The Mayor of Goderich is mad as hell, and he’s not going to take it anymore.
Saying “enough is enough”, Kevin Morrison is calling out self-styled critics of municipal policy and decision-making who vent their anger on social media platforms like Facebook.
The Mayor struggled to contain his feelings during a lengthy address to Council on the issue Monday.
Morrison says much of what is posted to the Goderich Citizens’ Exchange Facebook page amounts to bullying, which he calls ridiculous.
He’s especially angry over the targeting of Councillor Trevor Bazinet, who is a leading figure in the revitalization of Agricultural Park.
Bazinet didn’t have the chance to respond to rumours and unfounded attacks, after the Goderich Citizens’ Exchange blocked him from responding to numerous allegations.
Almost on the verge of tears Monday, Bazinet told Council that his 13 year-old son has seen some of the comments, and appreciates the support of his fellow Councillors.
Morrison says as Mayor, part of his job is to protect members of Council who are being unfairly singled out for doing their job.
He named several names of repeat Facebook critics during his address because he believes in the transparency of Council, which gives the critics the opportunity to appear in person.
Morrison says some of the posts about Bazinet are libellous and defamatory, and that OPP will become involved if the posters’ conduct continues.
He points to a situation in which he was targeted earlier this year, that stopped when police stepped in.
