A Sarnia councillor says the city's newly adopted caregiver policy is a "slap in the face to the taxpayers" and is the "epitome of political entitlement."
Bill Dennis is reacting to Monday's passing of the document, which provides councillors with compensation for childcare expenses incurred during meetings.
Dennis said it's a slippery slope, noting others aren't afforded the same opportunity.
He called on council to reject the implementation.
"City staff sure don't have that luxury of free babysitting," said Dennis. "Remember, when I proposed the dress code, there were a number of councillors that thought perhaps it might even be expanded to committees. This is a slippery slope and possibly a gateway proposition that could easily lead to substantial tax increases."
Dave Boushy was the only councillor to agree with Dennis.
"The councillors get paid, they can afford to get someone to look after their babies while they're at a council meeting," said Boushy. "Otherwise it could expand and expand and before we know it there are babies at city hall. It doesn't look good from the public point of view."
Councillor Mike Stark said he couldn't support Dennis' motion, noting Sarnia is in the bottom third in Ontario in terms of remuneration for a city of our size.
"So, I don't think the argument about being paid is relevant," said Stark. "I think the issue is quite simply anti-female. [Dennis' motion] is an anti-female motion and I cannot support in any way, shape or form this sexist type of a motion."
Councillor Brian White said the policy will entice more people to enter politics.
"My adult child is still one with disabilities," said White. "I certainly can't predict, some days, what the needs of that particular child will be. So, speaking now through that lens, I can tell you that sometimes the challenges are significant. There's nothing that I would love more than to be in two places at the same time. If I have to choose, it's going to be family first every single time. Does that prevent me from serving my community? In some cases it's going to. That doesn't mean that I shouldn't have a voice on this council, and it doesn't mean that I should choose to not serve for the next four years because of what might be."
Caregivers will be eligible up to a maximum of the rate equivalent to the minimum wage.
Care expenses for those with exceptional needs incurred to attend official meetings will be eligible up to a maximum of $40 per hour.
Mayor Mike Bradley and councillor Nathan Colquhoun were both absent from Monday's meeting.
