The one question CKTB gets a lot is "what is the Niagara Region doing about the CAO hiring and contract controversy?"
Earlier today, CKTB reached out to the region via Twitter to find out how to contact the region.
The answer, or lack thereof, came today when we sent our questions to six communications employees at the region.
We asked this:
1) What are next steps in this case?
2) We are aware that the Ombudsman is reviewing the motion to see if it will investigate but what is your plan given the recent developments of the contract extension. Is Niagara HR reviewing the contract?
3) Is it null and void given that Chair Caslin wasn't given the authority to extend it?
4) Why did Caslin extend then offer the extra $230,00 if Mr.D'Angelo's contract wasn't extended in 2022?
5) Does Caslin or Carmen have plans to step down or make a statement following these developments?
6) What is your response to all of these developments?
The answer we received from Niagara Regional employee, Peter Criscione is this:
"As you may be aware, this is an internal human resources matter, which Council received advice on from HR and municipal counsel at last week's special meeting. In addition, Regional council has directed third-party external counsel be retained to review and advise Council on this matter."