Policies on elected gifts
As an elected official in Wrenford, you represent the public interest. To maintain trust and integrity, strict rules apply to any gifts or benefits you may receive in your role. These guidelines ensure that all council members act fairly and avoid any appearance of impropriety.
What counts as a gift?
A gift includes any item of value, such as cash, gift cards, discounts, meals, travel, or services. It also covers invitations to events where the cost is covered by a third party. If a vendor, developer, or community group offers you something of value, you must evaluate whether it could influence your decision-making.
Acceptance and reporting rules
You may not accept any gift that is linked to a specific contract, by-law, or decision currently before council. Small promotional items, such as branded pens or calendars with minimal value, are generally acceptable if they are available to the public. However, any gift exceeding $50 in value must be declared.
All reportable gifts must be submitted to the City Clerk by October 30, 2026, or within five business days of receipt, whichever is earlier. Use the official gift declaration form available on the intranet. If you are unsure whether an item qualifies, contact the Integrity Commissioner for advice before accepting it.
Refusing inappropriate gifts
If a gift appears to be an attempt to gain favour, politely decline it. You can refer the donor to the Code of conduct for elected officials for clarification on ethical standards. Remember, refusing a gift does not mean refusing service or support for a legitimate community request.
Consequences of non-compliance
Failing to report gifts or accepting prohibited benefits can result in disciplinary action, including fines or removal from committee assignments. Serious breaches may be referred to the Ontario Integrity Commissioner for investigation.
For more information on ethical standards, review the Conflict of interest policy. If you need help with the reporting process, contact the City Clerk’s office at 519-555-0100 or email [email protected].
By following these rules, you help keep Wrenford transparent and accountable. Thank you for your commitment to public service.