The City of St. John’s has concluded a Code of Conduct investigation involving Councillor Tom Davis.

A complaint was received on March 13, 2026, alleging disrespectful behaviour in the workplace, including inappropriate verbal exchanges and comments.

An independent external investigator was appointed to review the matter. The investigation found that Councillor Davis breached the City’s Respectful Workplace Policy by engaging in disrespectful behaviour and creating a negative work environment.

Under the Councillor Code of Conduct, all members of Council are required to follow the Respectful Workplace Policy. As a result, this finding also constitutes a breach of section 6 of the Councillor Code of Conduct.

An executive summary of the investigation report is being released. Due to its confidential and personal nature, the report will not be made public.

"City Council has a responsibility to balance transparency with the need to protect privacy and sensitive information,” said Mayor Danny Breen. “For that reason, we will not be sharing specific details related to these incidents. This approach also helps ensure that anyone at the City feels safe and supported in coming forward with concerns that may be impacting them at work.”

City Council passed a Resolution at the June 2 Regular Council Meeting that accepted the findings of the report and imposed the following sanctions:

• A formal reprimand;
• Training, as determined by Council, focusing on effective and respectful communications, professionalism in the workplace, and sensitivity and inclusion within 60 days of June 2, 2026; and
• A one-month suspension from Council duties with pay effective June 2, 2026 to July 2, 2026.

“As a Council, we are committed to learning from this and moving ahead in a way that strengthens how we work together. We are confident we can maintain a respectful, professional and productive environment,” added Mayor Breen.

In the Ward 4 Councillor’s absence, residents with an inquiry or concern are encouraged to contact Access St. John’s by calling 311 or 709-754-CITY (2489) or emailing access@stjohns.ca. If further assistance is required, they can reach out to the Mayor’s Office by calling 709-576-8477 or by email to Mayor@stjohns.ca.

Read Executive Summary