Mariehamn to Commission Independent Legal Review on Disputed Payments

Mariehamn's acting city director, Emma Dahleén, has proposed that the city council engage an independent legal expert to investigate the city's payment responsibilities concerning contested legal fees.

The proposal follows a series of events beginning in December 2025, when the city council was informed of a complaint to the regional administrative agency regarding alleged harassment and inappropriate conduct by the city director and HR chief. In response, the council commissioned an independent legal investigation with a budget cap of EUR 14,000, completed in February 2026.

Subsequently, it was revealed that, in addition to the initial investigation costs, the city had paid an additional EUR 33,870 (excluding VAT) for legal services related to the matter, specifically to assist the then-city director.

Given the city's obligations under the municipal law of the scscscsccsland Islands, Dahleén emphasized the need to examine potential irregularities in the procedures leading to these payments. She recommends that the investigation be conducted by an independent party with relevant legal expertise, likely from outside the scscscsccsland Islands, to ensure objectivity.

While acknowledging that this initiative will incur additional costs, Dahleén noted the city council's clear desire for a thorough investigation into the matter.

This development underscores the city's commitment to transparency and adherence to legal standards in its administrative processes.