Wrongdoing on the part of a city council member could soon come with mandated repercussions after the audit committee approved the inclusion of the mayor and aldermen under the city’s whistle-blower policy.
Much like all other city employees who can be investigated for reports of wrongdoing, Ald. Brian Pincott believes council members should be held accountable.
“I think that we have to be held, at the very least, to the same standards as city staff,” said Pincott. “There is a perception that we are above the rules, and we’re not.”
Pincott questioned whether, as public officials, the names of council members should remain anonymous if claims are investigated and substantiated.
City auditor Todd Horbasenko said he believes the names should be confidential, as is the case with all city employÂees, to be consistent.
“If (council) wants increased disclosure, let them have that, but no less disclosure,” he said.
If approved by council, a framework will be developed including who will investigate claims against council and what the repercussions will be.
Horbasenko will report back to council in March with recommendations.
