City council has updated an ethics bylaw for council members, which addresses issues around those who run for provincial or federal politics and hires an integrity commissioner to investigate ethics complaints.
Council officially approved the code of ethical conduct for members of city council during its July 11 regular meeting by giving three unanimous readings to the document. Members had previously discussed this issue during a June executive committee meeting.
Members wanted the new bylaw to provide greater detail on what constitutes ethical behaviour, expand the complaint process, provide specific leave of absence provisions for members who pursue election at other political levels, and other matters that city administration considers appropriate.
While the previous code of ethics met the minimum requirements, it did not address areas such as gifts and benefits, councillor expenses, use of municipal assets and services, improper use of influence, employment of relatives, actions during election periods, and leaves of absence while running for provincial or federal politics.
Enhancing the policy provides council with greater clarity on these issues.
While there is no requirement to have an integrity commissioner (IC), using such a person to investigate and provide recommendations on ethics complaints is considered best practice since it ensures impartiality and independence.
Hiring an IC would ensure the person can impartially assess or investigate complaints and provide recommendations about sanctions while ensuring the public that the matter is being fairly addressed. Meanwhile, council would not be able to dismiss the IC except for cause.
The IC could address other areas such as providing advice and advance rulings and recommendations, preparing written materials about the IC’s role and obligations, delivering educational programs, and publishing an annual report.
City hall will use the services of an integrity commissioner only when an issue arises.
The next regular council meeting is Monday, July 25.
