Getting hitched at Amherstburg town hall only a motion away

If Amherstburg councillors say “I do” then the town could start offering civil marriage ceremonies as early as next year.

The question will be popped at Monday’s council meeting when Nicole Rubli, the town’s manager of licensing and enforcement, gives a report on the proposed service.

LaSalle, Leamington, Lakeshore, Essex, Kingsville and Windsor all offer civil marriage ceremonies.

Rubli said the cost for a civil service would be $250 plus HST. There would be an additional $100 cost for a ceremony outside of regular office hours.

Saturday services will be offered based on staff availability.

If approved, town clerk Paula Parker, deputy clerk Tammy Fowkes and Rubli will serve as officiants for the municipality. “I think it’s cool,” Rubli said. She noted that the $250 price is in line with other municipalities. A marriage licence is an additional $117.

Town administration is recommending services be conducted in council chambers or at Kings Navy Yard Park if its available for rental.

“With all the plans for development, I’m hoping in the future we could expand on the locations we offer,” Rubli said.

Rubli anticipates the town would host an average of 25 civil services per year.

Leamington saw 45 ceremonies performed in 2016 and has held 40 to date in 2017. The town started offering civil marriage ceremonies in 2004 and saw a high-water mark of 57 held in 2005.

Kingsville has held 65 services since the town started offering them in 2013, including 19 so far this year.

Lakeshore added the amenity in 2015 and has conducted 33 services to date, including 14 this year.

LaSalle started offering civil services in May 2016. The town conducted 19 that year and 14 so far this year.