Brockville mayor called out after probe finds he broke city’s code of conduct

He admitted to poor judgment and expressed regret

Brockville Mayor Matt Wren has been officially reprimanded after an integrity investigation found he violated the city’s code of conduct.

City council voted unanimously Tuesday to accept Integrity Commissioner Ellen Fry’s findings that Wren breached the code twice — once by trying to intimidate someone at their workplace and again by calling members of the public “wackadoodle.”

Fry, of ADR Chambers, recommended a formal reprimand, the lightest penalty allowed under Ontario’s Municipal Act. During the meeting, Wren declared a conflict of interest and left the council chamber while members discussed the report.

In a written statement, Wren accepted responsibility, admitted using poor judgment and expressed regret. He also noted the report confirmed he did not misuse his office.

Councillors commended Wren’s record of community service but said transparency and accountability must guide local government. A formal letter of reprimand will now be drafted.

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