Value of Integrity Commissioners, code of conduct investigations worthy of debate

The group representing Northern Ontario municipalities wants the province to re-examine the Integrity Commission and code-of-conduct system and make it more consistent and worth the cost. Former North Bay councilor Dave Mendicino and Echo Essentials co-hosts Scott Clark and Dave Dale rake over past investigations, outcomes and options that might make it better. A debate was sparked when Mendicino said the $50,000 spent on one investigation a few years ago over Invest North Bay was a good example of waste and inconsistency.Dave and Scott, however, point out that partly due to the complaints and investigation, whether right or wrong, probably had something to do with the board canceling a contract and getting several hundred thousand back into city coffers. Also discussed was the annoying traffic concerns about Lakeshore Drive with the subject of turning lanes raising its head again.