City condemns harassment and hateful comments directed at staff; matter referred to RCMP

 The City of Penticton is condemning a series of ongoing and hateful and targeted comments directed at City staff on social media and confirms that the matter has been referred to the Penticton RCMP for investigation.

The City supports the public’s right to question decisions, express disagreement and hold local government accountable. However, personal attacks, degrading comments, sexualized remarks, threats or other forms of harassment directed at individual employees are unacceptable.

Recent comments posted publicly about City employees may have crossed that line and have been referred to police for investigation.

City staff come to work each day to serve the community. They are not elected officials and should not be subjected to personal attacks simply because they are carrying out their professional responsibilities or implementing decisions made by Council.

“There is an important distinction between criticizing a decision and attacking the person who is doing their job,” said City Manager Anthony Haddad. “Our employees should be able to come to work and serve this community without being subjected to this type of personal and degrading behaviour. We welcome legitimate public scrutiny and difficult conversations – that is part of local government – but there is no place for harassment, threats or personal attacks against our staff.”

The City has provided information regarding the comments to the Penticton RCMP, and police are investigating.

Members of the public are reminded that information posted online may be subject to investigation where threats, harassment or other potentially unlawful conduct are alleged.

Employees will continue to be supported, and the City will work with police where appropriate to address conduct that may cross the line from public criticism into harassment or criminal behaviour
Members of the public who have concerns about City decisions are encouraged to contact the City through appropriate channels, attend Council meetings, make written submissions or otherwise participate in the democratic process.

Respectful dialogue is essential to a healthy community and democratic process. All people, including municipal employees, should be treated with dignity and respect. Harassment, threats, hate-motivated behaviour and personal attacks have no place in our community. Residents will always have the right to question decisions, express concerns and participate in civic debate, but those conversations must remain respectful.