Prince Edward County mayor Robert Quaiff. (Photo: Nicole Kleinsteuber / Quinte News)
The County is considering making changes to its procedural bylaw pertaining to disclosure of pecuniary interest.
On Thursday, the committee of the whole carried a motion that states in addition to verbally declaring the conflict of interest a member of council must leave the chambers while the horseshoe is discussing the matter.
Mayor Robert Quaiff, who normally excuses himself from chambers after declaring a conflict said he doesn’t want to see council exposed to any kind of liability.
Mayor Robert Quaiff – conflict of interest
When asked if this bylaw change was in response to Belleville mayor Taso Christopher recently being found guilty of conflict of interest, mayor Quaiff said it wasn’t, however he added ‘it is still in the back of everyone’s mind.’
Mayor Robert Quaiff 2 – Conflict of Interest
The municipal act does not require a member to leave. However the recommendation is to mitigate alleged contraventions that may arise due to body language or facial expression that may be attempting to influence the voting on a matter.
The issue will come back to council for a final vote.
