Audit of Halifax mayor’s expenses prompts council to seek region-wide reform plan

Halifax council has demanded a reform proposal to enhance financial oversight within the mayor's administration and the municipality as a whole following an audit that questioned $111,000 worth of expenses incurred by Andy Fillmore during his tenure. During a committee meeting, the finance committee decided to commission the chief administrative officer to draft corrective measures in response to the audit, which identified four transactions conducted by Fillmore's office that did not adhere to municipal policies.

The audit subsequently led to the auditor general referring the situation to the RCMP. Mayor Fillmore did not partake in the committee's discussion, citing concerns over potential conflicts of interest. The approved resolution, however, included modifications from the mayor, broadening the scope of the plan to encompass not only the mayor's office but the entire municipality.

Authorities anticipate the final plan will be presented to council within a two-month timeframe. This report, originally published by The Canadian Press on August 13, 2026, details the situation.