Accountability and Transparency

The Town believes that transparency and accountability are essential to the functioning of local government. That’s why we follow clear rules and processes to ensure public trust.

Why are some meetings closed to the public?

While most Council and Committee meetings are open to the public, there are some exceptions. Meetings can be held in private (closed sessions) when sensitive matters are being discussed, such as:

• Legal matters involving the municipality;
• Land purchases or sales;
• Labour relations or employee negotiations.

Closed meetings are only used when absolutely necessary and are strictly regulated under Section 239 of the Municipal Act, 2001.

Code of Conduct:

Adopted in 2019, the Code of Conduct applies to all members of Goderich Town Council, as well as committee and local board members.

It sets expectations for ethical behaviour and guides members on how to act responsibly when doing Town business. It also helps protect the Town’s reputation and ensures that Council members are held to high standards.

Making a Complaint:

Anyone can file a complaint if they believe a Council member has broken the Code of Conduct.

How to Submit a Complaint:

1. Fill out a sworn/affirmed affidavit.
2. Submit the form to the Integrity Commissioner listed below or to the Clerk. 
3. If submitted to the Clerk, the complaint will be passed on to the Integrity Commission without comment. 

Note: Town employees, Council members, or Council itself may submit complaints without using the affidavit, but must include the same type of information.

All complaints are kept confidential unless disclosure is required by law. 

Disclosure of Statement for Gifts or Benefits:

Under By-Law 19 of 2019, Council members must disclose any gifts or benefits they receive in connection with their role.

If a gift is accepted, the member must complete a Disclosure Statement and submit it to the Clerk by March 31 each year. This information is part of the public record.

Integrity Commissioner, Closed Meeting Investigator, and Ombudsman

The Town has appointed Aird & Berlis LLP as our:

• Integrity Commissioner
• Closed Meeting Investigator
• Ombudsman 

The role of the Integrity Commissioner is to help ensure that Council performs their functions in accordance with a Code of Conduct, and other procedures, rules, or policies governing their ethical behaviour.

Contact Information:

Aird & Berlis LLP
Suite 1800, 181 Bay Street
Toronto, ON  M5J 2T9

Primary Contacts:

• For Members/Staff: (For training, consultations, and written advice to members)
  • John Mascarin
    • Telephone: 416-865-7721
    • Email: jmascarin@airdberlis.com
    • Administrative Assistant: Katie MacDonald - 416.865.7789, Ext. 3169

• For the Public: (For Code of Conduct complaints and Municipal Conflict of Interest Act applications)
  • Meghan Cowan
    • Telephone: 416-865-4722
    • Email: mcowan@airdberlis.com
    • Administrative Assistant: Megan Stevens  - 416-865-7789, Ext. 2528

• For the Public: (For closed meeting investigation requests and ombudsman complaints)
  • John Mascarin
    • Telephone: 416-865-7721
    • Email: jmascarin@airdberlis.com
    • Administrative Assistant: Katie MacDonald - 416-865-7789, Ext. 3169