What is a Closed Session?

In Ontario, Councils of a municipality can convene in closed sessions (private meetings) for specific reasons outlined in Section 239 of the Municipal Act, 2001. These reasons typically include:



- Personal matters

- Litigation or potential litigation

- Advice subject to solicitor-client privilege

- Negotiations

- Matters that could reveal confidential information



The purpose of closed sessions is to allow Councils to discuss sensitive matters that require privacy and confidentiality while still ensuring transparency and accountability in the decision-making process. Council typically cannot vote within a closed session unless to direct Staff. Any motions discussed in a closed session are forwarded and voted on in an open session.



Deliberations within closed sessions must remain on-topic and cannot be shared outside the meeting. Closed sessions are only convened as allowed by the Municipal Act.