Integrity Commissioner Finds Mayor Jeff Leal Twice Breaching Code of Conduct; However Pickleball Decisions Did Not Involve 'Private Advantage'

Guy Giorno, Peterborough Integrity Commissioner, has found that Mayor Jeff Leal has twice breached the City Council’s Code of Conduct, as reported on Thursday.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The 55-page inquiry report, released Monday by Giorno, states that Leal breached the City Council’s code of conduct twice by intimidating Councillor Alex Bierk and bullying Councillor Joy Lachica regarding the Bonnerworth Park redevelopment of new pickleball courts.

There were eight complaints filed after the April 2 General Committee meeting, when Leal allegedly made a threat to Bierk. The statement in question is when Leal stated he would ‘carve Councillor Bierk like a Thanksgiving turkey’ and that he’d ‘regret’ having said that since Leal’s decision-making regarding pickleball courts were a conflict of interest and was ‘not impartial.’

The statement was made after a mention of Leal’s wife, Karan, a member of the Peterborough Pickleball Association, during the discussion. Five more complaints were made after Leal’s public apology on April 8.

Former Peterborough Mayor Diane Therrien-Hale, Zachary Hatton, Laurie Breese, Jill Staveley, Sarah Byer, Martha Jansenberger, James Anderson, Allison Potts, Ryan Perks, Rob Hailman, Courtney Seddon, John Gerelus and former Green Party provincial candidate Robert Gibson filed the collective complaints.

The ‘turkey’ comment, expressed figuratively, was not intended or interpreted as a threat of violence or physical harm. The ‘regret’ and ‘turkey’ mentions are considered intimidation according to section 10 of the Code.

However, Giorno’s report stated that Leal did not breach section 29 of the Code. The Integrity Commissioner determined that the Mayor’s decision-making on Bonnerworth Park did not involve a private advantage for him or his wife.

The findings determined that:

“The argument that the Mayor could not take part in the decision on Bonnerworth Park is as flawed as an argument that swimmers cannot participate in decisions on pools and hockey players cannot vote on ice pads.”

The second investigation involved the filed complaint by Lachica. The incident alleges that Leal bullied and intimidated her, out of the public’s view, after the April 2nd General Committee meeting.

The report stated the following:

“The incident in the corridor occurred in the context of a power imbalance that is a hallmark of bullying. The Mayor is more powerful than a Councillor. In a strictly legal sense, this has been the case since October 31st, 2023, when Ontario Regulation 331/23 added Peterborough to the list of municipalities subject to strong mayor powers. The Mayor’s powers include the direct appointment of the chairs and vice-chairs of committees.”

As a result, the report finds that Leal violated section 10 of the Code of Conduct relating to Lachica.

City Council has the option to impose one of two penalties (but not both) on Leal as a result of his violations: a reprimand or a pay suspension (up to 90 days).

Leal made this statement following the report:

“I acknowledge that the Integrity Commissioner has completed his report, and I will accept Council’s decision on this matter.

I appreciate that his report fully exonerates me of the most egregious and false conflict-of-interest allegations that my family and I have been subjected to over the last year.

I acknowledge his findings related to my interactions with Councillors Bierk and Lachica on the nights of April 2 and April 8, 2024. My comments were made in the heat of the moment, during the most hostile meeting environments I have experienced in all my years of public service. I regret my comments, and I apologized to both Councillors last year.

I will recuse myself from the Chamber when my colleagues discuss the Integrity Commissioner’s report, and will accept their recommendations.

I have been working in partnership with all members of Peterborough City Council, and will continue to do so for the benefit of our community.”

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Ontario Government Plans to Cut Gas Tax; Proposing Taking Tolls Off Highway 407 East

The Ontario government plans to permanently cut the gasoline and fuel tax rates and proposes to remove tolls from the provincially-owned areas of Highway 407 East, announced on Tuesday.

Photo courtesy of the Ontario Government.

The gas tax is estimated to save about $115 per year and the proposed toll removal would save daily commuters roughly $7,200 annually according to Doug Ford, Ontario Premier.

“I know that families and business owners are worried about rising costs, especially as U.S. tariffs threaten to raise the price of everyday essentials,” he’s aid. “That’s why we’re cutting the gas tax permanently and taking tolls off Highway 407 East, and that’s why we’ll always keep looking for ways to put more money back into the pockets of Ontario families.”

The proposals are through the Ontario government, which is introducing legislation through its 2025 Budget. If passed, it would permanently cut the gas and fuel tax rate, resulting in provincial tax rates at nine cents per litre.

“Ontario families have seen prices on everyday items go up over the last several years,” said Peter Bethlenfalvy, Minister of Finance. “To help Ontarians cope with the high cost of living and the impacts of the economic uncertainty caused by tariffs, we are continuing to take action to ease the pressure and do more to help lower costs for households.”

The provincial government is also introducing legislation to permanently remove tolls on Highway 407, from Brock Road to Highway 35/115, effective June 1. This is the last stretch of Ontario's provincially owned and tolled highway. It follows the government’s previous removal of tolls from Highways 412 and 418 and its recent legislation banning new road tolls on any public roadway in Ontario.

“Our government is making it easier and more affordable for Ontarians to get where they need to go, when they need to get there,” said Prabmeet Sarkaria, Minister of Transportation. “The measures announced today will not only help to reduce traffic and commute times, but they will help put money back in the pockets of hardworking families at a time when it matters most. This is another step in our work to protect Ontario by building a more efficient, affordable and accessible transportation network.”

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Mayor Jeff Leal Congratulates Liberal MP-Elect Emma Harrison On Election Victory

After the results of last night’s federal election, Mayor Jeff Leal has congratulated Liberal candidate and MP-Elect Emma Harrison for winning the Peterborough seat from Monday night.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Leal was briefly in attendance at Harrison’s election party at the Canadian Canoe Museum when the latter made her entrance, moments after she was declared the winner of her respective riding.

Leal also served as MPP for the former Peterborough-Kawartha riding (now Peterborough) for four terms from 2003 to 2018 under the Liberal Party.

The following is a statement released by Leal:

On behalf of the City of Peterborough, I offer my sincere congratulations to Emma Harrison on being elected as the Member of Parliament for the riding of Peterborough.

I also want to thank Michelle Ferreri for her service as the Member of Parliament for the riding of Peterborough – Kawartha.

Our community faces important challenges and opportunities, including the need for more housing, investments in critical infrastructure, support for local economic growth, and partnerships that strengthen services for our residents.

We look forward to working with MP Harrison to ensure that federal policies and programs support the needs of communities like Peterborough.

We wish her every success as she begins this important work on behalf of our community.

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Liberal Candidate Emma Harrison Named MP-Elect For Peterborough In Federal Election

There’s a new sheriff in town as Liberal Party candidate Emma Harrison has been elected the Member of Parliament of the Peterborough riding, as she celebrated her victory at the Canadian Canoe Museum on Monday night.

Andy Mitchell, campaign manager (left), celebrates Emma Harrison's (right) victory for the Liberal Party, unseating incumbent Michelle Ferreri. All Photos by David Tuan Bui.

Harrison defeated incumbent and Conservative candidate Michelle Ferrari with 36,772 votes (52.6 per cent) to the latter’s 29,865 votes (42.7 per cent).

The MP-elect was named the Liberal Party candidate on March 22 and had 37 days to campaign before the election. In addition to crediting her campaign staff, Harrison noted that she put in the work to hear the concerns of her constituents, which ultimately led to her election.

“Working tirelessly, listening, showing up and asking questions on what the people are concerned about,” she explained.

Harrison’s win was not the only vital win for the Liberals, as Mark Carney was elected as Prime Minister with a minority government.

“It's what we need right now. We need a Mark Carney-led government, absolutely,” explained Harrison. “He is the perfect person for this time, we've said it over and over again, it is a critical election and we are so lucky to have him.”

A Selwyn resident, Harrison is a third-generation farmer and small business owner, operating her family farm alongside her husband, Peterborough paramedic Connor, and their children. While she has no prior political experience, Harrison said that fact will ‘absolutely not’ deter her from getting the job done.

“I have a tremendous amount of life experience that's going to lend itself beautifully to this role, like it did in the campaign,” she explained.

The following were the results of the Peterborough Riding:

• Emma Harrison (Liberal) - 37,802 votes (52.5 per cent)

• Michelle Ferreri (Conservative) - 30,734 votes (42.7 per cent)

• Heather Ray (NDP) - 2,187 votes (3 per cent)

• Jazmine Raine (Green Party) - 602 votes (0.8 per cent)

• Jami-Leigh McMaster (PPC) - 258 votes (0.4 per cent)

• Chad Jewell (Ind) - 210 votes (0.3 per cent)

• Matthew Grove (CHP) 155 votes (0.2 per cent)

The following were the results of the federal election:

• Liberals - 163 seats (minority government)

• Conservative - 149 seats

• Bloc Québécois - 23 seats

• New Democrats - seven seats

• Green Party - one seat

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Photos: Local Candidates Mingle With Constituents At Peterborough Chamber's "Coffee With the Candidates" Event

The Peterborough-Kawartha federal election candidates got a chance to mingle with their constituents at the Peterborough and the Kawartha Chamber of Commerce’s ‘Coffee with the Candidates’ event held at the Holiday Inn on Tuesday morning.

Conservative candidate and incumbent Michelle Ferrari (left) being thanked by Joel Wiebe (right) of the Peterborough Chamber for attending. All photos by David Tuan Bui.

Each candidate had three minutes at the podium to speak to the room before breaking off to speak with the public.

The attending candidates briefly spoke about the following during their podium time (in order):

Chad Jewell (Independent): Regardless of who was in power, no party had answers to raising concerns and issues.

Emma Harrison (Liberal): She highlighted her upbringing which attributes to her hard work ethic. She also highlighted the importance of small businesses and their impact. However, her speech was cut short due after going over the time limit.

Michelle Ferreri (Conservative): Addressed homelessness, increased crime and drug addiction as significant issues that require tackling. Emphasized the housing crisis and says the party is working to cut GST on homes and development fees.

Heather Ray (NDP): Highlighted her past work history and emphasized protecting small businesses.

Jami-Leigh McMaster (PPC): Criticized over promises made by past governments and trading children’s futures for virtue-signalling and economic benefits. She said she does not expect to win but wants to help draw eyes to her party and the issues they want to address.

Jazmine Raine (Green): Gave a timeline of her work and school history, highlighting her journey of finding answers as she does not feel her questions or concerns are heard. She also remarks on how voters feel disenchanted when voting because of the lack of real choice on the ballot. She also briefly wanted to fight for improved healthcare funding and instill a universal basic income.

Matthew Grove (Christian Heritage Party of Canada) was absent from the event.

Election day is April 28 and advanced voting starts this Friday until Monday.

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Mayor Jeff Leal Issues Apology For Quoting a Racial Slur During Lecture at Trent University

Peterborough Mayor Jeff Leal is apologizing for using a racial slur during a lecture at Trent University.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The incident occurred when Leal spoke as a guest lecturer and quoted former United States president Lyndon B. Johnson while he was a congressman in the 1930s.

Leal released the following statement:

During a recent guest lecture at Trent University, I quoted a historical remark attributed to former U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson from his time as a congressman in the 1930s. In doing so, the quote that I used included a racial slur that is deeply offensive and hurtful.

I sincerely apologize. Regardless of the context or intent, using that word was wrong. I recognize the pain it carries and the responsibility I have to speak with care and respect. I apologize to Trent students and faculty, to Trent University, and to my community.

I believe in building a welcoming and inclusive community. I did not contribute to the betterment of my community when I used that quote – when I said those words.

I am committed to listening, learning, and doing better.

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Ontario Raising Minimum Wage On Oct. 1

In an effort to support workers and businesses, the Ontario government is increasing the minimum wage from $17.20 to $17.60 an hour effective Oct. 1.

Screenshot.

This annualized wage increase of 2.4 per cent, based on the Ontario Consumer Price Index (CPI), will bring Ontario’s minimum wage to the second-highest provincial rate in Canada.

“Our government will continue to have the backs of Ontario workers, investing in skills training and development and helping ensure that work pays,” said David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “Ontario’s minimum wage remains one of the highest in the country. Now more than ever, workers and businesses need fair, balanced and predictable wages.”

The provincial government says these changes will result in an annual pay increase of up to $835.00 for a worker making the general minimum wage and working 40 hours per week. Under the Employment Standards Act, Ontario’s minimum wage increases annually based on the Ontario CPI, a measure of inflation that represents changes in prices experienced by Ontario consumers.

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Liberal Party Name Emma Harrison As Federal Candidate For Peterborough Riding

The Liberal Party acclaimed Emma Harrison as its Peterborough candidate for the upcoming federal election, announced on Saturday.

Photo courtesy of the Liberal Party of Canada.

The Selwyn resident is a third-generation farmer and a small business owner. She operates her family farm alongside her husband and Peterborough paramedic, Connor with their children.

“I am thrilled to be the Liberal Candidate for Peterborough,” said Harrison. “I intend to be an MP who builds bridges instead of creating division, who understands that community has to come first instead of partisanship, and who will represent everyone, not just those who voted for me.”

Lauren Hunter, Peterborough Federal Liberal Association Chair, endorses the party’s decision and believes Harrison is fit to represent the riding.

“We are grateful to have such a thoughtful, caring, and practical candidate in Emma, and we are confident she will be an excellent representative for Peterborough,” she said. “As our country faces unprecedented threats, now is the time to unite behind a candidate who can help build a stronger Canada.”

Harrison will challenge incumbent Conservative MP Michelle Ferreri and NDP’s Heather Ray. The Green Party has yet to declare a candidate.

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“I Stand With Leaders From Across the Country In Opposing the Unjustified Tariffs Placed On Canada," Mayor Jeff Leal Releases Statement Regarding American Tariffs On Canada

With a 25 per cent tariff imposed on Canada by Donand Trump, United States President, that took effect Tuesday, Jeff Leal, Peterborough Mayor, has issued a statement in opposition.

Photo by David Tuan bui.

The following is Leal’s full statement regarding the tariffs:

I stand with leaders from across the country in opposing the unjustified tariffs placed on Canada. These tariffs are not only detrimental to the Canadian economy but to the American economy, as well. Tariffs hurt workers, businesses, consumers, families and residents on both sides of the border.

The City of Peterborough is working closely with partners, other municipalities and community leaders to assess the local impact of tariffs and to advocate for our community.

Yesterday, I joined municipal leaders from across Eastern Ontario in condemning the United States government’s decision to impose trade tariffs. As the Chair of the Eastern Ontario Leadership Council (EOLC), I joined the Chairs of the Eastern Ontario Wardens’ Caucus (EOWC) and Eastern Ontario Mayors’ Caucus (EOMC) to represent nearly one quarter of Ontario’s municipalities which includes over 1.1 million residents. Each year, approximately $42.5 billion of total private sector exports from Eastern Ontario goes to other jurisdictions outside the region. As an engine of activity for the province and the nation, Eastern Ontario municipal leaders strongly condemn these tariffs and have been mobilizing to respond to these trade threats.

Here in Peterborough, we know that these exports reflect numerous sectors. We are taking the potential impacts seriously.

As the Mayor of the City of Peterborough, I am committed to working to protect and support our local economy. Peterborough businesses play a critical role in our community. I have appreciated the input and expertise shared by Peterborough businesses as we navigate this situation. A number of weeks ago, Warden Bonnie Clark and I gathered with members of the Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce on to hear directly from local businesses about impacts and opportunities in our region. We will be behind local businesses and support them as much as possible.

As a municipality, we will also continue our work to find ways to play an active and supportive role at this time. Last week, Peterborough City Council unanimously approved a motion to confirm City of Peterborough’s support for Team Canada. As part of this motion, City staff were directed to bring back a report detailing a temporary procurement policy to reflect an interest in preferring Canadian companies and services to the greatest extent possible.

The City of Peterborough is committed to protecting local businesses and ensuring our economy remains strong. I encourage all residents of Peterborough to support local businesses and products, whenever possible.”

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MPP Dave Smith Gets Three-Peat and Is Elected For Third Consecutive Term For Conservative Party

Peterborough-Kawartha MPP Dave Smith has reached the political three-peat as was elected for a third term representing the PC Party after the provincial election held on Thursday.

Smith wins a third-consecutive term for the PC Party. John Melville Turner (1977-1987) was the last Conservative member to win three-straight terms. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Smith won the riding with 40.5 per cent of the votes (22,383). This was an increase from 38.5 per cent (20,188 votes) in his last election in 2022. He beat Liberal Party candidate Adam Hopkins, who had 36.4 per cent of the votes (20,135) as the runner-up.

“It is truly an honour to be able to do this. I've said it multiple times, I owe a debt to the people of Ontario that I can only repay by doing something like this, by giving back to our community,” exclaimed Smith. “I really appreciate the people of this area have decided they'll put their trust in me for four more years. To be able to move the needle so that we have a better place for all of us to live in.”

Smith held his election party at the Peterborough Golf & Country Club and had roughly 80 people in attendance. He was declared the winner roughly 80 minutes after the polls had closed, securing his third term. Premier Doug Ford was re-elected to a third term six minutes after polls closed and immediately had a majority government declared.

“When people take a look at the hard work that we've put into it, what we've tried to accomplish, the steps that we have taken so far, the groundwork has been laid,” explained Smith. “We have help coming and we have things starting to make a difference now.”

As Smith remains MPP, he says it’s obvious that healthcare needs to be worked on but employment opportunities are an even greater priority.

“We saw 3,900 jobs that could have come to this area because we did not have the appropriate land for it. We also had an agricultural company that came to look at it, they needed 65 acres of land. The largest that we had was 44. That company chose to go another location as a result of it,” explained Smith. “We need to have to find a way to have more employment land available so that when we have those opportunities to bring a company here, they actually decide this is the location for them.”

Despite Peterborough having a college and university, many graduates are not staying in town for work; something that needs to change according to Smith.

“We need to reverse that trend,” he said. “That's one of the main things we'll be working on the next four years.”

When asked about the people that did not vote for him, Smith says he’s happy they exercised their right to vote and he is willing to listen to their concerns.

“My door is always open, please feel free to reach out to us, talk to me about what your issues are,” he said. “If it's something that we can help with that's going to make a positive difference, we are going to take every opportunity then to look at that and make this place a better place for everyone.”

The following were the results of the Peterborough-Kawartha Riding:

• Dave Smith (Conservative) - 22,383 votes (40.5 per cent)

• Adam Hopkins (Liberal) - 20,135 votes (36.4 per cent)

• Jen Deck (New Democratic) - 9,480 votes (17.1 per cent)

• Lucas Graham (Green Party) - 1,738 votes (3.1 per cent)

• Andrew Roudny (New Blue) - 864 votes (1.6 per cent)

• Brian Martindale (Ontario Party) - 684 votes (1.2 per cent)

Smith (left) beign congratulated by Hopkins (right) moments after the former was declared the winner of the provincial election.

Hopkins made a brief visit congratulating Smith’s win. He is newer to the political world, being elected two weeks prior to the election. Despite being unable to defeat Smith, he was happy with the results since he was named the Liberal Party candidate in a short amount of time. He said he didn’t know how it was going to go or had a lot of confidence to start but it grew quickly with the election results since the Liberals gained some seats and regained official party status as a result with 14 (12 being the official threshold).

“There's some good numbers and we've got some momentum behind some additional seats,” he said.

Liberal Party Leader Bonnie Crombie lost her Mississauga East-Cooksville riding to PC Party candidate Silvia Gualtieri by a vote count of 46.5 percent (16,763) to 43.1 per cent (15,536).

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