Integrity Commissioner Review

Background

Odette Bartnicki requested a meeting with two Town committee appointees to discuss behaviour toward her that witnesses had reported. She asked a staff member to take notes.

The parties apologized and shook hands. The CAO later confirmed by email that no further action was required. Bartnicki agreed to a request that the meeting notes be destroyed. A formal complaint was made several weeks later.

Findings

Rule 8 — Respect for the Role of Staff

The Commissioner found that asking a staff member to take notes was contrary to the requirement that direction to staff go through the CAO. The report also states that the conduct was not intended to interfere with staff’s professional role and was not an attempt to improperly influence staff. Bartnicki acknowledged the error and apologized.

Rule 13 — Discrimination and Harassment

The Commissioner found a breach concerning how the May 27 meeting was conducted, described it as a “relatively minor transgression,” and recommended a reprimand.

Context and policy

The Commissioner found it reasonable for Bartnicki to believe that she had been treated disrespectfully based on witness accounts. The report also noted the broader context of concerning Facebook posts about her.

At the time, the Town’s policy encouraged parties to attempt informal conflict resolution before making a formal complaint. Following the investigation, the Commissioner recommended clearer guidance and policy definitions.