Presentation link: https://prezi.com/view/ATf70ToR2IwhRcbaUg8N/
Trinela Cane, Commissioner, Corporate Services, introduced Charles Harnick, Q.C., from ADR Chambers Inc., Integrity Commissioner for the City of Markham, and Britt Parsons, J.D., Ombudsman, ADR Chambers Inc.
Mr. Harnick outlined the function of the City's Integrity Commissioner, what constitutes an investigable complaint by the City's Integrity Commissioner, the investigative process and the duty of confidentiality in the process, and the penalties that the Integrity Commission is legislated to recommend to Council if the Member of Council is found to have contravened the Code of Conduct.
Mr. Harnick discussed and answered questions related to sections of Markham City Council's Code of Conduct, including:
- Relations with Staff;
- Use of Social Media;
- Gifts & Benefits and reporting requirements;
- Improper use of influence;
- Use of City property, services and other resources;
- Confidentiality;
Mr. Harnick reviewed recent amendments to legislation relevant to Members of Council's duty to adhere to the Code of Conduct, including changes to the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act and the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.
Kimberley Kitteringham, City Clerk, reminded Members of Council about the established Code of Conduct Investigation Protocol.
Members of Council asked questions about whether certain actions would hypothetically be in contravention of the Code of Conduct and asked for feedback from Mr. Harnick about how to best avoid situations that could potentially put them in contravention of the Code of Conduct.