What is a task force?
A task force is a temporary group that Council creates to look into a specific issue or problem. Unlike standing committees, task forces have a clear end date and a focused job. Once they finish their work and hand in a final report, the task force is disbanded.
How does Council create a task force?
Council decides to create a task force by passing a motion. The motion will include:
- The goal of the task force.
- The deadline for the final report.
- Who can serve on the group.
- How the task force will report back to Council.
This process follows the Delegation of Powers and Duties Policy.
Who can be a member?
Task forces usually include a mix of:
- City Councillors.
- Residents who have relevant experience or knowledge.
- Subject-matter experts or staff from city departments.
Resident appointments are made through the Appointment of Council Committees Policy. We encourage people from all neighbourhoods to apply.
How does the task force work?
The task force will hold meetings to discuss the issue. They may hold public hearings or community events to get feedback from residents. All meetings follow the Community Engagement Policy to make sure everyone has a fair chance to share their views.
Members must sign a Conflict of Interest Policy declaration. If a member has a personal interest in a topic, they must step out of the room when it is discussed.
How does a task force end?
When the task force finishes its work, it hands a final report to Council. The report will include findings and recommendations. Council will then decide what to do with the recommendations.
At that point, the task force is officially disbanded. If Council wants the work to continue, it can pass a motion to extend the deadline or create a new task force.
Need more information?
For details on how to apply or for questions about current task forces, contact the Council meeting support team at Contact Council Meeting Support.