Media Release: Council Imposes Penalties Due to Breach of Code of Conduct

The Town of Smiths Falls is providing an update following the review of comments made by Councillor Jay Brennan after the January 5, 2026, Council meeting.

On January 12, 2025, Committee of the Whole reviewed the audio recording of the meeting and heard from the involved parties. As part of the review, Councillor Brennan expressed deep remorse and regret for his comments and has publicly apologized to Council, Town staff, and the residents of Smiths Falls.

Following its review, the Committee determined that the comments constituted a breach of the Town’s Code of Conduct. This finding was not disputed by either Councillor Brennan or Councillor Robinson, who was also found to have breached the Code in relation to text message communications. As a result, Council passed a motion to impose sanctions related to breaches of the Town of Smiths Falls Code of Conduct. Based on these findings, Councillor Jay Brennan will be suspended from Council and Committee meetings for 45 days with pay, and Councillor Stephen Robinson will be suspended from Council and Committee meetings for 15 days with pay. Municipal Council’s in Ontario do not have authority to impose financial penalties on members of Council in the absence of an Integrity Commissioner recommendation.

“I acknowledge the findings and accept the outcome. I am deeply disappointed in myself and embarrassed by the incident. I respect Council’s decision and will comply fully”, said Councillor Brennan.

Mayor Pankow noted that Council collectively agreed a breach of the Code of Conduct occurred and exercised its responsibility to review, discuss, and determine an appropriate outcome. “Council has had a thorough and respectful discussion on this matter. We have received the acknowledgements and apologies that were required, imposed sanctions to the extent of our authority, and are now prepared to move forward by continuing to serve the community.”
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Media Contact
Joanne Plontz
Communications and Marketing Coordinator
77 Beckwith Street N, Box 695
Smiths Falls, ON K7A 2B8
613-283-4124 ext. 1122
Communications@smithsfalls.ca