Investigation Report: Ombudsman Act – Rural Municipality of Rockwood
investigations & monitoring
municipal / local body
Summary
Property owners contacted our office about actions and decisions of the RM of Rockwood related to music festivals and retreats held on adjacent agricultural zoned land. The RM issued temporary development permits for the events but did not enforce noise restrictions outlined in the permit conditions. The ombudsman concluded that if the RM was stipulating conditions in its temporary development permits, it should take steps to ensure it has the ability to enforce all conditions on behalf of its residents. The ombudsman recommended that the RM put in place a framework to guide decision making related to deploying enforcement resources and it should post the framework on its website. The property owners also believed that there may have been a conflict of interest on the part of a council member because his spouse publicly supported these events. While there was no financial gain for the council member or his spouse, there may have been the perception of a conflict of interest. The ombudsman suggested that the RM ensure its elected officials are aware of their responsibilities under its Council Members’ Code of Conduct Policy and that it consider further training in this area.
Case 2018-0311