Checks and Balances in Municipal Government

Abuse of power can be seen in a lot of different workplaces. Someone is overreaching, actions are being taken behind people's backs, supervisors belittle, and co-workers gossip and exclude others. So how can this be prevented in municipal government?

In my opinion, there are three main strategies that people within municipal government can utilize to ensure abuse isn’t happening within the municipal sector.

The first is to ensure that there are proper policies in place to ensure abuse, when it does happen, can be addressed. Proper policies ensure that people who may be abused in the workplace will have a place to turn and will feel that their concerns will be dealt with appropriately. Without policies, it allows a culture of abuse to run rampant and the culture will continue to build.

The second strategy is to create a culture of acceptance and respect from the top down. If management is either bullying or abusing staff, it can be difficult for staff members to uphold a culture of respect, for both management and colleagues. A culture of respect at all levels will lead to a happier and healthier workplace.

The third strategy is specific to municipal government. Municipal councils must work to ensure that abuse isn’t tolerated at the highest levels. For example, how council members speak to the CAO or community members in council meetings can come across as abusive. This may lead others in the organization to think that this type of behaviour is accepted, and they may start to think, “if they can, why can’t I?”

Abuse in municipal government is an issue that is plaguing both councils and administrations across the country. People should be able to come to work, either as elected or appointed officials, and feel safe and happy about their environment. The above steps can help with that.

To find out more about strategies for mitigating abuse in municipal government, order (Un) Civil Society by Ian McCormack:

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