Indian Trail Council investigates Councilman Barber's social media ethics violation claims

The Indian Trail Town Council is facing scrutiny over Councilman Todd Barber's involvement with a controversial Facebook page, the Indian Trail Weasel Report, following a detailed legal review presented during the council meeting on April 8, 2025. The review raises concerns that Barber's connection to the page may violate the town's social media policy and ethical standards.

The investigation, conducted by an external attorney, highlighted that the Weasel Report, which has undergone several name changes since its inception in 2019, retains a significant digital link to Barber. The attorney noted that despite Barber's claims of no longer managing the page, the history of posts and the page's branding suggest otherwise. The attorney argued that the page misleads the public regarding Barber's involvement, which could undermine trust in local government.

Key findings from the review indicate that the Weasel Report was initially created as a platform for Barber's political messaging and has since evolved into a site that presents itself as independent. However, the attorney pointed out that the page's previous iterations and Barber's public appearances with the page's mascot contribute to the perception that he still holds editorial control.

The review concluded that Barber's actions could be seen as a violation of the council's code of conduct, which mandates that members provide truthful and objective information to the public. The attorney emphasized that the need for such an investigation itself reflects poorly on Barber's conduct and the overall integrity of the council.

As the council deliberates on the implications of these findings, the community is left to consider the potential impact on public trust and the ethical standards expected from its elected officials. The council's next steps will be crucial in addressing these concerns and restoring confidence in local governance.