SEPT 7, 2024 - PLEASE SENT EMAIL to MINISTER CALANDRA

[ Date - Plse update ]

Paul Calandra

Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing

17th Floor, 777 Bay Street

Toronto, ON M7A 2J3

Paul.Calandra@pc.ola.org

Tel: (416) 585-7000

Fax: (416) 585-4230

Dear Minister Calandra:

Subject: Urgent Demand for the Release of the Integrity Commissioner's Report in Rideau Lakes Township

I am writing to express my deep frustration and concern over Rideau Lakes Council's ongoing refusal to release to the public an Integrity Commissioner's report concerning Councillor Linda Carr in contravention of the Municipal Act.  The issue was first raised at the August 12, 2024 Rideau Lakes meeting of the Township Council. The majority of council voted to receive the IC’s report but to take no further action. At the September 3rd meeting of Council a motion to reconsider was put on the floor but again the majority of Council voted to keep the IC report from the public by deferring the release of the report indefinitely because the majority of Council don’t agree with the experienced and well-respected IC’s findings and report.

This decision is a blatant disregard for the law and a serious breach of public trust. Each day that passes without the release of this report contributes to the erosion of public confidence in our democratic institutions and in this Council. It is imperative that Rideau Lakes Council is held accountable and that the process be as transparent as called for in the Municipal Act and the Township’s own by-laws.

I urge you to take immediate and decisive action to ensure that the Integrity Commissioner's report is made public without further delay.

Additionally, I would like to request that you consider implementing the following reforms to address the recognized flaws in the current legislation: 

Binding Penalties: Make the penalties imposed by Integrity Commissioners binding, eliminating the council's ability to overrule them. This will ensure that Integrity Commissioners can effectively hold elected officials accountable for their misconduct. 

Direct Submission to the Ministry: Require Integrity Commissioners to submit a copy of their reports directly to the Ministry, ensuring public access regardless of council decisions. This will prevent councils from obstructing the release of reports and undermining public trust. 

These reforms are essential to strengthen the Integrity Commissioner system and maintain the public trust. By addressing any flaws in the legislation, we can ensure that Integrity Commissioners have the necessary tools and authority to investigate, without interference, and address complaints of misconduct effectively. 

Thank you for your prompt action on this matter. 

Sincerely,

[ Name - Plse update ]

[ Address - Please update ]