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Think council needs to strengthen its Code of Conduct? Ontario wants to hear from you

The online survey is open until July 15
USED 2019-05-14 Good Morning3 MH
Maija Hoggett/TimminsToday

The province is looking for feedback on how to strengthen municipal codes of conduct. 

A 90-day consultation period is underway for people to provide input on how to strengthen accountability for municipal council members. Feedback is also being collected on the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) recommendations for councils, according to the provincial announcement.

The Municipal Act requires municipalities to have a code of conduct for councillors and certain local boards as well as access to an integrity commissioner.

To strengthen accountability measures for council members, associate Minister of Children and Women's Issues Jill Dunlop is holding roundtables with municipal stakeholders.

"We will not tolerate workplace harassment or discrimination of any kind," said Dunlop in an April 14 news release. "It's critical that everyone knows there are accountability measures in place for members who violate municipal codes of conduct. Our consultation will help determine what changes, if any, are required to ensure everyone can feel safe and respected in the workplace."

AMO's recommendations for holding municipal councillors accountable include increased financial penalties, suspensions for certain violations, removal from office in certain circumstances, and better training and standards for integrity commissioners. 

"Municipal councils are looking for new tools and new measures to address modern challenges in local government," said Graydon Smith, AMO president, in the news release. "Where there are serious code of conduct violations, municipal councils need the authority to take actions that are measured, appropriate and effective."

Comments can be made through the online survey by July 15.

 Anyone can participate. The province is also encouraging municipalities to provide official feedback through the online survey.