Item - 2010.EX41.3

The Executive Committee requested the City Manager:

1.         To report to the Executive Committee on the availability of an insurance product that provides candidate protection.

2.          In consultation with outside Legal Counsel, to consider in his report, a policy, as follows:

“In recognition of the fundamental role, that the protection of democratic elections has to this City Government, Council authorize the use of its grant making power to protect Members of Council from the cost of legal fees in circumstances where there are reasonable grounds to believe that legal proceedings are occurring by virtue of the Members election, and/or, because of inconsistencies and loopholes in relevant laws, regardless of the date the matter being litigated occurred.”

In its consideration to reimburse certain legal expenses incurred by Councillors while candidates in the 2006 Municipal Election, City Council requested a report to the March 1, 2010 Executive Committee on creating a candidate protection fund.

In the time available in response to Council’s request, staff have reviewed possible options to protect candidates for costs arising from the 2010 Municipal Election which include establishing a fund and private independent insurance coverage.

A subsequent report to the June, 2010 Executive Committee meeting will be submitted by the City Manager on providing candidate protection.