Investigator John Fleming is returning to Petrolia Tuesday to probe a conflict between staff and a member of council, The Independent has learned.

Fleming was first appointed by Petrolia’s Integrity Commissioner in 2017 to investigate after The Independent revealed the then Chief Administrative Officer owned two buildings being rented by the town for storage and a youth centre.

Fleming is coming to Petrolia again this week to investigate an internal conflict.

While Petrolia Mayor Brad Loosley would not comment on the investigation, saying the matter was dealt with behind closed doors, The Independent has learned Fleming will arrive at town hall Tuesday to interview members of staff and council about a matter which was hashed over in a private meeting of council Sept. 13.

At that time, council met privately for over an hour. When the in camera meeting was done, the mayor reported publicly, according to the meeting minutes;

“Council was advised of a recent event regarding a staff/council relations concern. Mayor Loosley spoke to the concern. Council is reminded of the Council Code of Conduct and the staff/council relations policies in place. Our CAO will be reviewing policies and procedures with staff. Council have directed the CAO, who is ultimately responsible for staff to gather further information and report back to council when able.”

It’s not clear how long the investigation will take nor whether the issues surrounding the conflict will be revealed by council.