Councillor Robert Pasuta revealed behind closed doors Tuesday Mitchell "lobbied" him to support a controversial land ruling on his farm, The Spectator has learned.

Mitchell denied the allegation yesterday, saying he has never spoken with Pasuta about his plan to sever part of his Binbrook property.

"I've had no conversations at all about this application with my colleagues," he said."I don't believe anyone is in a conflict and I don't believe I am either."

Mitchell's statement contradicts several councillors who say he talked to them about the severance -- but did not feel he tried to influence their vote.

By law, councillors aren't allowed to influence a vote when they could be affected financially. If guilty, a councillor is dismissed from office and can be barred from running again for several years.

The city's lawyer will report to council on its options for dealing with the allegation. Source...