[7] In 1980, Robertson was quoted in the media as defending Kwakiutl, a nude Aboriginal sculpture, disagreeing with Brampton staff advice that the statue's genitalia be shaved off.
[10] When asked by the media for an endorsement of who should replace retiring Premier Bill Davis as leader of the Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario, Robertson reserved comment.
At the time, Robertson maintained his position as a professor of education at University of Toronto, and was writing a book on family violence.
[14][15] In 1990, Robertson was described by the Toronto Star as "one of the driving forces" behind a new race relations committee, set up by the City to inspect the effect of education, employment equity, and housing issues on new immigrants.
[16] Paul Beisel, appointed Brampton mayor after the death of Ken Whillans, decided to retire from politics at the end of his term, returning to his position as vice-president of Midland Mortgages.
[17] Regional councillors Robertson, Eric Carter, and Frank Russell all stood for election, along with businessmen Alan Austin and Don McMullen.