In his own words: Webster’s statement to support innuendo motion

AWARE Simcoe August 30 2013
The following is a statement read out by Springwater Councillor Rick Webster at the August 26 council meeing in support of his motion on libel, slander and innuendo (to be voted on in September):

There is no intent in my motion to stifle legitimate input and comments which are considerate and thought out on any matters by anyone. I, and presumably my fellow council members as well, have no problem listening to the reasoned opinion of others who both agree and disagree with any position that I/we may have on all matters put forth.

In fact, I would think that you would want me to be flexible on my decision-making as I listen, and assess all the opinions and facts that can be ascertained on any matter. However, what is not acceptable, from any side on any matter, are comments which are rude, disrespectful, or unfounded insinuations of dishonesty which could be construed as libelous or slanderous, directed at those of us associated with the municipality – elected or employed. In the last several months my fellow members of council and I have faced accusations by our fellow Springwater residents such as, and I quote: “maybe being bought by means that I don’t know and the public doesn’t know, by the developers”. This email originated from a doctor who resides in Midhurst. Additionally on two separate websites a letter has been posted which states, and I quote, “deserves a full investigation by a higher authority such as the RCMP”. 
These accusations are, to my knowledge without foundation, and have the potential to damage at many levels. In 2010, I put forth my name to represent the good people of Springwater, who are my neighbours and friends, and in past, my customers and employees. During my 25 years of business ownership in this municipality I took great care to be honest, respectful and considerate of others. My staff and my customers depended on my integrity.
To be above reproach was always my goal. To now be a politician at a very local level, and have my name and my family exposed to such behaviour, in a civilized democratic society, is not something I am willing to accept of any of us.  I also do not believe that my family and I, and my fellow councillors and their families and staff should have to endure financial hardship in order to defend our reputations, should it come to that. While this motion, should it pass, may not stop attempts at slander and libel, it is a clear indicator to those who persist in resorting to this kind of rhetoric, that consequences may occur. And really, the ultimate goal of this motion, should it pass, is to encourage and instill an atmosphere of civility and respect for all, where everyone can discourse in an honest, objective and forthright manner.