Toronto Mayor Removal May Affect Casino Plans
The shock removal of Toronto mayor, Rob Ford from office over alleged flouting of conflict of interest rules, has led to questions over the future of plans to construct a new casino in the city.
Ford has been one of the strongest supporters of plans to bring a mega gambling and entertainment resort to the Greater Toronto Area, and had already met with representatives from major casino companies who are interested in bidding for the right to construct the casino. These include Caesars Entertainment, MGM Resorts, Wynn Resorts and Las Vegas Sands Corp.
However, with Ford now ordered to leave the office in 14 days, the question of whether any further progress will be made with the casino plans is remains to be seen.
Ex Mayor Vows to Appeal his Removal
The charges against Mayor Ford stemmed from his use of an official city letterhead to solicit donations to his private football foundation in 2010, and a subsequent council debate held two years later regarding the need for him to return the $3,150 which were raised.
Ford was accused by the ruling judge this week of conflict of interest when he voted on the issue in the 2012 council meeting.
Justice Charles Hackland wrote in his ruling on the Toronto mayor removal: "In my opinion, the respondent's actions were characterized by ignorance of the law and a lack of diligence in securing professional advice, amounting to willful blindness."
The judge's ruling has also been interpreted to read that after this "current term", Ford can choose to run again in the 2014 mayoral elections, but not in a by-election if one is called before that time.
Ford defended his actions, saying: "I was focused on raising money to help under privileged youth. I never believed there was a conflict of interest because I had nothing to gain, and the city had nothing to lose."
He added that he respected the court's decision, but he intended to fight the ruling that he will have to vacate the office within a fortnight. Ford said that he had an appeal date set for January and therefore was going to request to stay on in his job while the legal process continued.
Ford Blames Left Wing Politics
Speaking about the court's decision to remove him from office, Ford told reporters on Monday that it all comes down to "left-wing politics".
"The left wing wants me out of here and they'll do anything in their power," he accused. "I'm gonna fight tooth and nail to keep my job as mayor."
