Instead, council's only viable option was to publicly reprimand the Glanbrook councillor for trying to influence a council decision on his own property.

It marks the second black mark for Mitchell, who made history three years ago as the first Hamilton politician to be censured.

"Councillor Mitchell has to account for his actions," said Mayor Fred Eisenberger, noting Mitchell must now deal with the public fallout. "No one caused this other than (himself)."

The Spectator revealed last week that Councillor Robert Pasuta told his colleagues behind closed doors that he was lobbied by Mitchell to support a land ruling on his farm.

Under the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act, councillors aren't allowed to influence a vote when they could benefit financially.

As Eisenberger stood by council's decision, other councillors are questioning if it was fair that council didn't hear from Mitchell before issuing its judgment Wednesday. Source...