HALIFAX – Mayor Peter Kelly says he’s not leaving office anytime soon, following the release Tuesday of the auditor general’s report on the Halifax cash-for-concerts scandal.
But, at least one councillor says he needs to fess up to his involvement.
Mayor Kelly’s going to do what’s in the best interests of Mayor Kelly,” Sue Uteck says.
“There’s no requirement for him to do that, but I really want him in front of council and the public.”
She says his role in the scandal is in question, even though he denies involvement in anything underhanded, because AG Larry Munroe’s report indicates he could have done more to prevent the deal that saw concert promoter Harold Mackay get a $400,000 advance to secure the Black Eyed Peas for a summer 2010 concert.
MacKay folded his company not long after the gig flopped, still owing the city $360,000.
The report also revealed a contract for Keith Urban’s 2008 was changed after HRM Legal Services approved it.
Kelly, MacKay and former Chief Administrative Officer Wayne Anstey – who took the fall for the scandal and resigned in March – all signed the document after it was altered.
While some wonder if the whole fiasco has ruined the chances for concerts on the Halifax Commons, Kelly assures “For those who wish to come forward with their own investment.
Former promoter Wayne Mason says the City Hall should stay out of the concert business.
“When you read the AG’s report,” Mason says, “the mayor was out front, handing out cars, calling promoters, engaging people.”
“He was the concert promoter,” he says.
While critical of the Mayor’s actions, Munroe’s says there’s no need for a police investigation.
Kelly says he’ll act on the AG’s recommendations.
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