STATEMENT | OFFICE OF THE MAYOR
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Cochrane Mayor Peter Politis | Cochrane, Ontario
STATEMENT REGARDING MISAPPROPRIATION OF FUNDS – Mayor and Council Seeking Accountability

Cochrane. Ontario December 16, 2025 – This is to inform the public that upwards of $2 million of the Town of Cochrane’s public funds had been misappropriated in relation to the Grain Bin (Agri-Modal) Project, beginning in 2021. The misappropriation appears to have occurred under the purview of the Town’s previous CAO, financial department and the former Council.

An investigation is currently underway, and at this time, the Town is very limited in the details it can publicly share. However, the Mayor and Council are committed to ensure that appropriate public accountability is pursued in the investigative process. The misappropriated funds have already been expended and any recovery by the Town would have a positive impact on future budgets.

This current Council has committed to establish accountability as a foundational part of the Town’s public service and has enshrined this principle into By-Law 1525-2022 (attached). As part of that commitment, the Town will be initiating a forensic audit to thoroughly examine the entire matter and to provide appropriate transparency to the community.

We recognize the seriousness of this situation and assure residents that as matters unfold, we will keep the public apprised as permitted under law and within the confines of any ongoing investigations. The Town remains steadfast in its responsibility to safeguard the public interest and public funds, provide the highest standard of accountability, and uphold the trust of our community.

Contacts:
Peter Politis, Cochrane Mayor, 705-272-9527; Peter.Politis@cochraneontario.com