An independent investigator, Steph Dyhrberg, has been assigned to examine the matter. The confidential information in question reportedly involves Cr Ong’s statements regarding the potential construction of a hotel near Dunedin’s Forsyth Barr Stadium.
Cr Ong identified the Russell Property Group to the media as a firm potentially involved in the project. Following his disclosure, Dunedin Venues confirmed that the group had been tasked with further developing concept options and conducting a viability study.
In a recent email to Cr Ong, Ms Graham emphasized the need for confidentiality, which he subsequently shared with the media. Ms Graham stated, “Please note, that given the nature of the complaint, this matter is to be treated as confidential until such time as the investigator has reviewed the material.”
She further explained, “The reasons for confidentiality are to protect the council’s legal and commercial position given the potential liability and commercial loss that has been created by your emails. A failure to respect confidentiality at this point in the process is likely to constitute a further breach of the code of conduct.”
Responding to the situation, Cr Ong described himself as a victim of “false attacks” in an email to the media. This incident is not his first breach of the code of conduct; he has previously violated it concerning an email about a staff member. Despite calls from fellow councillors to resign, Cr Ong refused to step down.
He had also lodged a complaint against Cr John Chambers, which was dismissed as lacking substance.
grant.miller@odt.co.nz
