A crowd of about 75 to 90 protesters gathered on the steps of town hall Monday evening before council shouting “we want answers,” and holding signs calling for resignations from council members.
The rally attendees filed into council chambers minutes before the meeting began, continuing the chant as Mayor Sandra Cooper walked in to take her seat.
The demonstration came in response to news about recently unsealed police documents revealing details of an ongoing police investigation into alleged fraud and breach of trust by both Paul Bonwick (Mayor Sandra Cooper’s brother and a former MP) and former acting CAO of Collingwood Ed Houghton.
Bonwick received a $750,000 consulting fee via his company Green Leaf Consulting from BLT Construction, which is the contractor hired by the town to build two Sprung structures now housing Central Park Arena and Centennial pool.
No charges have been laid, but OPP confirmed the investigation is ongoing.
The investigation centres around a deal between the town and a contractor for the two fabric membrane structures that now serve as Centennial pool and Central Park arena.
“I think the mayor should resign,” said Collingwood resident and rally attendee Andy Hims. “To me, there’s a conflict of interest if you don’t disclose your brother is working for the company. You should disclose it, then it’s out there.”
Denise Ranger, also a Collingwood Resident, was at the rally, too, and said this has inspired her to be more informed about local politics.
“I’ve been a little more a-political, I’m just getting more involved,” she said. “I think we could be smarter with the money they collect through our taxes.”
She was at the rally to get clarity and answers to questions.
“We are here, we do care, and we want answers,” she said. “I’d like clarity on where they spent money. The payment to the mayor’s brother could be valid, but the process was neglected.”
Mayor Cooper began the council meeting by delivering a statement.
“I have a deep respect for the taxpayers of Collingwood,” she started, but her next line was overpowered by jeers. “I have the utmost respect for democracy.”
Cooper said her father served the town as a member of town council and members of his family before him, and added she was proud of her heritage.
“I was not aware of any family member involvement in the purchase,” said Cooper to more, loud booing. “I will continue to cooperate with OPP, and ensure the investigation is transparent.”
The council meeting moved forward and Deputy Mayor Saunderson was the first to address the crowd.
“We need to hear from you and we will listen to you,” he said, encouraging them to speak at the meeting. “But as the meeting goes on, we expect the same respect from you. Thank you.”
