The City of Toronto’s attempt to push through legislation to ban t-shirt and other plastic bags provided at convenience and grocery stores was what is called in football “hurry up offense”. Characterized by a strategy when time is running out or the other side of the fence (the opposing team) is completely unready, the team immediately lines up (presents the vote) and plays the down (quick proposal and vote). Strategies like this where the opponent attempts to take advantage of others that are not fully informed or have not carefully thought of the consequences are not acceptable in public office. The first and foremost test should be have the councillors been properly informed with all the relevant and available information to assist in making a decision. At the very minimum, the large stakeholders should be consulted with to understand the sometimes, unintended consequences of decisions that are made hastily. Apparently, the largest city council in Canada managing Toronto affairs doesn’t operate this way.
