Brockville mayor responds following accusations of intimidation and disrespect in code of conduct report

Council is set to discuss the report and its recommendations at tonight's meeting

Update: Statement from Mayor Wren:

"I accept the Integrity Commissioner’s report and am pleased that, as anticipated, it confirms I did not misuse my office to influence staff decisions. I have deep respect for the role of City staff and consistently refrain from interfering in matters that are theirs to decide. 

The report clearly finds that the complainant leveled accusations that are unfounded and without merit. 

The Commissioner also addressed my response to deeply offensive comments directed towards me.  I acknowledge that my reaction represented a moment of poor judgement.  I regret this and accept the criticism. 

While navigating opposing views is part of public service, the rise in personal attacks and harassment makes it increasingly difficult to maintain composure in every moment. 

I consider the matter closed and will not be commenting further."

Original story below.

Brockville Mayor Matt Wren has been found in violation of city council’s code of conduct following an investigation by Integrity Commissioner Ellen Fry.

Fry’s report concludes Wren broke the code on two occasions — first by attempting to intimidate someone by applying pressure at her workplace, and second by using disrespectful language toward members of the public.

The report recommends that council issue a formal reprimand. Under Ontario’s Municipal Act, council could suspend pay or remove a member from office, but Fry did not recommend these penalties.

Council is set to discuss the report and its recommendations at its 5:30 p.m. meeting.

Complainant Bill McKinnon, who helped organize last year’s Santa Claus Parade, has urged council to impose the maximum penalty — a 90-day pay suspension.

Wren says he accepts the findings, denies influencing staff decisions, and expresses regret for comments made in poor judgment.