Chair provides statement on trustee censure

Limestone Learning Foundation
Chair provides statement on trustee censure
Posted on 09/13/2018
Image of Statement from the Board Chair graphicStatement from Limestone District School Board Chair Paula Murray:

Trustee Mahoney was not permitted to address the Limestone District School Board of Trustees during its regular board meeting on Sept. 12, 2018 due to sanctions barring him from all meetings of the Board until the end of the current term. These sanctions are as a result of multiple censures for inappropriate behaviour which is in contravention of multiple policies, and is disrespectful to staff and to the integrity of the role of Trustee.

The Limestone District School Board Trustee Code of Conduct (LDSB Policy 5) contributes to confidence in public education and respect for the integrity of Trustees in the community. It deals with acceptable and respectful behaviours. The Code of Conduct and the enforcement procedures apply to all Trustees of the Board.
When dealing with code of conduct violations, the Board employs a progressive discipline model for all members including Trustees, employees and students.

In 2017, Trustee Mahoney received two cautions for behaviour in contravention of the Trustee Code of Conduct, and was warned that further infractions could result in censure and sanction. The subsequent motions (see attached) were passed following the initial two cautions. Given Trustee Mahoney had already been barred from one meeting in late 2017 as a result of a Trustee Code of Conduct violation, the Board imposed additional exclusion of meetings to underline the significant and serious nature of his actions.

As part of his notice of censure on May 30, 2018, Trustee Mahoney was provided the opportunity to address the Board of Trustees regarding his censure. The Board has not received any correspondence from Trustee Mahoney as of Sept. 13, 2018.

Trustee Mahoney continues to be a sitting Trustee with the Limestone District School Board. His censure prevents him from attending Board and Board Committee meetings only. He remains available to his constituents. His constituents may still contact him regarding concerns. Should it be required, these concerns may be forwarded to the Board Chair or the Director of Education for action as is our regular practice.

The Limestone District School Board expects its members to demonstrate ethical, respectful and professional conduct. The Board takes all code of conduct violations seriously and will always take appropriate actions as required.

The Limestone District School Board is situated on traditional territories of the Anishinaabe & Haudenosaunee.