HALIFAX: An investigation has been launched against Halifax Mayor Andy Fillmore following a complaint that he misled the public about the city’s governance. The action was initiated after an independent consultant found merit in the complaints.
Speaking on a radio show on July 22, Mayor Fillmore stated that the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) holds the most authority in the city’s current governance structure and that he works under the CAO. However, several councillors and the current CAO, Cathy O’Toole, quickly corrected the mayor, clarifying that the CAO reports to the council.
According to the code of conduct, the investigation report must be submitted to the council within six months of the complaint being filed. After receiving the report, the council will discuss the matter in a private session and may take action against the mayor, including a possible order to apologize, a fine of up to $1,000, or removal from municipal committees for a few months.
