West Nipissing Mayor calls fraud investigation a ‘difficult and challenging period’

That investigation led to the firing of two long-term employees and the launching of a civil suit against the contractor.

West Nipissing Mayor Joanne Savage says charges laid against three men today by the OPP for fraud show the municipality is looking after the best interests of its citizens.

The municipality became aware of financial irregularities in December last year and a thorough internal investigation was ordered and completed.

That investigation led to the firing of two long-term employees and the launching of a $450,000 civil suit against the contractor to recover the funds for work that was never properly completed, including more than half a dozen public works projects like road and sidewalk repairs.

The information was then shared with the OPP at the request of West Nipissing Police Chief Chuck Seguin to determine whether there was any criminal wrong-doing.

That investigation resulted in the three people being charged. One of those charged is Steve Morrison, the Chair of the West Nipissing Police Services Board and president of MX Constructors in Sturgeon Falls. Another, Marc Gagnon was hired last month as the Chief Administrative Officer of the Municipality of French River.

Read more here: www.sudbury.com/local-news/west-nipissing-mayor-calls-fraud-investigation-a-difficult-and-challenging-period-408246