This article written in french by Stéphane St-Amour was automatically translated using ChatGPT
Investigation into Paolo Galati’s Unjustified Expenses: Quebec Municipal Commission Takes Action
The Quebec Municipal Commission (CMQ) has launched a thorough investigation into the expenses reimbursed to Paolo Galati, a councilor from Action Laval, over the past eight years. According to an investigation published by the Journal de Montréal, Galati allegedly used public funds for personal purchases such as groceries at Costco, a sofa bed, and a luxury $1,000 Apple watch.
Reimbursement Claims and Use of Public Funds
The questioned expenses were reimbursed through the research and support fund available to municipal officials. The report reveals a total reimbursement of $16,000 for Apple equipment since 2017, as well as grocery items including Nutella, cereal, chewing gum, moisturizing cream, and even an auto-watering planter.
Action Laval’s Response and Paolo Galati’s Withdrawal
Action Laval did not respond to our request for an interview with Mr. Galati. However, the party leader, Achille Cifelli, issued a statement emphasizing that expenses are reviewed by City employees and that the City Treasurer has the authority to reject non-compliant expenses. Shortly afterward, at 9:44 PM, a statement announced Paolo Galati’s withdrawal from the Action Laval caucus while the CMQ conducts its investigation.
City Comments and Political Impact
Mayor Stéphane Boyer criticized Galati for a lack of judgment, highlighting that the amounts and nature of the expenses raise serious questions about their relevance to the councilor’s duties. Acting Leader of the Laval Party, Claude Larochelle, called for a swift investigation and immediate reimbursement of non-compliant expenses, asserting that the integrity of elected officials is crucial for public trust.
Regulation of Municipal Officials’ Expenses
According to Philippe Déry, Chief of Public Affairs, the reimbursement of officials’ expenses is governed by the Act Respecting Municipal Elected Officials’ Remuneration and the Administrative Guide of the Ministry of Municipal Affairs. This regulatory framework defines eligibility criteria and reimbursement thresholds, as well as outlining the City’s verification processes.
The Guide allows for the purchase of furniture and office equipment, as well as reimbursement for purchases made in the context of meetings with citizens. However, it is crucial that expenses comply with the criteria and application terms, and that officials are accountable for the justifications and explanations related to each reimbursement request.
