John Tory’s ‘code of conduct’ policy appears to slam Rob Ford

John Tory released his mayoralty code of conduct on Thursday morning, with each item appearing to slam Mayor Rob Ford’s work ethic and style of governance.

The mayoral candidate also unveiled a new slogan called “respect the law” at a news conference at the Simpson Tower on Bay Street

The policy, titled “Code of personal and political conduct,” detailed 10 points under the following topics:

  • Leading a great city
  • Make city council work for Toronto
  • Respect taxpayers with actions, not just words

“I will respect and defend our laws, not break them,” Tory listed as point No.1 under the first category.

“I will always show up for work each day to get things done for people, and I will do this in a transparent manner,” Tory said of his next point.

“This includes keeping a weekly schedule, which is public and easily accessible.”

He also said he will “conduct, at a minimum, a weekly press ability that is open and honest” and not compile an “enemies list.”

Tory said that if he’s elected, he’ll present the code to be adopted by city council, and is calling on the group to be a “vehicle for progressive and positive change.”

Tory filed his nomination papers with the city clerk on Feb. 24, the same day as former TTC chair Karen Stintz.

The election will be held on Oct. 27, 2014.

It’s Tory’s second time running for mayor. He lost to David Miller in 2003. As leader of the provincial Progressive Conservatives he failed to win his own seat in the 2007 election. Then, when another member of the legislature gave up her seat so Tory could run in a byelection, he lost again and resigned as leader.

Tory is also the former president and CEO of Rogers Media.

Rogers Media is the parent company of City, CityNews and this website.

With files from Erin Criger and The Canadian Press

Read the 10-point Code of Conduct plan below:

LEADING A GREAT CITY
1. I will respect and defend our laws, not break them. I will act with the highest degree of integrity, honesty and professionalism that public office demands.  In short, I will respect the law.

2. I will show up for work each day to get things done, and I will do this in a transparent manner. This includes keeping a weekly schedule that is public and easily accessible.

3. I will conduct, at a minimum, a weekly press availability that is open and honest. Fostering meaningful and open civic dialogue requires a Mayor who answers questions – not runs from them.

MAKE CITY COUNCIL WORK FOR TORONTO
4. I will build and promote strong working relationships with neighbouring municipalities and other levels of government without regard to their political stripe. Torontonians want tangible and meaningful results and that means working together.

5. I will mend relationships and build bridges in a divided City Council by working with every member on an issue-by-issue basis. The outcome needs to reflect a desire to make life better for Torontonians.

6. I will not compile an enemies list. Torontonians do not want a party system at city hall. I will use the mayor’s office to work with people, not carry on old fights.

7. I will always treat city staff with respect and professionalism. A Mayor can be tough and decisive without being overbearing and brash.

RESPECT TAXPAYERS WITH ACTIONS, NOT JUST WORDS
8. I will ensure that city resources are used exclusively for city business by tightening spending rules and oversight mechanisms. Not one public penny will be used on personal matters.

9. I will introduce real penalties for elected officials and public servants who abuse the privileges, responsibilities and trust that accompany public service. We work for Torontonians – not the other way around.

10. I will require all lobbyists to register in order to make our system more fair and accountable, including leveling the playing field for union lobbyists.

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