Random House Dictionary - definition of "Fraud":

"FRAUD: 1): deceit, trickery, sharp practice, or breach of confidence, used to gain some unfair or dishonest advantage. 2.) particular instance of such deceit or trickery. 3.) any deception, artifice or trickery."

On June 11, 2003, Ottawa City Council Voted 16 to 2, in favour a costly and reckless Munster-Richmond sewage forcemain option, over the far safer and much less expensive, on-site treatment plant that is widely favoured by the public (residents supported the on-site, mechanical treatment system, by a margin of  83% in Munster and 77% in Richmond).

By doing so, Councillors have confirmed their misguided roles as "rubber stamps" for the the incompetent schemes (or worse) of some of the City's legal and infrastructure staff, or perhaps, as timid automatons ---voting with the Ward Councillor--- under the authoritarian orders of Mayor Bob Chiarelli.

City staff have also, effectively suspended any possibility of a quick resolution of Munster's sewage problems, by their blatant contempt and noncompliance with the OMB Order: by withholding evidence, and falsifying other facts that are material to the Board's interest in use of the "best available evidence" to ensure that "the public interest is best served".

The big losers in all of this: Public health and safety, taxpayers' dollars, the broad public interest, democracy, and the environment.

There are two stalwart Councillors who were notable exceptions to the herd-mentality, exhibited at the June 11th vote: These are Councillor Rainer Bloess, (quote), of Innes Ward, and Councillor Wendy Stewart, (quote), of River Ward. Congratulations and thanks to both of you, from an appreciative public, for using your integrity and your intellect in identifying the situation ...for the sham that it is!

Ottawa City Council Meeting
Transcript of Munster portion -  June 11, 2003

• Related Press Item:

"Stinky sewage", by Susan Sherring - OTTAWA SUN - July 29, 2003