Essex County's integrity commissioner has cleared Essex Mayor Sherry Bondy of any code of conduct violation related to her public criticism of the region's green-bin organic-waste collection program. The decision was announced during a council meeting on Wednesday.
Complaints had been filed against Bondy over her social media comments made earlier this year, but the commissioner determined that her actions remained respectful of the process. Bondy stated, "I have been very vocal about the green bin program. Because of my outspokenness, code of conduct complaints were filed against me. I'm here to tell you today that after a full investigation, the integrity commissioner has officially terminated that file and found no contravention of the code."
Code of Conduct Policy
Essex County's Code of Conduct does not directly prohibit councillors from indicating they disagree with a position taken by council, provided it is done respectfully and the council's decision is accurately explained. The policy, adopted in 2023, states: "Members will attempt to accurately and adequately communicate the attitudes and decisions of council or the local board, even if they disagree with a majority decision of council. Members may publicly express the reason for voting differently than the majority but shall always do so in a respectful manner that supports the decisions of council."
Green Bin Program Controversy
The green bin program has been a subject of intense debate at county council, facing criticism from some taxpayers over its costs and implementation, particularly in rural areas. Bondy has been vocal about the issue on social media through video posts. The program launched in Windsor, Essex, Lakeshore, LaSalle, and Tecumseh in October and will expand to Amherstburg, Kingsville, and Leamington this fall.
Bondy outlined key findings from the integrity commissioner's investigation. First, the commissioner clarified that voting against a majority decision does not prevent a councillor from speaking about it. Bondy emphasized, "The commissioner found that I exercised my right to explain why I voted differently while still being respectful of the process. I believe it's my job to explain my 'No' votes just as much as my 'Yes' votes."
Second, the commissioner noted that Bondy's conduct was "materially not different" from that of other county councillors or staff when discussing the program. Third, the commissioner recognized that Bondy's social media and videos were not intended to undermine council but rather to enhance public awareness and participation. The finding concluded that encouraging residents to get informed and attend meetings is a service to democracy.
