Alnwick/Haldimand Township says threats, harassment and intimidation directed at senior staff members are responsible for the ongoing closure of the Grafton Municipal Office to walk-in visitors.
The township issued a statement Tuesday revealing the reason behind a closure announced a day earlier, when officials said the office would remain closed to the public until further notice but did not provide an explanation.
According to the township, senior staff members have recently been targeted through social media posts, emails and comments submitted through the municipal website. Officials say appropriate authorities are now being consulted regarding the threats.
Mayor John Logel described the situation as “extremely troubling and entirely unacceptable,” adding that municipal employees deserve to perform their duties in a safe and respectful environment.
The township stressed that while residents have the right to question decisions, policies and projects, there is no justification for threats, intimidation, harassment or abusive behaviour directed at municipal staff.
Chief Administrative Officer and Fire Chief Dave Dawson said staff are responsible for providing professional advice, implementing council decisions and delivering municipal services, rather than setting policy themselves.
The municipality says it has both a legal and moral obligation to protect employees from workplace harassment and violence. Officials noted that Ontario’s Occupational Health and Safety Act includes protections against workplace harassment occurring through online and electronic communications.
As a result of the situation, the Grafton Municipal Office will remain closed to walk-in service while facility enhancements aimed at protecting staff are completed. Municipal services continue to be available by appointment, phone and email, and the drop box outside the office remains available for payments and applications.
The township also announced that all council, committee, planning and land division meetings will continue to be held virtually using Zoom until further notice.
The municipality noted it has issued several public notices over the past two years regarding harassment, intimidation and threatening behaviour directed at staff.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
