Mayor Harrison's statement regarding Councillor Noel's comments on social media

DRYDEN, ON – June 19, 2024

First and foremost, I want to express my deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the Eagle Lake First Nations member who recently passed away as they grieve her loss.

As for the comments made by Councillor Noel on social media, regardless of intent, they do not represent the City of Dryden’s Council, nor staff at the municipality.

I spoke with Chief Wabange of Eagle Lake First Nation yesterday. I expressed Council’s sympathies and reconfirmed our commitment to strengthen our relationship with the First Nation. I have reached out to her again today in response to the councillor’s public comments.

Further, I am in discussions with Councillor Noel on steps to move forward.

Our Council and City staff value and respect every member of our community. We have committed to delivering services with courtesy and integrity every day. Along with transparency and fiscal responsibility, these values are embedded in our Mission Statement.

As a result of his recent actions and behaviour, I am putting forward two motions at Monday’s Council meeting. The first is to remove Councillor Noel as a member of The Working Circle Committee. The second is to seek approval to engage the Integrity Commissioner to formally review the councillor’s conduct and to advise what other actions this Council can take.

Members of Council are held to a high standard and should be a role model for respect and compassion in every engagement, in person or online. It is very upsetting the recent remarks reflect badly on this Council and the City, and we remain steadfast in doing all we can to uphold the commitments we made when this community elected us to office.

Mayor Jack Harrison

City of Dryden

mayor@dryden.ca

807-223-6119

Attachments

Media Release - Mayor Harrison statement on Councillor Noel social media comments 2024