Integrity Commissioner

The Integrity Commissioner is an independent and impartial position reporting directly to Tay Valley Township Council.

The Integrity Commissioner carries out the following core functions:

Advisory

The Integrity Commissioner provides confidential written and oral advice to the Reeve, Councillors and Local Board (Restricted Definition) appointees about their own situations respecting the Code of Conduct for Members of Council and Local Boards and other by-laws, policies and procedures governing ethical behavior, including general advice about the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act.

The Integrity Commissioner also provides opinions and reports to Council and Local Boards (Restricted Definition), on issues of ethics and integrity.

Investigative

Complaints about breaches of the Code of Conduct are made to the Integrity Commissioner pursuant to the Council approved Complaint Protocol. Complaints can be dealt with through a formal or informal process. When carrying out a formal complaint investigation, the Commissioner can summon evidence and examine witnesses under oath.

Should the Integrity Commissioner find a contravention, he can recommend various penalties for imposition by Council. The available penalties range from suspension of remuneration to a reprimand or apology.

Educational

The Integrity Commissioner is responsible for providing educational programs to members of Council and Local Boards. This is carried out in group settings, one-on-one meetings, annual reporting and through this web page.

Code of Conduct for Council and Local Boards