Cambridge Mayor Craig seeks review of conflict of interest

Cambridge Mayor Doug Craig wants an OntarioSuperior Courtreview of his conflict of interest relating to the Region of Waterloo rapid transit project.

For almosttwo years, Craig has withdrawn himself from matters relating to theproject, which will see a light rail train systemconstructed between Conestoga Mall in Waterlooand Fairview Park Mall in Kitchener. Theroute also includesbuses with designated lanes between Fairview and the Ainslie Street bus terminal in Cambridge.

Craig declared a conflict of interest under the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act because his son Mike Craig owns property along the route, which has the potential to increase in value after the project is complete.

Since the time Craig declared his conflict on June 29, 2011, the rapid transit project has moved forward. The route it will travel has been finalized,Ionhas been chosen as the brand name and the region has asked three groups of developers for construction proposals.

Now, Craig wants back into the rapid transit discussion.

"This is an important matter for our community," Craig said in a release. "As one of only three regional representatives for Cambridge, I wish to participate in matters related to [rapid transit] going forward if the law permits it."

Craig has retained the legal services of lawyer Douglas O'Toole.

"He is seeking a declaration that the deemed pecuniary interest is so remote or so insignificant that a reasonable person would not believe that it would influence his participations in debates, discussions and votes on the issue of transit in the central transit corridor." O'Toole said.

"The issue for the court to decide is whether that potential increase in property value [for Mike Craig's property] is of such significance that a reasonable person would think it would influence Mayor Craig's participation in discussions, debates or votes on these issues," he said.

O'Toole will be presenting Craig's case at the superior courtin Toronto's Osgoode Hall on Thursday.