Lengthy debate at county council over investigator services

Essex County Civic Centre.

There was a lengthy debate at county council last week on whether or not the county should send out a Request for Proposal (RFP) to obtain the services of a new closed meeting investigator.

Clerk Katherine Hebert brought forth a report noting the current provider will no longer be available and gave council the option of replacing the investigator or having the service done by the Ontario Ombudsman office.

“The county has rarely needed this service, only once in 2009 when the investigation proved that no wrongdoing was found,” said Hebert.

Under provincial legislation, the county and all municipalities must have an investigator. The county has been using Local Authority Services and paying a retainer of $250 per year. It was noted at the meeting that six-of-the-seven local municipalities opt to go with the Ombudsman, forgoing any applicable costs.

“By law, the county must have an investigation or the Ombudsman of Ontario is automatically in that role,” said Hebert.

A lengthy debate followed on whether or not the county should put out a RFP for a new investigator, or have the Ombudsman provide the service at no charge.

“It’s money the taxpayers may not want us to spend,” said Amherstburg Mayor Michael Prue.

Prue was one of five of 14 who voted into going with the Ombudsman and cited not only the cost but the fact that he believes residents feel empowered by having the Ontario Ombudsman do it.

“I’m not sure the public will have the same sentiment if we choose someone. I’m inclined to go with the Ombudsman.”

Amherstburg Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb wanted more information on how quickly the Ombudsman can bring back any reports, as compared to an independent provider.

“I don’t like the idea of spending money on this and if we can get the province to pay for it, that’s not bad either but justice delayed is justice denied,” said Gibb.

Gibb voted to have county administration go through the procurement process of seeking out a new investigator.

Lakeshore Mayor Tracey Bailey was in favour of seeking out a new investigator.

“We are coming into unusual times, strong mayors’ powers I think will be seen a little more as we move into the future. I think this is money well spent.”

Lengthy debate at county council over investigator services

By Fred Groves