“I was surprised.  I have been called these things in emails, in voicemails, and even in person.  “I have never heard it from a colleague in the council halls around the council table,” says Haight from her home in Kincardine.
CTV News will not share the exact wording of the comment due to its graphic nature, but after the comment, Cuyler apologized, but not to Haight.  Instead, it was done in the whole council in general.
In a statement to CTV News on Wednesday, Cuyler apologized for his actions, saying: “I sincerely apologize to the entire community and to all those affected by my actions. It was not my intention to offend or discriminate. I was “Frustrated with myself for personal reasons when I commented openly on myself. This comment was not addressed to anyone other than myself.”
Cuyler adds, “Please be aware that while I can sometimes be emotionally vulnerable, I would not in any way or capacity be willing to participate in or directly respect this community and its citizens. My commitment to this community is unwavering. my colleagues on the board, the MOK [Municipality of Kincardine] staff and citizens.  I will continue to ensure that Kincardine is the best place to live, work and play.  I ask for your understanding and acceptance in this regard “.
The use of the derogatory term to describe part of a woman’s anatomy, from one councilor to another in open session, has shocked locals.
“It was an obscene, misogynistic insult to a fellow councilor and simply unacceptable,” said Rick Clark, a Kinkardin resident.
“I’m also disappointed that we have to have this discussion as a community because it should have been discussed at the council meeting right now.  “I’m very disappointed that something is still happening,” said Sarah Patterson, a Kincardine resident.
Kincardine, Ont.  Board meeting on April 4, 2022. (Source: Rogers TV)
Cuyler has been reprimanded twice in the last three years for violating the council’s code of conduct.  His latest offense resulted in him losing 30 days of salary and he was forced to apologize to the staff, the city council and the public.
Hate would not say what punishment she would like to see for Keiler for his obscene comment, but says she will file a complaint with Kincardine’s integrity commissioner.
“Complaints about our positions on issues are valid, but sexualizing our positions and commenting in this way is unacceptable and is one of the reasons why women do not use their names,” says Haight.
Community members were more direct in what they would like to see as punishment for the behavior of their elected official.
“The person who did this must resign.  They have to give up, it’s not okay.  “Allowing this person to continue to represent the community, I do not think is a fair representation of many Kincardine members,” said Meghan Fair resident.
“I think an immediate suspension is pending review by the integrity commissioner,” said Kincardine resident Jennifer Hunter.  “I do not think that a year has passed since they were trained with respect in the workplace and it is not enough.  It’s a mentality that needs to change. “
Asked if she would return to the next council meeting no matter what, Hate said “with the bells on”.
Kincardine Mayor Gerry Glover responded to the incident and said in a statement Wednesday that he had lodged a formal complaint with the integrity commissioner, who would determine whether there had been a breach of the code of conduct.  Glover added that the decision on the matter will be expedited and the results will be announced at an upcoming special public council meeting.
“I urge the public to be patient while the matter is before the integrity commissioner,” Glover said.