Ontario’s municipal integrity commissioner system is under scrutiny, with experts calling it a costly and unregulated “Wild West.” Introduced in 2019 to ensure accountability in all 444 municipalities, the system aims to address conflicts of interest and misconduct. However, critics, including political scientist Dax D’Orazio, argue it has become a “cash cow” for firms dominating the space, while taxpayers foot excessive bills for investigations.
Former Ottawa integrity commissioner Robert Marleau estimates cases can cost municipalities upwards of $30,000 each, citing a lack of oversight and standardized procedures. For example, taxpayers in Elliot Lake spent nearly $858,000 over four years on integrity-related expenses.
Key recommendations from integrity commissioners and experts include:
- A centralized or regional oversight system.
- Mandatory training for commissioners and municipal staff.
- A single, standardized code of conduct.
- Improved financial disclosures and reporting mechanisms.
While some commissioners defend their roles, they agree the current system is flawed, with limited enforcement powers and questionable appointments. Experts urge the province to step in with reforms to curb conflicts of interest and restore trust in municipal governance.
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