N.S. municipalities welcome provincewide code of conduct, but not without questions

Municipalities across Nova Scotia are embracing the new rules regarding council member behavior, although some have expressed reservations about the provincewide policy that was recently introduced. The code of conduct, which covers aspects such as collegiality, respect, integrity, professionalism, transparency, and responsibility, was implemented following the municipal elections on Oct. 19 in Nova Scotia. All municipalities are required to adhere to the legislation by Dec. 19.

Truro town council, for example, voted 5-2 in favor of implementing the code of conduct. Mayor Cathy Hinton expressed the necessity of the code but highlighted concerns about the lack of flexibility for addressing issues, aside from advocating for amendments from the province.

The code, which outlines procedures for investigating complaints and imposing sanctions, was developed based on recommendations from a working group that was established earlier in the year. The Association of Municipal Administrators is currently compiling a list of qualified investigators that municipalities can engage to fulfill their obligations under the new code.

During discussions within Truro council, members raised questions regarding the feasibility of finding and funding an investigator to conduct reports upon receiving a complaint. There were also inquiries about how the code could impact relations with the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) and the policies concerning gifts and donations.

The Department of Municipal Affairs declined an interview request but mentioned that they have not received negative feedback from municipalities thus far. Pam Mood, the president of the Nova Scotia Federation of Municipalities, also stated that she had not received any complaints. She emphasized that the code of conduct, which took two years to develop, aims to provide guidance to council members on appropriate behavior and responses to complaints.

The code serves as a framework to assist elected officials in determining the appropriate actions to take in response to complaints after an investigator completes their report. Sanctions outlined in the code range from warning letters and training to a six-month suspension from duties or a $1,000 fine. Warden James Fuller of the Municipality of the District of St. Mary’s welcomed the sanctions, noting that they provide a more substantial consequence compared to the limited punishments available under the previous code of conduct.

Despite the positive reception of the code, concerns have been raised about the potential increase in conflict-of-interest declarations by elected officials in rural communities. Warden Allen Webber of the Municipality of the District of Chester highlighted the apprehension among council members who engage in volunteer work and how the code may impact their activities.

The code of conduct aims to promote accountability and uphold ethical standards within municipal councils in Nova Scotia. While challenges and questions remain regarding its implementation, municipalities are committed to working through these issues to ensure effective governance and transparency in their communities.