The Nova Scotia government is considering a code of conduct after an Amherst municipal councillor used a racially insensitive term.
“I think there should be a code they should abide by, whether in chambers or out,” says one resident.
“Nope I don’t think it’s necessary, just reprimand them somehow,” says another resident.
Under the Municipal Government Act, it isn’t mandatory for municipalities to have a set of standards.
However, after Amherst Councillor George Baker uttered a racist comment outside of council business, the province of Nova Scotia decided to look into changing the rules.
“I think it would be a good idea to have a uniform code of conduct,” says HRM Councillor Gloria McCluskey. “It’s kind of sad; you’d think elected officials would be responsible enough that you wouldn’t have to have a code.”
In Windsor, N.S., a town less than half the size of Amherst, there is already a code of conduct that council must adhere to. Still, there is a feeling that rules imposed by the province may have more influence.
“Everyone holds us to a high degree of standards, and we have to seem as being fair, just, and honest,” says Windsor’s Acting Mayor John Bregante.
“To make sure you’re as professional and respectful as possible, that’s the key,” says Halifax Councillor Matt Whitman.
Whitman has been called out in the past for a social media comment, and says he’s learning on the job.
“Whether that's online, on the weekends, you are pretty much always on,” says Whitman. “So I think you have to adhere to a high standard of how you communicate.”
While most govern by their own moral principles, the code may offer some reinforcement.
With files from CTV Atlantic’s Kelland Sundahl
