Provincial legislation to provide ‘critical tools’ in dealing with rogue councillors: Pickering mayor

Ontario Municipalities have been calling for updated codes of conduct to address workplace harassment, as well as stricter penalties for those who violate the rules – including removal from office – for years now.

If provincial legislation introduced this week earns approval – with a majority government that result seems inevitable – cities like Pickering, which has been asking for stronger powers to deal with rogue councillors and repeated Code of Conduct violators, may finally have the weapons to deal with the problem.

The introduction of the Municipal Accountability Act marks a “pivotal step” in strengthening governance and public trust in municipalities across Ontario, said Pickering Mayor Kevin Ashe, who applauded Municipal Affairs Minister Paul Calandra for “listening to the concerns of municipalities and introducing much-needed reforms to enhance accountability and transparency.”

This legislation would provide “critical tools” for municipalities to address misconduct and uphold the integrity of their institutions,” Ashe said in a press release released Friday.

“Key measures, such as standardized codes of conduct, expanded powers for integrity commissioners, and stronger enforcement mechanisms, will ensure councils are better equipped to respond to disruptive and potentially harmful behaviours. These changes reflect the importance of maintaining public confidence in municipal leadership and preserving the collaborative environment necessary for effective governance.”

With controversial councillor Lisa Robinson expected to be sanctioned – for the fourth time – at Monday’s council meeting, the timing of the impending provincial legislation seemed appropriate.

Pickering Mayor Kevin Ashe

“Municipalities across Ontario have faced challenges when existing accountability mechanisms proved insufficient to address actions that violate codes of conduct, undermine public trust, and interfere with core municipal government responsibilities. These gaps have consumed valuable resources and diverted attention from the essential work of delivering services and fostering vibrant, thriving communities. The Municipal Accountability Act directly addresses these issues by closing accountability loopholes and empowering councils to act decisively when governance is threatened.”

“By prioritizing transparency, professionalism, and ethical leadership, this legislation ensures municipalities remain focused on serving their residents with dedication and integrity. The City of Pickering remains committed to fostering an inclusive and collaborative environment where the well-being of the community is always the top priority.”

Calandra said that removal and disqualification could only happen if the municipal integrity commissioner recommends it, if Ontario’s integrity commissioner agrees and if councillors except for the member in question unanimously agree to it in a vote.