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 $500 to file a complaint. You may get 50% of the fee back if the complaint is valid. However, if the Integrity Commissioner finds the complaint frivolous or without enough grounds, the cost will not be refunded.
  • Steps to File:
  1. Complete the Code of Conduct Complaint Form.
  2. Provide details on how the Council Member violated the Code, reference specific code sections, and identify any supporting witnesses.
  3. Attach any evidence you have.
  4. Submit the form and the $500 fee to the Integrity Commissioner through the City Clerk's office.

How to submit a code of conduct complaint

Contact us with any questions at 905-356-7521 ext. 0

  • By Mail or in person:
    Integrity Commissioner, c/o The City Clerk
    City of Niagara Falls
    4310 Queen Street
    Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X5
  • By Fax:
    905-356-9083
  • By Email:
    [email protected]

Investigations

The Integrity Commissioner decides whether to investigate complaints. They can dismiss complaints that are outside their jurisdiction, frivolous, not made in good faith, or lack 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.

Documents