Maurice Brenner A-
It’s not possible to create a definitive report card with letter grades (A, B, C, D, F) for a city councillor as performance evaluation is subjective and varies depending on the perspective of a constituent. However, a summary of his career and recent activities can be presented.
Subject Grades
- Longevity and Experience: A
Maurice Brenner has served as a councillor for Ward 1 for ten terms, with a political career spanning over four decades. He was first elected in 1985 and has held various council roles, including serving as Acting Mayor and Deputy Mayor. His long-standing presence on the council suggests a high level of experience and commitment to the community.
- Community Involvement and Recognition: A
Brenner has been recognized for his community advocacy and involvement. He is a recipient of both the Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Award and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Award. He has held positions as Chair of PARA Marine Search and Rescue and the Durham Advisory Committee on Homelessness, and is a member of several other committees, including the Durham Region Transit Executive Committee and the Durham Region Roundtable on Climate Change.
- Stance on Council Conduct: B
Brenner has been an outspoken advocate for decorum and accountability on the council. He was a key figure in a motion seeking a public inquiry into the conduct of another councillor. This action, which was supported by a 6-1 council vote, demonstrates his effort to address issues of council disruption and hate speech. However, the situation led to a “chaotic” council meeting and required a police presence, indicating that these efforts, while supported, faced significant public opposition from some factions.
- Political Challenges: C
Brenner has faced challenges in his political career, including unsuccessful mayoral campaigns in 2010 and 2014 against Dave Ryan. While he won his council seat in a 2016 by-election and was re-elected in 2018 and 2022, his mayoral runs resulted in significant vote deficits.
