Ethics Commissioner

As an independent officer, the Ethics Commissioner performs advisory, investigative, and educational services to support fair and transparent governance in relation to the Council Code of Conduct Bylaw. The Ethics Commissioner reports on findings and makes sanctions or disciplinary recommendations to Council, as a mechanism for risk management and resolution of inquiry. The Ethics Commissioner also maintains confidential records and an independent budget. 

Their key responsibilities include, among other things, providing advice and recommendations to Council Members on behaviour that would be consistent with the Council Member’s ethical obligations under the Code of Conduct Bylaw and their statutory compliance and disclosure obligations. The Ethics Commissioner will also be responsible for adjudicating and investigating complaints, as well as delivering educational training and programs to Council Members and staff regarding the role of the Ethics Commissioner and the ethical obligations and responsibilities of Council Members under the Council Code of Conduct Bylaw. 

The Ethics Commissioner will be retained on a contract for a fixed term, with the possibility of extension, subject to termination by a 2/3 vote of all Council members. This is not a full-time, permanent role, and can be assumed as a part of a lawyer’s or other professional’s ongoing practice – the Ethics Commissioner will invoice the City for their services on an hourly rate basis. 

As of May 2024, the City has appointed Jennifer Devins to the position of Ethics Commissioner. Jennifer is a partner at Roper Greyell Employment and Labour Lawyers and holds two degrees from the University of British Columbia, including a Bachelor of Laws. She brings with her nearly 20 years of experience in all areas of labour and employment law, including human rights law. 

Read the full media release here.