Pia Harmokivi, the mayor of Vesanto in North Savo, Finland, has faced scrutiny from the municipal board after discussing work-related matters on the phone in a public setting last November. During this phone call, which occurred during her personal time, sensitive information regarding municipal workers was overheard by outsiders, raising concerns among the municipal board about the implications for cooperation with local organizations and the overall work environment in the municipality.

The municipal board’s minutes highlighted that the conversation's content and tone could have negative repercussions on relationships with partnerships and the internal atmosphere in the municipality. Although the specific organization mentioned was not disclosed in the documentation, the board deemed the mayor's behavior inappropriate for someone in her position, necessitating a formal warning. In early February, the board heard Harmokivi's account of the events, during which she acknowledged the occurrence of the incident.

Following the hearing, the municipal board deliberated between issuing a warning or a written reprimand. The board ultimately decided on a written notice reaffirming the responsibilities inherent to her role. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining confidentiality and professionalism, particularly for public officials, highlighting the potential risks associated with informal discussions that may compromise public trust and organizational integrity.