A recent report by Open Council, a government oversight agency, alleges that attendees at Premier Doug Ford’s daughter Kayla Ford’s 2022 wedding and related events received notable civic benefits, including high-ranking appointments and special zoning privileges.
Zoning Privileges and Appointments
The report reveals that 18 Ministerial Zoning Orders (MZOs)—which bypass local zoning bylaws to allow developments—were issued to individuals connected to the wedding. Of these, 15 impacted Ontario’s Greenbelt, a protected area.
Open Council, using data from the Ontario NDP, also outlined various high-ranking appointments granted to attendees after the wedding. Some key examples include:
- Madeleine Bodenstein: Appointed to the Death Investigation Oversight Council and York Regional Police Services Board.
- Shakir Rehmatullah: President of Flato Developments; owns Greenbelt land parcels removed for development near Markham and Whitchurch-Stouffville.
- Carmine Nigro: Renewed as LCBO Chair and appointed Ontario Place Corporation Chair in 2022.
- Mario Cortellucci: Appointed to the York Region Police Services Board; owns 400 acres of Greenbelt land linked to a Milton-Vaughan highway project.
- Nico Fidani-Diker: Received MZOs for properties in Caledon and Mississauga.
Allegations of Influence and Donations
The report suggests that wedding and stag/doe attendees were allegedly encouraged to donate large sums of money, raising concerns about the influence of personal connections on public policy.
Integrity Commissioner Clears Ford
Ontario NDP leader Marit Stiles referred the matter to the Integrity Commissioner in 2023. The Commissioner’s findings stated that Premier Ford “did not participate in the selection of properties to be removed from the Greenbelt” and was only briefed on the matter shortly before its presentation to cabinet. Alleged donations tied to the events were also found to comply with provincial policies.
Premier Ford has publicly emphasized his exoneration, stating, “The Integrity Commissioner has cleared me 100%!”
Criticism of Greenbelt Development
Despite the Commissioner’s clearance, critics argue that the granting of MZOs and appointments to individuals with personal ties to Ford raises ethical concerns. The disproportionate impact on Greenbelt lands has reignited debates about the province’s handling of development in protected areas.
No Comment from Premier’s Office
INsauga.com reached out to the Office of the Premier for a statement but received no response by the time of publication.