LAURIE WEIR
The Sept. 3 decision by the Rideau Lakes council to seek a third-party investigation into an Integrity Commissioner’s (IC) report, while keeping the report confidential, represents a crucial balancing act between transparency and fairness.
Council voted 7-1 in favour of pursuing an external review, potentially involving MMP assistance or an Ombudsman. This decision comes during ongoing debates about whether to publicly disclose the report’s contents against Coun. Linda Carr, which include the nature of the complaint, the complainant’s identity, and the timeline of events.
Mayor Arie Hoogenboom has highlighted the difficulties in judging a fellow councillor’s behaviour and has called for legislative reforms to address these challenges. His stance reflects a broader concern about the limitations of the current system and the need for legislative improvements.
Coun. Paula Banks has been vocal in her criticism, advocating for an external review due to procedural delays. However, her conduct during the council meeting, including heckling and disruptive behaviour, detracts from the seriousness of the discussion. Effective governance requires respectful dialogue and professionalism, particularly when addressing sensitive issues.
In contrast, Coun. Joan Delaney and Coun. Ron Pollard contributed valuable perspectives. Delaney raised concerns about second-guessing an impartial legal expert, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the integrity of the process. Her comments underscore the need to respect the role of the Integrity Commissioner and to avoid undermining the authority of professionals who are appointed to uphold the standards of governance.
Pollard’s reflections on honouring the higher levels of government and his belief that the report would likely be unremarkable if made public offer a pragmatic view of the situation. His approach highlights a willingness to engage with the process and a focus on maintaining respect for established procedures.
Coun. Jeff Banks wants to delay the report’s release and involve MPPs to protect the council’s leverage and push for legislative changes. While his experience and concerns are valid, prioritizing strategic maneuvering over transparency risks undermining public trust. Balancing these interests is essential for maintaining confidence in local governance.
As the council moves forward, its members must present a unified front. The decision to seek an external review should be seen as a collective effort to ensure fairness and uphold the integrity of the process, rather than as a means to undermine any single member. This is an opportunity for the council to demonstrate its commitment to a fair and transparent resolution, while also safeguarding the reputation of all involved.
Let’s hope this move gets the minister’s attention with a positive result.