Whitby mayoral candidates say how they'd end council infighting

Whitby's mayoral candidates were asked how the next mayor can cut down on council fighting in the new term, answering in 100 words each in a Whitby This Week questionnaire published Oct. 20, six days before the Oct. 26 municipal election.

Chris Leahy said the current administration has 'perpetuated a culture of fear,' referencing a council vote to sanction him one month's pay following what he called a traffic matter. He said he would do it again for causes like crossing guards on Dryden and speed limit reductions, and said he would never file a complaint against a fellow councillor, preferring to 'resolve our differences over coffee.'

Harshini Rajmohan said she would focus on respect, communication and accountability, addressing conflicts early and keeping disagreement professional and policy-focused.

Elizabeth Roy said every councillor is responsible for their own conduct, noting council has addressed 'repeated code of conduct violations,' and said she would lead by example through listening, respectful debate and accurate information. Whitby votes in person or by mail only; there is no online or telephone voting in the town.