Woodstock's mayor, who is facing criminal charges, was the focus of an emergency meeting by the city's council Wednesday afternoon.
Following an investigation by London police, Woodstock Mayor Trevor Birtch was charged last week with assault, sexual assault, and sexual assault with choking. The charges stem from separate incidents between February 14 and December 13, 2021, involving the same woman. Birtch is scheduled to appear in court in relation to the charges on May 2. He has not commented publicly about the allegations against him.
The agenda for Wednesday's closed-door council meeting simply stated "a special meeting of Woodstock city council is called for the purpose of receiving advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege."
Most of the meeting, which was scheduled for 3:30 p.m., was held in private.
Birtch reportedly made an appearance for the in-camera session of the meeting, but did not appear for the live-streamed session, which lasted less than five minutes.
Acting Mayor Connie Lauder read a statement on behalf of council regarding Birtch's charges.
"This is a matter for Mr. Birtch to respond to through the court proceedings," Lauder said. "Under our system of justice, an accused receives the benefit of doubt unless and until convicted."
The council's statement also noted that services will not be impacted throughout the process.
On Tuesday, the Woodstock Police Services Board stated the mayor will not be attending future meetings as the Ontario Civilian Police Commission investigates.
"The Woodstock Police Services Board referred the issue relating to the mayor of Woodstock, who also serves as vice-chair of the Woodstock Police Services Board to the Ontario Civilian Police Commission pursuant to Section 25(1) of the Ontario Police Services Act. This action has been taken by the board believing that it is the best means of maintaining public confidence in the abilities and integrity of the board," Board Chair Ken Whiteford said in a brief statement.
He added that the board is unable to comment further on the matter.
Under the Ontario Police Services Act, members of police boards in Ontario are required to adhere to a code of conduct and cannot act in a way that compromises the integrity of the board or the police force.
Birtch was first elected as mayor of Woodstock in 2014 and is currently serving his second term in the position. In addition to his duties on Woodstock council, Birtch also sits on the Oxford County council.
The 46-year-old mayor cannot be forced to resign. According to the Ontario Municipal Act, a politician charged with criminal offences can remain in office and can only be removed if sentenced to jail time.
None of the allegations against Birtch have been proven in court.
