Public and politicians raise concerns over strong mayor directive to appoint new department director, reorganize department

Robert Washburn August 29, 2025 1 min read

Victoria Hall and Town of Cobourg Administration Offices. By: Dan Jones

By Dan Jones LJI
Northumberland 89.7 FM

In a sometimes emotional meeting, Cobourg councillors expressed concerns and raised questions over a restructuring of the town’s planning department at a special session of Cobourg Council on August 25.

Mayor Lucas Cleveland appointed a development director to a new department using his strong mayor powers. Councillors asked for details regarding the appointment, while others supported the move to expedite development.

Cleveland defended his directive, citing his strong mayor powers, and stated that the person in charge of the department is more than competent in leading development.

However, the town’s lawyer, John Mascarin, told councillors there is nothing the public or politicians can do to stop or block the move, as the mayor is responsible for the town’s organizational structure.