The City of Pickering announced that staff will resume participation in council and standing committee meetings starting with the executive committee meeting on April 7.
Staff attendance was suspended for the executive committee and planning and development committee meetings on March 3, as well as the city council meeting on March 24, due to rising incidents of disrespectful behavior directed at staff during official proceedings, according to a statement from the Mayor’s office (see below).
This follows the implementation of measures introduced through amendments to the procedure by-law, which were passed at the March 24 council meeting. The changes are designed to ensure a safe and collaborative environment for staff and all meeting participants, according to the city.
In response, Mayor Kevin Ashe, supported by a majority of council members, implemented procedural changes aimed at improving decorum and promoting a more productive atmosphere. These changes include appointing chairs and vice-chairs for the city’s two standing committees and redefining the planning and development committee’s role under the planning act.
“Staff are eager to return to meetings with confidence, knowing that measures are in place to ensure proceedings are both respectful and collaborative,” said Marisa Carpino, Chief Administrative Officer.
“Protecting staff and addressing their concerns has been a top priority for me and the majority of my council colleagues,” said Mayor Kevin Ashe. “These meaningful changes not only resolve immediate challenges, but also establish a stronger framework for more collaborative and effective governance moving forward.”
The City of Pickering emphasizes the importance of decorum in meetings, aiming to foster an environment of professionalism, civility, and respect. They said that principles aim to ensure that council and committee meetings are conducted with integrity, creating an environment where all participants, including staff and the public, feel valued and engaged.
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