Robert Swayze's contract as the city's integrity commissioner has been extended.
Sarnia council endorsed a recommendation from the city clerk Monday, to lengthen the agreement, set to expire in June, to March 1, 2019.
Councillor Matt Mitro felt the extension made sense.
"His rates are good," said Mitro. "Obviously there has been use in this past year, by the public in this case. I don't see why you would change mid-game, so to speak, the player. We decided we want to have one. He's the logical choice."
Councillor Mike Kelch voted against the recommendation.
"We're talking about the integrity commissioner being well used, I think success for us will be the day when it's never used," said Kelch, who wanted the feasibility of a partnership with the county integrity commissioner explored first.
Councillor Dave Boushy and Mayor Mike Bradley also voted against the recommendation.
All Ontario municipalities will be required to have an integrity commissioner on retainer by next March.
Staff will issue a request for proposals in December recognizing the new roles and responsibilities of an integrity commissioner for the next four-year term commencing March 2, 2019.
