I believe that O’Brien — as a private citizen — is innocent until proven guilty. I also believe, however, that the power and responsibility of the Mayor’s office demands the highest level of integrity, and must be protected from even the suspicion of criminal acts and actors. The recent criminal charges filed against O’Brien raise significant questions of integrity that, until fully resolved, are incompatible with his continuing to hold the office of mayor.

O’Brien has spoken clearly about how the city has laboured under the possibility that he would be charged with a criminal offence. If he chooses to continue on as mayor I fear he will be continuing to hold the city hostage to this issue. In this period of financial challenge, when we are searching for a long-term direction, we look to the mayor to take responsibility and guide our planning. How can he act in a position of oversight when he himself is under suspicion? How can he guide us when he may be found guilty and be stripped of his powers? How can he focus his attention on the city when he must defend himself in court? I believe he cannot do any of these things.

For all of these reasons, I ask Mayor O’Brien to do the right thing. I ask him to take a leave of absence while his criminal proceedings are being dealt with. Step aside and let the city proceed.