It was alleged that a Former Member’s email to the Clerk of 11 September 2024 (“the Email”) breached the Code of Conduct (“the Code”).
Our investigation considered whether the Former Member failed to comply with the following provisions of the Code: • 4(b) – You must show respect and consideration for others • 4(c) – You must not use bullying behaviour or harass any person • 6(1)(a) – You must not conduct yourself in a manner which could reasonably be regarded as bringing your office or authority into disrepute All relevant information was obtained from the Council. Witnesses, including the Complainant and the Clerk were interviewed. The Former Member was also interviewed and his written responses to the complaint (both pre and post interview) were considered.
The Ombudsman found that the Email was suggestive of a breach under paragraph 4(b) – disrespect and 4(c) – bullying of the Code, but did not justify a finding under paragraph 6(1)(a) – disrepute, of the Code.
The Ombudsman concluded that no further action was required in the public interest. During the final stages of our investigation, the Former Member’s resigned, which brought an end to his position of trust and influence at the Council.
Had the Former Member continued to serve on the Council, and were it not for the personal impact that the investigation had on his health and well being, based on the information we had gathered, we would likely have referred the Former Member’s conduct to a Standards Committee for determination. The Former Member was advised that, should he once again become a member, and if similar conduct concerns are received, these complaints may be taken into consideration when determining our course of action.