The Code of Conduct was a key election priority for Coun. Jordan McPhail. (Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

By Derek Cornet

New Bylaw

Code of Conduct for La Ronge council adopted

Jan 28, 2021 | 5:32 PM

A new bylaw adopting a Code of Conduct for town council is in force as of Jan. 26.

It was an election promise from Coun. Jordan McPhail, who said he wanted to deliver on it as soon as possible. The code is meant to promote public confidence, avoid improper use of the influence of their office and uphold both the letter and spirit of the law including policies adopted by council.

“It goes into the common sense parts of council to make sure when we are in public and we are there in an official capacity as a councillor, that you are aware you’re not taking your personal beliefs,” he said. “It gives us an opportunity to have a policy there that is enforceable.”

The code states no member of council shall accept a fee, advance, cash, gift, gift certificate or personal benefit that is connected directly or indirectly with the performance of his or her duties of office. It also notes no member shall extend, in the discharge of their official duties, preferential treatment to family members, organizations or groups in which they or their family members have direct or indirect pecuniary interest.

The code also adds members of council are expected to perform their duties in office and arrange their private affairs in a manner that promotes public confidence and will bear close public scrutiny. McPhail explained there have been instances in the last fours years regarding land sales and the release of confidential information to the public where such a code would have been useful.

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“This gives a process to start to look into those types of situations. It allows for remedial action from councillors,” McPhail said. “We need to make sure when there is something that requires intervention, that we have a policy and procedure to do so, and something that is fair to the community, as well as the councillors who sit around the table.”

The code also outlines what is considered confidential information such as items under litigation, negotiation or personnel matters. Other examples include information that infringes on the rights of others and price schedules in a contract tender.

It also covers business relations, improper use of influence, use of municipal staff, election campaigns, conduct at meetings, media communication, use of media, respect for the municipality, respectful workplace, respecting staff, employment of relatives, reprisals and obstruction, informal complaint procedures and steps to an investigation.

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derek.cornet@jpbg.ca

Twitter: @saskjourno