A formal investigation has been launched into three closed-door meetings in the Town of Petrolia.
The Independent has learned officials from the Ontario Ombudsman’s office told town officials last week that it has launched a formal investigation into three in camera meetings; one each in September, October and November.
Under Ontario’s Municipal Act, councils may hold private meetings – called closed doors or in camera meetings – under very specific circumstances.
The Independent filed the first formal complaint after an Oct. 25 in camera meeting. Immediately after the meeting, town council agreed, without discussion, to move ahead with public consultation on the concept of contracting the YMCA to run the Oil Heritage District Community Centre.
The concept had not been discussed in public and town officials told The Independent discussions with the YMCA had been going on for months in private.

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