Integrity Commissioner

City of Pembroke Integrity Commissioner:

Mary Ellen Bench, BA, JD, CS, CIC.C

Bench Municipal: Law + Governance

The Code of Conduct for council members in Ontario is a set of ethical standards and rules that guide the behaviour and decision-making of elected officials at the municipal level. Its purpose is to promote accountability, integrity, transparency, and respect in local government.

Under Ontario's Municipal Act, 2001, all municipalities are required to adopt a Code of Conduct for members of council. This Code helps ensure that council members act in the public interest, treat others with respect, and avoid conflicts of interest. It typically addresses topics such as:

• Gifts and benefits
• Use of municipal resources
• Confidential information
• Respectful conduct toward the public, staff, and fellow council members
• Accountability and transparency

The Integrity Commissioner is responsible for interpreting and applying the Code, investigating complaints, and providing advice to council members.

By following the Code of Conduct, council members help build public trust and uphold the standards expected of those in public office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can file a complaint?

Any member of the public, municipal staff, individual Council members, or Council as a whole may file a complaint if they believe the Code of Conduct has been violated.

Can an anonymous complaint be filed?

All complaints must be submitted in writing and signed by an identifiable individual. While the complainant’s identity is kept confidential, it may be disclosed if the Integrity Commissioner determines that it is suitable for reporting purposes.

How do I make a complaint?

Complaints may be submitted in writing to the Clerk using a Code of Conduct Complaint Form.

Informal complaints can be addressed by any person who believes that the activity of a Member has breached the Code of Conduct or the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act, but the person does not want to initiate a formal complaint process. See Appendix I of the Code of Conduct for further details.

Individuals are encouraged to pursue the informal complaint procedure as the first means of remedying behaviour or an activity they believe violates the Code of Conduct.

Is there a fee to file a formal complaint?

A fee of $150 is required to submit a formal complaint. If the outcome of the complaint results in a negotiated resolution or a finding that the member has breached the Code of Conduct or the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act, a partial refund of up to 50% of the fee may be issued, subject to the recommendation of the Integrity Commissioner.

July 2, 2025 Integrity Commissioner Report - Councillor Lafreniere

October 8, 2024 Integrity Commissioner Report - Councillor Kuehl

October 10, 2024 Integrity Commissioner Report - Mayor Gervais

December 20, 2023 Integrity Commissioner Report - Mayor Gervais 

November 6, 2023 Integrity Commissioner Report - Councillor Purcell