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Dunedin Councillor Censured for Inappropriate Conduct, Pay Cut

3/25/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Benedict Ong, a Dunedin councillor, faced censure after a report found inappropriate conduct toward a staff member.
During the council meeting, Mayor Sophie Barker expressed shock at the report's findings.
The council voted 10-2 to ask Ong to consider resigning, but Ong refused, stating the allegations were false.
His pay will decrease from nearly $100,000 to about $84,500 due to his removal from several roles.

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Story summary

Benedict Ong, a Dunedin councillor, faced censure after a report found inappropriate conduct toward a staff member.
During the council meeting, Mayor Sophie Barker expressed shock at the report's findings.
The council voted 10-2 to ask Ong to consider resigning, but Ong refused, stating the allegations were false.
His pay will decrease from nearly $100,000 to about $84,500 due to his removal from several roles.