Why these rules exist
When you are elected to Wrenford City Council, you make decisions that affect the whole community. To keep things fair and transparent, the City has clear rules about business dealings and transactions involving elected officials. These rules make sure that every decision is made in the public interest, not for personal gain.
What counts as a transaction?
A transaction includes any business dealing between you (or your family or close associates) and the City. This covers:
- Contracts for services or construction work
- Selling property to the City or buying property from the City
- Applying for a business licence, development permit, or zoning change
- Receiving a City grant, sponsorship, or donation
- Any other financial interest in a City project or decision
How to disclose your interest
If you have a financial interest in a transaction, you must declare it before the City discusses or votes on it. You do this by submitting a written disclosure to the City Clerk's office. You must leave the chamber during any discussion or vote on that matter, and you cannot speak on it or influence City staff. All declarations are recorded in the public meeting minutes so residents can see how decisions are made.
Gifts and hospitality
You cannot accept gifts, favours, or hospitality that could influence your official duties. The City's Council gifts and hospitality policy sets out strict limits on what you can accept. If you receive something worth more than $50.00, you must report it to the City Clerk. This applies to event invitations, meals, and travel reimbursements related to City business.
Violations and penalties
Failing to disclose an interest or breaking these rules is a serious breach of the Code of conduct for elected officials. The designated Ethics Advisor will review the matter. Penalties can include a fine, suspension of committee assignments, or in serious cases, removal from office. The City tracks all disclosures publicly to keep you accountable.
See also: Leisure guide fall 2022.
Need help or have a question?
The City Clerk's office can answer questions about whether something needs to be disclosed or how to file a declaration. You can visit the service counter at Wrenford City Hall or call 519-555-0100. You can also review past disclosures in the public records section of the City website.