Conflict of Interest: Two disclosures
In my first term on council, I wanted to be as detached as possible when voting on issues so I could vote neutrally without bias. But the reality is every council member brings a lifetime of connections and experience to the table which can consciously and unconsciously influence them. Medicine Hat is a city that feels more like a small town and the connections in a small town are everywhere.
Disclosure is the first step in navigating conflicts, so the public is aware.
Disclosure of conflict of interests
My spouse, Safira, works for the City.
I am a military reservist.
Guardrails to navigate potential conflict of interests.
My wife and I have both worked with our employers to disclose all potential conflicts of interest and have personally reviewed relevant legislation and policies. Legislation and policies provide guidance in resolving these situations. I also spoke with Alberta Municipal Affairs to understand what appropriate guardrails should be in place.
Municipal employees with family members as candidates for council
In 2024, my wife applied for, and was hired for a job with the City. I had no connection to the City at that point. She also previously worked for the City in 2013-2014 prior to my involvement with City Council.
The City has a Conflict of Interest policy, which she, and every employee, adheres to.
City employees are allowed to participate in political activities outside of their work roles and hours, but we decided it would be best if she was not involved in my current campaign.
She is not in a management position and has no influence as it relates to interactions with City Council.
As long as these guardrails are followed, there is no conflict of interest.
Serving in the military reserve
I joined the army reserve in 2021, while I was still a councillor. I am currently employed as a lieutenant with The South Alberta Light Horse Regiment.
My intention to run in this municipal election was disclosed to the Canadian Armed Forces and any potential conflict of interests were reviewed through the Defence Ethics Programme.
I, and other reservists, are permitted to stand as municipal candidates provided we adhere to certain conditions, which were provided to me.
I can only engage in political activity outside of work time and out of uniform.
I am not to use my position to influence the election including, for example, sharing pictures or stories of my role in the military. I have simply listed my position on my employment history.
During the election period these are the potential conflicts I/we are navigating. If elected as mayor, there will be other potential conflicts I would need to disclose along with mitigation strategies to accompany them—in accordance with applicable policies and legislation.
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