Mayor Cleveland has repeatedly breached the values of respectful discourse and community integrity expected of the Office of the Mayor. His history of foul language, aggressive conduct, bullying, integrity inquiries, and politicized policing constitutes a serious deviation from the leadership style Cobourg deserves and expects.

For the well‑being of our town, and to restore Cobourg’s character as a warm, collaborative, and respected community, we respectfully demand his immediate resignation.

We, the undersigned residents, community partners, and stakeholders of Cobourg, submit this petition requesting that Mayor Lucas Cleveland  resign immediately.

1.Pattern of Demeaning and Aggressive Conduct
Mayor Lucas Cleveland has exhibited a sustained pattern of aggressive, profane, and disrespectful behavior, both in public and within official settings. On multiple occasions, he has been reported using vulgar and inappropriate language—such as shouting expletives in the Mayor’s Office—undermining the standards of respectful civic leadership. In one widely discussed incident at a McDonald’s drive-thru in October 2022, he was heard yelling, “I need … my kid’s fucking Happy Meal,” while identifying himself as the mayor. His conduct during council meetings and public events is similarly troubling: repeatedly interrupting others, dismissively shuffling papers while colleagues speak, and routinely ignoring or undermining the perspectives of others—particularly female council members. These behaviors, which include belittling and demeaning remarks, have contributed to an increasingly toxic and unprofessional environment at Town Hall.

2. Integrity Complaints and Questioned Conduct
Concerned citizens and council members have filed multiple complaints with the Integrity Commissioner regarding his conduct, citing bullying, disrespect, and unresolved concerns about misuse of his authority .

These unresolved complaints erode public trust and highlight serious questions about adherence to the Town’s Code of Conduct, especially in the areas of Integrity and Honesty, Respectful Conduct, Use of Influence and Adherence to Policies. 

3. Politicizing Policing and Shelter Policy
Mayor Cleveland’s conduct in public office has contributed to an increasingly adversarial political climate, particularly concerning homelessness and community safety. His approach to these complex issues reflects a pattern of antagonism rather than collaboration, undermining evidence-based public policy and eroding public trust.

This concern reached new heights with an official Town communication published as a letter to the editor in Today’s Northumberland on June 26, 2025. In it, Mayor Cleveland urged residents to “make Cobourg as hostile a place as possible” toward criminals—while simultaneously referencing individuals experiencing homelessness and accessing essential support services. Such language dangerously conflates poverty with criminality and invites hostility toward some of the community’s most vulnerable members.

Research in public policy and criminology warns that inflammatory rhetoric by elected officials can contribute to the dehumanization of marginalized populations and foster an environment conducive to vigilantism and social exclusion (Wacquant, 2009; Amster, 2008). Encouraging hostility as a civic response runs counter to established principles of harm reduction, compassion, and public safety. It undermines the work of frontline agencies and trained professionals tasked with addressing homelessness through evidence-informed, trauma-sensitive interventions (Gaetz, 2014; DeVerteuil, 2011).

Mayor Cleveland’s statement is not only reckless—it is dangerous, divisive, and unbecoming of any public official, let alone the Mayor of Cobourg. Such a call to action violates the foundational values of dignity, inclusion, and responsible governance.

4. Eroded Relationships with Community Partners
The Mayor’s combative and often divisive conduct has significantly strained relationships with vital community partners, including county and provincial agencies. His repeated public criticisms, unilateral decisions, and threats to separate from the County—particularly in disputes over shelter and housing policy—have created a climate of hostility and mistrust. Rather than fostering dialogue or seeking common ground, his confrontational tactics have shut down opportunities for collaboration, alienated long-standing allies, and driven a wedge between Cobourg and key stakeholders.

This breakdown in intergovernmental and community relations has not only tarnished Cobourg’s reputation but also impeded progress on critical issues such as housing, homelessness, and social services. By prioritizing political posturing over constructive engagement, the Mayor has weakened the town’s ability to advocate effectively and implement coordinated solutions that require regional cooperation.

5. Authoritarian ‘Strong-Mayor’ Leadership Style
Mayor Cleveland’s repeated emphasis on his “Strong Mayor” authority, coupled with his tendency to dismiss opposing views, reflects an authoritarian leadership approach that runs counter to principles of democratic and inclusive governance.

Residents, community partners and community advocates have raised concerns about his forceful, top-down decision-making style and his unwillingness to engage in meaningful dialogue.

In light of the above:

We call on Mayor Cleveland to resign, acknowledging that his leadership has undermined public trust and community unity.

We demand a renewed commitment to the values that once made Cobourg “Ontario’s Feel‑Good Town”—where democratic dialogue, dignity, and partnership guide civic leadership.