The Resolution
A recent resolution passed by Morden City Council has brought changes to the composition of the city’s Police Board, prompting conversation among council members at June’s public meeting. At the heart of the resolution: a new board chair, changes to city representation on the board, and discussions around the timing of the move.
Mayor Nancy Penner explained the context behind the decision, following Monday night’s council meeting. “The resolution read that Rich Harris would be appointed to the police board as chair,” she said. “Additionally, the city manager and the deputy mayor were named as the city’s representatives on the board.”
According to Penner, the timing of the decision was influenced by significant shifts within the board’s leadership. “With the resignation of Chief Brad Neduzak and also the resignation of the police board chair Lee Bassett, it felt like the right time to make some changes,” she said.
Finding a new board chair
The city had opened applications to the public to fill the two community positions on the board. Rich Harris, whose application was selected, accepted Penner’s request to serve as board chair. Penner said the addition of a city staff member — in this case, the city manager — brings Morden more in line with how some other communities structure their police boards. The deputy mayor will serve as the second city representative.
Concerns brought forward
Councillor Klassen and Councillor Maddock expressed concern during Monday’s meeting, particularly regarding the removal of existing members and the loss of continuity during an important transitional period, specifically the hiring of a new police chief. Councillors Brenda Klassen and Gordon Maddock, who were previously on the board, had completed training in preparation for the hiring process and voiced disappointment at the sudden change.
Gratitude to former members for their service and response
“I met with both Councillor Klassen and Councillor Maddock prior to the meeting,” said Penner. “I thanked them for their excellent leadership and hard work. It wasn’t a surprise to them, and I always encourage open discussion at the council table.”
Penner acknowledged the concerns about consistency and the timing of the changes, but said the decision was not made lightly. “Sometimes decisions aren’t easy to make or easy to accept, but change does happen,” she said. “And in this case, with a new chair and board members, it was important to have a staff voice on the board moving forward.”
It was questioned whether city staff should serve on what is meant to be a community board. Penner said that it may be open for debate, but might not be resolved fully.
“There are still two community members and one provincially appointed member on the board, so I think there’s a good mix there,” she said.
What comes next for hiring a new chief?
As for what comes next, Penner said the process of hiring a new police chief will be in the hands of the newly formed police board. “We'll let the board regroup and reorganize, and they’ll go forward and do what they have to do,” she said.
Related stories:
- ‘It’s that time’: Chief Brad Neduzak of Morden Police Service announces retirement
- Morden Police Board looks for public opinion to set police priorities
A call for unity
Penner closed by reaffirming the need for unity and purpose as the city moves forward. “At the end of the day, Council needs to work as a unified body. We’re all here to serve the community and our ratepayers — and that remains the priority.”
A recorded vote
A four-to-three recorded vote in favour of the resolution was passed June 30th, 2025.
Response from councillors
Councillor Klassen submitted this statement when requested following the meeting, “I was able to share my perspective in council at the public meeting but am not able to discuss further. I respect the outcome of the vote. Respectful debate and freedom to vote with our own conscience is a sign of democracy at work. I encourage the public to attend council meetings and hear discussion firsthand.”
Councillor Maddock declined further comment.