York Region hires ombudsman

Yorkregion.com
Dec. 31, 2015

Got a beef with York Region?

Council has appointed ADR Chambers Inc. as its ombudsman, which acts as an office of last resort for the public to bring forward unresolved complaints when all other processes have been exhausted.

Beginning Jan. 1, the ombudsman, which acts at arms’ length from council, will independently receive, review and investigate complaints, provide periodic updates as a result of investigations and produce an annual report of its activities.

“York Region is committed to providing transparent, responsive and efficient public service. Our track record speaks for itself,” chair Wayne Emmerson said in a statement.

Beginning in 2016, the Ontario ombudsman’s jurisdiction will include municipalities.

At the same time, councils have the authority to appoint their own ombudsman.

“We believe a locally appointed ombudsman is better positioned to address complaints and recommend a course of action based on the local context of the communities we serve,” Emmerson said.

ADR Chambers Inc. has more than 20 years of experience providing mediation, arbitration and investigation services for the public and private sectors.

It is certified by the federal government as one of two approved external complaint bodies for the financial services sector in Canada.