Sault Star to publish Rowswell/Fratesi Emails

This morning's edition of the Sault Star will publish an extraordinary exchange of Emails between Mayor John Rowswell and chief administrative officer Joe Fratesi (shown at left).

A Star staffer told SooToday.com that today's edition will include at least two articles about Emails exchanged during the mayor's ongoing visit to Japan and Russia.

Radio reporters John Campbell and Karl Sepkowski were also in possession of the incendiary Emails and discussed them on morning newscasts.

As described, the Emails discuss problems the Mayor had using the City's corporate credit card in Japan.

"Your staff screwed with advice for travel expenses that have generated a major problem for us," he is alleged to have told Fratesi.

Because of the credit-card problems, the Mayor is said to have asked City officials to wire US$1500 to a bank account in Bratsk, Russia held by a woman to whom the Mayor provides tuition assistance for her daughter.

"I do not trust my CAO, and I am watching every move you make even from here or Russia," Rowswell is quoted as saying.

Elsewhere in the messages, the Mayor's language is considerably more colourful. "I'm pissed," he says at one point.

In the purported Emails, Rowswell and Fratesi also discuss rumours that attempts were being made to find a job at City Hall for Ward Three councillor Derik Brandt.

The Mayor seemed particularly incensed by Fratesi's reminder that receipts would be required for all expenses.

"Who the hell do you think you are to tell me to be accountable for taxpayer dollars," Rowswell is purported to have said.

At time of writing, SooToday.com was not in possession of the Emails described in the Star and other media.

This morning, we will ask the Civic Centre for copies of all Emails exchanged with Rowswell since he left the City on his international trip.

If the full collection of Emails is not released immediately, we will file an application under the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act compelling the City to release them.

The City will have 30 days to respond to such a request, but in our experience requested documents are often released shortly after an official request is made under the Act.

SooToday.com will be following the story as it unfolds today, so check back frequently for updates.

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