The Ontario government has launched a 90-day consultation to get feedback on how to strengthen municipal codes of conduct to better ensure that municipalities, councillors and heads of council maintain a safe and respectful workplace.
Jill Dunlop, the Associate Minister of Children and Women's Issues is holding roundtables with a variety of municipal stakeholders on how to strengthen accountability for members.
"We will not tolerate workplace harassment or discrimination of any kind," said Dunlop. "It's critical that everyone knows there are accountability measures in place for members who violate municipal codes of conduct. Our consultation will help determine what changes, if any, are required to ensure everyone can feel safe and respected in the workplace."
The government is also collecting feedback on holding municipal councillors accountable, including increased financial penalties, suspension for certain violations, removal from office in certain circumstances, and better training and standards for integrity commissioners.
"This feedback is critical to ensuring effective accountability measures are put in place for members of council who violate their municipal code of conduct," added Dunlop.
"Municipal councils are looking for new tools and new measures to address modern challenges in local government," said AMO President Graydon Smith. "Where there are serious code of conduct violations, municipal councils need the authority to take actions that are measured, appropriate and effective."
Comments can be made through the online survey by July 15.
Anyone can participate in the online survey to provide feedback.
"I encourage every Ontarian to participate in this process and share their thoughts and comments on how to bring effective accountability to municipal governments," said Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs.
- Consultation: Strengthening accountability for municipal council members.
- Municipal Councillor’s Guide for more information on codes of conduct.
