Nanaimo’s mayor is digging in his heels after councillors released a letter Tuesday alleging he hasn’t been open, honest and transparent while on the job.
In the letter, council said it launched an investigation seven months ago into Bill McKay’s spending behaviour and his conduct.
“We’ve tried our best to work with the mayor to come forward with the information and it hasn’t been successful,” said Nanaimo Coun. Jerry Hong.
The findings said McKay entered into a non-disclosure agreement regarding a foot ferry in Nanaimo without council approval and failed to declare gifts he received during a trip to China last year.
A constructive dismissal and human rights claim launched by a former employee against the city and CAO also alleges McKay disclosed confidential information.
Council has asked the RCMP to investigate the allegations.
“I think that the findings suggest relatively strongly that we need to take corrective actions,” said Coun. Bill Bestwick.
But on Wednesday, McKay denied any wrongdoing, saying all of the allegations are false.
“All of these charges are speculation and innuendo,” McKay told CTV News.
He chalked it up to council trying to discredit and humiliate him publicly.
“Politics is dirty and it can be very vicious, I just had no idea how dirty it could be,” he said.
RCMP confirmed it had received information regarding concerns from the city, and it will be investigating the information thoroughly.
Island District RCMP will handle the case instead of Nanaimo Mounties to ensure a level of independence, according to police.
Despite the squabbling, council and mayor insist they are still able to run the city.
Voters will have to wait just under two years to have their say in the next municipal election.
With a report from CTV Vancouver Island's Jessica Lepp
