The city’s Integrity Commissioner has found Code of Conduct breaches involving $5,557 of the $17,253 in expenses the mayor has already reimbursed.
Guy Giorno began his inquiry after Mayor Peter Chirico requested he investigate the expenses at the end of June.
In his report, Giorno says it’s up to council to decide how to respond to the breach.
“In the event of a contravention, the Council may choose to do nothing, or it may impose one of two penalties (but not both): reprimand or pay suspension (up to 90 days),” states the report.
Chirico issued the following statement after the release of the report:
“In June, I requested that the Integrity Commissioner undertake a comprehensive investigation into my expenses, following concerns that had been raised. Throughout the process, I have remained transparent and fully cooperative. Today, I welcome the conclusions of the Commissioner’s report.
I want to be clear: All expenses detailed in the report were claimed transparently, and any personal expenses have been repaid in full. When I used the City credit card for personal expenses, it was always understood that they would be reimbursed. On a few occasions, there were good faith misunderstandings regarding allowable expenses, and I accept responsibility for them. All of those expenses have been fully repaid.
Now, with the report complete, my focus remains on continuing to serve our community. I look forward to Council’s consideration of the report and to any recommendations it may make.”
The report, which details that breaches involved hockey tickets, golf-related expenses and a few meals with family members, will be the subject of a special council meeting Wednesday night.
