JASON SETNYK
At the September 8 meeting, Cornwall City Council approved a supplementary motion to remove Councillor Maurice Dupelle from three key committees: the Cornwall Police Services Board, the Eastern Ontario Health Unit Board, and the Glen Stor Dun Lodge Committee of Management. The decision followed an Integrity Commissioner’s report that found Dupelle had violated the Code of Conduct and recommended the maximum penalty-a 90-day suspension of pay.
The motion, brought forward by Councillor Elaine MacDonald and seconded by Councillor Denis Sabourin, cited Dupelle’s persistent absenteeism and lack of engagement on provincially mandated boards. City Clerk Denise Labelle-Gelinas read the motion aloud, stating that the public had a right to hear it in full.
“I believe it explains itself,” said MacDonald, noting that these committees differ from municipal advisory groups and involve responsibilities at the provincial level in collaboration with other municipalities.
Councillor Claude McIntosh emphasized the urgency of replacing not only Dupelle but also Councillor Gardiner, who is currently on a leave of absence. “We’re missing two votes at the table,” he noted, citing concerns from committee members about lack of representation.
Councillor Dean Hollingsworth raised a procedural issue, arguing that while the mayor typically recommends appointments, council must officially approve them. “The rules are the rules,” he said, suggesting the motion was technically out of order as originally worded.
To address this, the motion was amended to read that Council “urge the Mayor to replace Councillor Dupelle…and bring back the recommendations for Council endorsement.” Both MacDonald and Sabourin agreed to the revision.
Mayor Justin Towndale confirmed he would return with replacement candidates at the next council meeting and encouraged councillors to submit their committee preferences. The motion passed unanimously.
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