At its meeting Monday night, town council passed a motion to retain an expert in the field to lead a public process, develop options and make final recommendations on the boundaries.

The review comes at the request of council and is to be completed prior to the 2010 election.

While council also had the option to ask staff to look at the number of town council members, many councillors around the table said they think the current size of 11 members is appropriate.

The councillors went on to voice support for the boundary review, with the exception of Wards 2 and 4 Councillor Colin Best, who said it's premature in light of the Sustainable Halton planning process that's underway.

Sustainable Halton will ultimately help guide the extensive population growth called for in the Province's Places to Grow plan, but Best pointed out the final options from the process won't be known until after the ward boundary review is done.

Council also heard from Milton resident Mike Grimwood on the issue, who said he thinks the ward boundary review is absolutely necessary. He suggested having three public open houses on the issue later this year and early next year. At this point, Town staff is suggesting two open houses in January 2009, in addition to other public consultation this fall.

A final report with recommendations on the boundaries is expected to go before council in March 2009.

Council approved earmarking up to $40,000 for the review, with the funds coming from the capital reserve fund.