Whitby Town Council voted 7-1 on April 20, 2026, to suspend Regional Councillor Chris Leahy for one month without pay after an investigation found he breached the municipal code of conduct twice. This marks the second time during the current council term that the councillor has been found in violation of conduct rules.
The investigation, conducted by the town’s integrity commissioner firm, Principles Integrity, identified two specific incidents in late 2025. The first involved videos posted to social media regarding a local speed limit sign that encouraged public distrust of town staff. The second incident was a confrontation with staff at the BIA Christmas Market in November 2025, which was determined to be disrespectful and hostile.
Councillor Leahy has denied any wrongdoing and has not offered an apology for his conduct. At the same meeting where the suspension was finalized, he announced his resignation as regional councillor and confirmed his intention to run for mayor of Whitby in the municipal election this October.
This suspension follows a previous breach in October 2024, when Councillor Leahy and former councillor Steve Yamada made unfounded allegations of racism against Mayor Elizabeth Roy, other members of council, and town staff. That incident resulted in both councillors receiving a one-week pay suspension in March 2025.
In response to these ongoing issues, Mayor Elizabeth Roy has introduced a motion calling on the Province of Ontario to create stronger sanctions for ethical violations by municipal officials. The proposed measures include the ability to permanently disqualify elected officials from holding office for serious breaches such as coercion, intimidation, or misuse of office. The Town of Whitby has spent approximately $100,000 during this term investigating various allegations against the mayor, all of which were ultimately determined to be unfounded.
Chief Administrative Officer Matt Gaskell noted in a statement following the vote that respectful conduct toward town staff is not optional, emphasizing the importance of professional standards in local government.
