Last night, Town Council received the final report from Integrity Officer Robert J. Swayze into a complaint submitted by MP Terence Young on April 14, 2011. Mr. Swayze concluded that there was no improper use of influence and town resources, and that sanctions against Mayor Rob Burton are unwarranted.
“I am satisfied with the process and accept the findings in the Integrity Officer’s report,” said Mayor Rob Burton. “I also welcome Mr. Swayze’s suggestion to poll Council ahead of any future meeting changes to ensure a majority of Council are in agreement.”
On the complaint over the improper use of influence and town resources, the Integrity Officer found “that there were no media releases or other statements issued by the Town relating to the federal election.” Additionally, the report notes that Mr. Swayze found “no evidence of any Councillor or staff member working on the federal election or otherwise participating in it, contrary to their duty to the Town.”
In reference to the allegation that Mayor Burton cancelled Council and Committee meetings during the election period to assist Councillor Khan in his bid for federal election, the Integrity Officer said the cancellation was not of any benefit to Mayor Burton “either materially or politically and I cannot entertain recommending to Council any sanctions against the Mayor.”
Under the town’s Integrity Officer Procedure, any member of the public can request an investigation into possible violations of Council’s Code of Conduct, but it is up to Council to direct that such an investigation take place.
On May 16, 2011, Council directed the Integrity Officer to investigate two of the allegations detailed in the April 14th complaint filed by MP Young. The cost of the investigation by the Integrity Officer was $11,600.
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