Tashi Farmilo
Local Journalism Initiative

MUNICIPALITY OF PONTIAC – The Commission municipale du Québec (CMQ) will conduct a performance audit of the Municipality of Pontiac’s code of ethics and conduct, part of a province-wide initiative examining how municipalities maintain integrity in governance.

Pontiac is one of 20 municipalities selected, each with fewer than 100,000 residents. The CMQ aims to determine whether local codes go beyond legal requirements and foster a culture of trust, accountability, and respectful conduct among elected officials and staff.

Mayor Roger Larose stressed the process is routine. “This is a standard procedure,” he said. “Every few years, the Commission selects municipalities at random. It is not triggered by a problem. It is simply our turn.” Pontiac has already received the official notice outlining the audit.

The audit is not an investigation into wrongdoing. Instead, it reviews how council members and staff make decisions, manage conflicts of interest, and interact with the public. According to the CMQ, clear codes of ethics reduce the risk of misconduct and protect municipalities from financial, legal, or reputational harm.

“Codes of ethics and conduct play an essential role in governing elected officials, employees and staff, while ensuring protection of the public interest,” said Nancy Klein, Vice-President of Audit at the CMQ.

The review unfolds in three phases: a preliminary study, a detailed analysis, and a final report with recommendations. The municipality will then have three months to produce a public action plan, followed by a CMQ verification within three years.

Larose said the review should be welcomed. “If this process shows ways to strengthen governance, that benefits the community. We will work with the Commission every step.”