Essex Mayor Snively Pleads Guilty to Municipal Elections Act Charge

Further to the Ontario Provincial Police proxy vote investigation in 2018-19 and the subsequent Municipal Elections Act charge against Mayor Snively in 2020, Town of Essex Administration and members of Council have been informed that Mayor Snively has agreed to a resolution of this matter via a plea of guilty to the offence of having induced or procured a person to vote when that person was not entitled to do so.

“This is troubling and unfortunate and Council as a whole condemns the actions that lead to this offence” said Deputy Mayor Richard MeIoche.

”Despite this concerning development, our residents can be assured that our Council together with Town Administration will continue to serve our residents and move the business of the Town progressively forward as a great place to live, work and play.” said Doug Sweet, Chief Administrative Officer.

“It is important to note that throughout the process, the Town acted diligently both by immediately requesting the O.P.P. to independently investigate this matter, and by providing ongoing cooperation with authorities.” said Sweet, “I also think its important that the residents understand that the subject of the OPP investigation was never the election itself.”

At this time, the Mayor has advised fellow Council Members and Town Administration that he intends to serve out the remainder of this term, but will not be running in the 2022 Municipal Election.