Brampton apologizes to former city manager for unfounded investigations and privacy breaches

The City of Brampton is apologizing to its former Chief Administrative Officer David Barrick nearly a year after he was fired.

Barrick was hired in October 2019 and then suddenly replaced in a special council meeting on Feb. 11, 2022.

“The City unreservedly apologizes to Mr. Barrick for the unfounded investigations and associated confidentiality and personal privacy breaches he experienced during his tenure with the City,” a press release from the City of Brampton reads.

Back in February of 2022, councillors boycotted meetings and then unanimously appointed new CAO Paul Morrison as the interim CAO. A city director said she was fired, accusing Barrick and others of misconduct.

Members of council later requested that Peel Regional Police and the Ontario Ombudsman investigate allegations, with police reporting no evidence of criminal wrongdoing while the ombudsman declined to investigate.

In November, Marlon Kallideen was appointed as the permanent Chief Administrative Officer.

And today (Jan. 31) the City of Brampton says an independent, third-party investigation exonerated Barrick and confirmed he was in full compliance with the city’s policies, procedures, and all bylaws.

“The City appreciates Mr. Barrick’s unwavering professionalism and fulsome cooperation during those processes,” the statement reads.

“The City of Brampton apologizes for the events that occurred leading up to and following Mr. Barrick’s departure from the City and regrets the reputational harm Mr. Barrick has experienced as a result.”

The city also thanked Barrick for his delivery of unprecedented investments in Brampton, and his leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, during which time the city was independently recognized by Forbes and Maclean’s magazines as one of Canada’s Top Employers and Canada’s Best Communities.

“The City would welcome David back in a suitable position but he has decided to engage in other opportunities. As such, the City offers its best wishes for his future success,” the statement adds.