Council Code of Conduct
The council code of conduct explains how Council Members should behave ethically and responsibly. The rules cover handling information, working with city staff, accepting gifts, political activity, participating in community groups, and using social media.
The Integrity Commissioner can investigate if a Member is suspected of breaking the rules. If the Integrity Commissioner finds that the rules were broken, they can recommend penalties, such as a reprimand or suspending the member’s pay for up to 90 days.
How to file a code of conduct complaint
If you believe a Council Member has broken the code, you can file a complaint. Here's how:
- Who can file: Any Council Member, the entire Council, or any resident of Niagara Falls can file a complaint. The complaint must be made by an individual, not a group or company.
- Timing: The complaint must be filed within six weeks of the alleged violation
- Fee: Residents must pay a fee to file a complaint. If the complaint is valid, you may get 50% of the fee back. However, if the Integrity Commissioner finds the complaint frivolous or without enough grounds, the cost will not be refunded. Check the Schedule of Fees.
Steps to file
- Complete the Code of Conduct Complaint Form
- Provide details on how the Council Member violated the Code, reference specific code sections, and identify any supporting witnesses
- Attach any evidence you have
- After submitting the form online, please contact the City to discuss paying the required filing fee to the Integrity Commissioner through the City Clerk's office
Cheques payable to: The City of Niagara Falls
By mail or in person:
Integrity Commissioner, c/o The City Clerk
City of Niagara Falls
4310 Queen Street
Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X5
Phone 905-356-7521 or email clerk@niagarafalls.ca with any questions.
Investigations
The Integrity Commissioner decides whether to investigate complaints. They can dismiss complaints outside their jurisdiction, frivolous, not made in good faith, or lacking enough evidence for an investigation.
After investigating a complaint, the Integrity Commissioner reports their findings to the Council. If they find a violation of the Code, the Council will address it in a public meeting by either:
- Issuing a reprimand, or
- Suspending the Member’s pay for up to 90 days
Contact Us
City of Niagara Falls
4310 Queen Street
P.O. Box 1023
Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X5
Canada
905-356-7521
clerk@niagarafalls.ca