Report an Ethics Complaint in Barrie - Who to Contact

In Barrie, Ontario, complaints about the conduct of a member of Council or a local board are handled under the City’s code of conduct and the designated review process. This guide explains who investigates ethics complaints, where to send a report, and what to expect from the City’s procedures so residents can make a clear, documented submission.

Penalties & Enforcement

The City’s code of conduct sets the framework for handling complaints; specific monetary fines or graduated penalty tables are not stated on the cited page. Enforcement and review typically involve an integrity review and recommendations to Council.

• Enforcer: Integrity Commissioner or appointed independent investigator, with administrative oversight by the City Clerk ^[1].
• Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.
• Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offences — not specified on the cited page.
• Non-monetary sanctions: public reports to Council, censure, recommendations for training or corrective orders; court action if statutory offences arise.
• Inspection and complaint pathway: complaints are submitted to the City Clerk or the Integrity Commissioner as set out by the City’s code of conduct ^[1].
• Appeals and review: formal appeal routes are not specified on the cited page; review and reporting to Council are typical mechanisms.
• Defences and discretion: the investigator may consider reasonable excuse, context, or whether a permit/variance applies; specific statutory defences are not set out on the cited page.

Applications & Forms

The City’s public material describes the complaint process but does not publish a single standardized complaint form on the cited page; the City Clerk accepts written complaints and forwards matters to the Integrity Commissioner where applicable ^[1]. Fees are not stated on the cited page.

How to File and What to Include

• Identify the Member(s) and date(s) of the alleged conduct.
• Describe facts clearly, include witnesses and documents, and attach copies of supporting records.
• State the clause or section of the Code of Conduct you believe was breached, if known.
• Send the complaint to the City Clerk or the Integrity Commissioner contact listed on the City’s code of conduct page ^[1].

FAQ

Who investigates ethics complaints in Barrie?

The City’s designated Integrity Commissioner or an independent investigator conducts inquiries; the City Clerk manages intake and referrals.

How do I submit a complaint?

Submit a written complaint to the City Clerk or to the Integrity Commissioner contact identified by the City; include dates, facts, and supporting documents.

What penalties can result?

Penalties and fines are not specified on the cited City page; typical outcomes include public reporting to Council, censure, or corrective recommendations.

How-To

1. Gather evidence: collect emails, minutes, photos, witness names, and any relevant documents.
2. Draft your complaint: state the facts, dates, affected parties, and the specific conduct that concerns you.
3. Submit: send your written complaint to the City Clerk or the Integrity Commissioner as directed on the City’s code page ^[1].
4. Follow up: request a confirmation of receipt and a file number; retain copies for your records.

Key Takeaways

• File in writing and include verifiable evidence and dates.
• Intake is managed by the City Clerk; investigations are by the Integrity Commissioner.

Help and Support / Resources

• City of Barrie - City Clerk
• City of Barrie - Council and Committees
• City of Barrie - By-law Enforcement

1. [1] City of Barrie - Code of Conduct for Members of Council and complaint process