New Public Conduct Policy supporting all staff is in the works for the Town of Bracebridge

The policy is similar to one enacted in Lake of Bays

Bracebridge General Committee agreed to develop a new Public Conduct Policy that supports all of its staff, during its May 5, 2026, meeting,

The policy expands on a call to action originating from the Township of Lake of Bays focused on protecting public works employees and contractors, which highlights growing concerns from other municipalities across Ontario about harassment, threats, and interference faced by municipal public works workers while performing essential duties.

According to the staff report, these workers are responsible for maintaining critical infrastructure such as roads, bridges, drainage systems, and winter maintenance operations, and often act as frontline responders during emergencies.

The resolution notes that incidents have included verbal abuse, threats of violence, and obstruction of equipment, which can delay emergency response efforts and put both workers and the public at risk.

In addition to initiating the policy, it urges the province to recognize municipal public works workers as essential service providers during significant weather events and emergencies, introduce penalties for interference or harassment, and provide clearer direction to police services.

It also references calls from the Association of Ontario Road Supervisors (AORS) for stronger provincial legislation, enforcement measures, and clearer consequences for those who interfere with municipal operations.

The Lake of Bays resolution focuses specifically on public works staff and contractors, however, Bracebridge's response, while in alignment with broader municipal concerns across Ontario, takes a broader approach. The Town will develop a Public Conduct Policy that applies to all municipal staff - to support a safer working environment for all Town employees - incorporating its experience with the RZone initiative and best practices from other municipalities.

Staff explained, “The intent is to develop a policy to encompass all Town staff and contractors…to address the instability penetrating everyone,” including those answering phones, at front counters, grocery stores.

According to the report, the policy will be led by the Director of Corporate Services/Clerk and is expected to be completed by the second quarter of 2027. There is no direct budget impact identified for 2027.

Councillor, Barb McMurray agreed that the policy should support all workers. She said, “It makes a whole lot of sense.”