THUNDER BAY – Leader’s Ledger – The Thunder Bay Police Services Board has received the results of an investigation by the Ontario Civilian Police Commission regarding the conduct of Mayor Keith Hobbs.
Mayor Hobbs has been counseled on a number of issues regarding confidentiality and his role as a board member. In particular matters discussed in-camera at Police Services Board meetings are to remain confidential.
As a board member, Mayor Hobbs will be expected to declare any perceived, actual or potential conflicts of interest arising from his former position as a police officer and President of the Thunder Bay Police Association including issues concerning discipline and labour relations.
There are a number of considerations from a governance perspective including the clear understanding that board members are not to delve into operation matters of the police service. The board believes that Mayor Hobbs will be more aware of what the governance role is. All board members must adhere to Ontario Regulation 421/97 which is the Code of Conduct of Police Service Boards.
The next police services board meeting will be held on December 20, 2011. Mayor Hobbs will rejoin the board at that time.
Councillor Joe Virdiramo
Chair of the Thunder Bay Police Services Board