Final ethics probe report on former Vaughan councillor Di Biase postponed

YorkRegion.com
June 19, 2017
Adam Martin-Robbins

Vaughan’s ethics watchdog is postponing the release of her final findings from an investigation into allegations former deputy mayor Michael Di Biase improperly used his influence to help a local developer.

Integrity commissioner Suzanne Craig was expected to present a final report detailing the findings from her latest probe into Di Biase’s conduct June 20, but in a communication posted on the city’s website June 16, Craig said “in the interest of fairness” she is providing Di Biase with a copy of the final report prior to submitting it for council’s consideration.

It’s now slated to be presented to councillors June 27 at 9:30 a.m.

In an interim report, posted on the city’s website June 13, Craig outlines her preliminary findings, suggesting Di Biase tried to improperly influence decision making at city council and the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) to help a developer get the necessary approvals to build homes on an environmentally sensitive parcel of land in Maple.

The developer behind the project, Cam Milani, isn't named in the report and there’s nothing in the report to suggest he did anything wrong.

Craig declined to discuss her findings until after the final report is presented to councillors.

Reached for comment, Di Biase said the allegations "are totally unfounded and untrue", adding he will fully explain his side publicly once the integrity commissioner releases her final report.

The integrity commissioner’s latest probe of Di Biase’s conduct comes while the city is embarking on a process to appoint a member of the public to fill his vacant local and regional council seat.

Di Biase, a veteran councilor and former mayor, stepped down following the May 18 release of an explosive report by Craig that found he sexually harassed a city employee for several months last year.

He vehemently denied the allegations.

Timeline: Michael Di Biase’s departure

May 18 – Di Biase denies allegations, but resigns after integrity commissioner finds he sexually harassed city employee.

June 5 – Council votes to appoint member of public to replace Di Biase to avoid costly byelection.

June 13 – Integrity commissioner releases interim report suggesting Di Biase improperly used influence to help developer.

June 22 – Deadline to submit applications for those looking to fill Di Biase’s local and regional council seat.

June 27 – Integrity commissioner to release final report regarding allegations Di Biase improperly used influence to help developer.

June 28 — Special council meeting to be held at city hall to choose Di Biase’s successor.