Code of Conduct and Complaint Process

The Town of Mahone Bay is dedicated to maintaining integrity, transparency, and professionalism in municipal governance. To support these values, the Town has adopted the Code of Conduct for Municipal Elected Officials, as required by the Nova Scotia Municipal Government Act. This Code applies to all municipalities in Nova Scotia and sets clear standards for ethical behaviour and accountability for elected officials.


The Code outlines expectations for conduct and provides a process for addressing potential breaches. Complaints are handled by an independent investigator to ensure fairness, confidentiality, and integrity throughout the investigation.


Key areas covered include:

• General Conduct: Maintaining integrity, transparency, and adherence to procedural rules.
• Confidential Information: Protecting sensitive municipal information from unauthorized use or disclosure.
• Conflict of Interest: Avoiding decisions influenced by personal gain.
• Fairness: Treating all individuals equally and with respect.
• Use of Municipal Resources: Ensuring municipal property and services are used appropriately.
• Interaction with Staff and Service Providers: Maintaining professional relationships and boundaries.

Visit Code of Conduct for Municipal Elected Officials Regulations

What Constitutes a Breach?

​Violations of the Code of Conduct include, but are not limited to:

• Misusing confidential information.
• Accepting unauthorized gifts or benefits.
• Engaging in conflicts of interest.
• Showing favouritism or bias in municipal decision-making.
• Failing to adhere to council decisions or municipal policies.
• Inappropriate interactions with staff or misuse of municipal resources.

Filing a Complaint

If you believe an elected official has breached the Code of Conduct, you may file a formal complaint. Complaints must meet the following criteria:

1. Submission Timeline: This must be filed within six months of discovering the alleged breach.
2. Format: Complaints must be submitted in writing to the appointed investigator.

​Investigator Contact Information:
An investigator is yet to be appointed. Details coming soon.

The Complaint Process

1. ​Initial Submission: Submit your written complaint, including all relevant details, to the investigator.
2. Review: The investigator will decide if the complaint is valid. If it isn’t, it will be dismissed.
3. Investigation: If the complaint moves forward, the investigator will inform the council member involved and carry out a detailed, confidential investigation.
4. Report: The investigator will provide a report to Council within six months of receiving the complaint.
5. Council Decision: Council will review the report, decide if a breach happened, and take appropriate action if needed.

Possible Consequences of a Breach

​Depending on the severity of the violation, consequences may include:

• Formal reprimand or public censure.
• Removal from committees or leadership roles.
• Financial penalties or reduced remuneration.
• The requirement to issue an apology or attend additional training.
• Restrictions on access to municipal facilities or resources.

Each case is reviewed thoroughly to ensure it is handled fairly and appropriately.