Mayor Lou Maieron says a new code of conduct for councillors should be put off until a new chief administration officer can provide input on the policy – but the rest of council disagrees.
Clerk Kathryn Ironmonger suggested the new policy, developed by retired town manager Lisa Hass, be delayed until Hass’ replacement is found. Maieron, who expressed concern with some of the items included in the draft policy – though he did not specifically identify them – supported Ironmonger’s suggestion.
“This has implications,” Maieron said of the new policy. He added the new CAO should have some input into the policy, although council could discuss the document in the meantime.
Councillor Barb Tocher said there is no reason council could not pass the policy now and later make changes deemed necessary by the new CAO.
“It could be a lengthy time before the CAO is replaced,” said Tocher.
“I’m not sure I’m comfortable putting it off.”
The rest of council obviously agreed, as a resolution to delay the policy’s passage was defeated 4-1, with only Maieron in favour. Council then passed another resolution to address the policy at the next staff-council meeting.
The ten-page policy aims to “enhance public confidence that the town’s elected and appointed representatives operate from a base of integrity, justice and courtesy.”
In addition to council, it also applies to boards and advisory committees. The policy includes about 20 sections in total, including obligations, confidential information, use of town resources and discreditable conduct.
In her June 26 report Hass recommended council “put this policy in place in a timely manner.”
