann, Ward 4 Councillor Sam Merulla, Ward 7 Councillor Esther Pauls, Ward 8 Councillor John-Paul Danko, Ward 12 (Ancaster) Councillor Lloyd Ferguson, and Ward 13 (Dundas) Councillor Arlene VanderBeek.
Voting against the motion were: Ward 5 Councillor Chad Collins, Ward 6 Councillor Tom Jackson, Ward 9 Councillor Brad Clark, Ward 10 Councillor Maria Pearson, Ward 11 Councillor Brenda Johnson, and Ward 15 Councillor Judi Partridge.
Next week, this vote will go to full council to be ratified, but this is expected to be merely a formality.
Thank you!
Thank you for continuing to engage forcefully but respectfully with our leaders and inspiring them to do the right thing.
As we said, this is not the end, of course, and there will still be the next big vote this summer to approve the MOU, but for today, take a bow for what you accomplished. LRT is one step closer to being back on track!
