NEWS RELEASE
CITY OF STRATFORD
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The City of Stratford’s Respectful Workplace Policy has been the subject of some interest in the community lately, and I would like to clarify a few things if I can.
Last year, we implemented a new policy that highlights the importance of treating everyone – City employees, City Council and members of the public – with dignity and respect.
Recently, a few individuals were suspended from City facilities for a period of three months for violating that policy. Those individuals can still comment on City business during that period, can still provide written comments to City Council, and can still communicate with City staff, but must do so through a process that involves the City solicitor.
This step was not taken lightly, but was in response to behaviour that was deemed to be unacceptable in our workplace, and in contravention of our Respectful Workplace Policy.
It is important to note that we welcome constructive criticism, and we value the feedback we receive from engaged citizens. The vast majority of our citizens express themselves in a manner that is polite, courteous and respectful.
But we have an obligation to protect City employees, Councillors and members of the public from disrespectful or inappropriate comments or actions in our workplaces. Behaviour that is hostile, offensive, humiliating, demeaning, derogatory or defamatory will simply not be tolerated.
Please remember that creating a safe and respectful workplace is a shared responsibility.
To learn more about the City of Stratford’s Respectful Workplace Policy, please visit the City’s website at www.stratford.ca/respect
Thank you,
Mayor Martin Ritsma
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