West Grey council is directing staff to bring forward a bylaw to authorize civil marriage services by the municipality.
During a meeting on April 4, council received a report from Clerk and Director of Legislated Services Jamie Eckenswiller. It recommended staffing bringing forward the bylaw and to amend some fees and charges to include costs for civil marriage ceremonies during and after business hours.
The report says under the 1990 Marriage Act, municipalities are allowed to offer civil marriage solemnization services and charge fees deemed appropriate.
Staff recommend a fee of $295 for civil marriage services occurring during regular business hours, and $395 for those taking place after-hours.
Eckenswiller says they could offer the service at the municipal building or at a location the couple chooses.
Coun. Geoffrey Shea says, “I think this could be a really nice beneficial service to the community if done right.”
The couple getting married will be responsible for covering the travel costs of the officiant.
“By offering marriage solemnization services, the municipality will create an additional revenue stream while responding to a demand for a service that the municipality does not currently offer. It should be noted that civil marriages offered by the municipality are non-denominational with no religious affiliation,” says the report.