No conflict, Hicken says

Cornwall has one of the more unique races in the Nov. 5 municipal election.

Graham Hicken, who is running for mayor, is in a relationship with Elaine Barnes, who is seeking re-election to council.

But both Hicken and Barnes said they made sure they did their homework before offering their names up for election.

Hicken said he immediately checked with Kevin Coady, the town’s chief administrative officer, to ensure there was no conflict of interest.

“We went to Kevin and said, ‘Here’s what we’re thinking’,’’ Hicken said.

“We asked him to make sure there was no conflict of interest. We asked him to dot every I and cross every T. We’re not married, we’re boyfriend and girlfriend.’’

Hicken said Coady determined there was no conflict of interest.

The Guardian also checked with Elections P.E.I. and was told that not only is there nothing standing in the way of two people in a relationship running for the same council, there are a couple of husband and wife teams on councils in western P.E.I.

Still, it seems clear to Hicken that some residents in Cornwall aren’t happy about it.

“I’ve had (election) signs stolen, I’ve had signs broken, knocked down, but the signs that have been vandalized are mine and Elaine Barnes’ so I know what’s going on there. It’s unfortunate. (Residents) don’t like this negativity. (We) are two people trying to make a difference, make Cornwall better.’’

Hicken said he also doesn’t see a problem if he and Barnes are both elected.

“We both have our own opinions, we both have our own views and we have no problem voicing that and even if I was elected mayor, the mayor doesn’t have a say when it actually comes to passing resolutions.’’

The only time a mayor of a municipality votes on an issue is if there is a tie when councillors vote.

“There wouldn’t be any conflict,’’ said Hicken.