File Photo (Image Credit: CFJC Today)

By James Peters

Kamloops Council

City taxpayers to cover Coun. Neustaeter’s legal fees in fight against mayor

Jun 20, 2023 | 2:06 PM

KAMLOOPS — The City of Kamloops will pay Councillor Katie Neustaeter’s legal fees as she defends herself against a lawsuit filed by Mayor Reid Hamer-Jackson.

Hamer-Jackson filed the lawsuit last week, accusing Neustaeter of defamation.

In the Statement of Claim, Hamer-Jackson said Neustaeter defamed him in comments made in private emails and in a March 17 statement to the public.

In that statement and flanked by her fellow councillors, Neustaeter accused Hamer-Jackson of breaching personal and professional boundaries. Hamer-Jackson says that has resulted in damage to his reputation. He is seeking general damages and costs.

Kamloops council issued a brief news release after the conclusion of a closed meeting Tuesday (June 20).

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It notes council Neustaeter is eligible for indemnification, meaning the municipality could pay her legal costs.

“Councillor Neustaeter is eligible for indemnification under the Community Charter in respect of the legal action that was recently commenced against her, and Council has confirmed by resolution that she will receive that indemnification,” says the statement.

Neustaeter and Hamer-Jackson both recused themselves from the closed meeting Tuesday morning.