The Municipality of Chatham-Kent has hired a new integrity commissioner, after council voted in favour of the move last week.
Paul Watson was appointed to the position for a two-year period, with a possible renewal option.
Judy Smith, manager of municipal governance, said in a staff report the purpose of an integrity commissioner is to:
– Provide advice and opinion to the Members of Council
– Provide independent complaint prevention, investigation, adjudication, and resolution to members of council and the public
– Provide education on adherence with the Code of Conduct and other procedures, rules and policies governing ethical behavior.
“Up to this point, council has not appointed an integrity commissioner,” Smith said in her report.
“Discussions have occurred with Mr. Watson with regard to his responsibilities and compensation. The rate, previously approved by Council, is $400 per day ($200 per half day) when needed.”
Watson is a lawyer in Chatham-Kent, along with being a former councillor for the former City of Chatham and for the Municipality of Chatham-Kent.
