City conducted 10 investigations since 2020; former employees describe toxic environment
Victoria’s bylaw department has come under scrutiny following a series of investigations into allegations of bullying and discrimination. The revelations have prompted concern from city officials and calls for a review of workplace culture within the department.
Between 2021 and 2023, the City of Victoria commissioned at least three external investigations into the bylaw services division. These investigations were prompted by complaints from staff members who reported experiencing or witnessing workplace bullying, harassment, and discrimination. The city has confirmed that the investigations were conducted by third-party firms, with the findings leading to a range of recommendations.
According documents obtained by CTV News, one investigation found that “bullying and harassment occurred” within the department. Another report identified issues related to “discrimination and harassment,” while a third investigation concluded that “bullying and harassment did not occur,” but did recommend improvements to workplace culture.
The city has not disclosed the specific details of the complaints or the identities of those involved, citing privacy concerns. However, the complaints were serious enough to warrant external reviews and the city has taken steps to address the findings, according to the documents.
Toxic work environment
Current and former employees of the bylaw department have described a challenging work environment. One former employee, who spoke to CTV News on the condition of anonymity, said the workplace was toxic and she was “degraded constantly.”
The investigations found that some employees felt unsafe at work and that there was a lack of trust in management’s ability to address concerns.
Victoria Mayor Marianne Alto addressed the findings of the investigations, saying in an interview with CTV News, “It’s very disappointing to hear that there have been these kinds of issues in the bylaw department.” She added, “We want to make sure that every employee feels safe and respected at work.”
Alto emphasized that the city has implemented recommendations from the investigations and is taking steps to improve workplace culture. “We have accepted the recommendations and are working on implementing them,” she said. “We want to make sure that this doesn’t happen again.”
The mayor also noted that the city has provided additional training for staff and management, including sessions on respectful workplace practices and conflict resolution.
Recommendations for training, policies
The external investigations resulted in several recommendations aimed at improving the work environment within the bylaw department. These included enhanced training for staff and supervisors, clearer policies on reporting and addressing complaints, and increased support for employees who raise concerns.
One report recommended that the city “review and update its respectful workplace policy” to ensure that it is clear and accessible to all employees. Another investigation suggested that the city provide additional resources for staff who experience workplace issues, such as access to counselling and support services.
The city has stated that it is in the process of implementing these recommendations and will continue to monitor the situation.
The union representing bylaw officers has also been involved in discussions with the city regarding the investigations and subsequent actions. The union has advocated for greater transparency and accountability in the handling of complaints.
Follow-up assessments by city
The city has indicated that it will continue to monitor the workplace culture within the bylaw department and will conduct follow-up assessments to ensure that improvements are being made.
“We will be checking in with staff regularly to make sure that the changes we are making are having a positive impact,” city manager Jenkins told CTV News.
Mayor Alto echoed this commitment, stating, “We’re not just going to implement these recommendations and walk away. We’re going to keep working on this and make sure that our workplace is one where everyone feels safe and respected.”
