CITY HALL – Mayor banned from closed committee meetings in latest sanction

Council Resolutions from the May 28, 2024, Closed Council Meeting

PURSUANT TO MINISTERIAL ADVISOR HENRY BRAUN’S REPORT, including his findings that:

“The Mayor has not exhibited a clear understanding of his role and its limitation – as evidenced by interactions with Council, staff and the community.”
(Top Challenge No. 11 – Misinterpretation of Roles, at page 10);

“The Mayor’s actions and statements suggest a significant underestimation of the implications of his behaviour, including potential legal and reputational damage to the council and the City.”
(Top Challenge No. 5 – Lack of Awareness of Potential Consequences, at page 9);

“The Mayor has made a number of public statements and allegations, particularly in media interviews, that could be harmful and potentially legally damaging to the City.” (Top Challenge No. 13 – Statements to the Public, at page 10);

“The Mayor has admitted to sharing privileged information outside of Closed meetings, disregarding the confidentiality protocols and risking legal repercussions.”
(Top Challenge No. 10 – Ignoring Confidentiality Protocols, at page 10);

AND IN LIGHT OF Mayor Hamer-Jackson’s numerous privacy breaches;

AND IN LIGHT OF Mayor Hamer-Jackson’s refusal to commit to complying with Municipal Advisor Henry Braun’s recommendations, including that he:

“Dedicate sufficient time to comprehend written communications, reports and official documents, which will allow well-informed decisions.”
(Recommendation No. 2 to Mayor – Improve Understanding of Official Documents, at page 11);

“Adhering strictly to confidentiality agreements and council protocols would prevent potential legal issues and protect the integrity of council proceedings.” (Recommendation No. 2 to Mayor – Respect Confidentiality and Protocols, at page 11);

“Enroll in workshops or seminars focused on enhancing leadership, conflict resolutions, and communication skills.”
(Recommendation 6 to Council – Leadership and Communications Training, at page 13);

“Seek out a consultant experienced in municipal governance or leadership who can provide guidance, and mentoring advice and constructive feedback. Provide basic education and coaching for the mayor on their roles and responsibilities.” (Recommendation 7 to Council – Mentoring, at page 13); and

“Take courses in municipal governance, ethics, and public administration to deepen understanding of the responsibilities and challenges in public office.” (Recommendation 9 to Council – Educational Course, at page 13);

Council directs as follows, subject always to applicable laws:

i) that Mayor Hamer-Jackson be restricted from attending the Closed portions of any Select Committee meetings other than by invitation;

ii) the restriction in paragraph i) above will remain in place for a period of twelve (12) months or until Mayor Hamer-Jackson has complied with the following recommendation from Municipal Advisor Henry Braun’s Report, whichever is earlier:

 Recommendation 9 to Council – Educational Course, at page 13: specifically, an educational course approved by Council that provides specific training on Mayor Hamer-Jackson’s statutory and common law obligations to respect and protect confidentiality and privacy.