Representing the residents of Whitby around the Council Table is a privilege, and one I take very seriously. I have zero tolerance for unparliamentary language being used on the Council floor. This kind of behaviour undermines the public’s trust with local government. If members of Council have concerns about decisions or policies, they are welcome to bring those to the Council floor for discussion. I welcome having respectful discussions, disagreements, and even differences of opinion, this is what helps make our Town stronger. But making these very serious and unfounded accusations goes against our Council Code of Conduct. Which is why I was so shocked that a member of Council would insinuate that race has anything to do with making decisions around the Council Table regarding the appointment of Deputy Mayor. I took immediate action and asked this member of Council to apologize or leave Council Chambers, which they refused to do. As a result, Council voted 6-3 to adjourn the meeting this evening. I’m disappointed by this Councillor’s self-serving pattern of unacceptable behaviour continuing during this term of Council. My expectation is all our Council Members take our Code of Conduct seriously, and we can get back to the Council Table and serving the residents of Whitby, which is what we were elected to do.