A legal firm has reviewed the City of Belleville’s conflict of interest bylaw and has suggested several changes.
The most important change is that the conflict guidelines be broadened beyond the strict pecuniary interests outlined in the Municipal Act.
The lawyers suggest the definitions of conflict be broadened to include perceived conflicts of interest such as when a council member’s relatives might benefit from a council vote one way or another.
It is also suggested that the strict and broad interpretations of conflict of interest apply to local boards and advisory committees to council as well.
Council will see the complete report from Cunningham, Swan, Carty, Littlek, & Bonham LLP at its meeting Tuesday.
