Employee Code of Conduct

Richmond Hill is committed to achieving the highest standards of conduct. To help do so, all employees must read and sign an Employee Code of Conduct, agreeing to its terms and conditions, before beginning work with the Town. At this meeting, Council approved adding specific provisions with respect to the reporting of wrongdoing (whistleblowing) and protections from reprisals for reporting such wrongdoings; and an update to the use of Alcohol, Drugs, and other Substances section to specifically address impairment issues which may arise as a result of the pending legalization of cannabis usage. The purpose of the Employee Code of Conduct is to detail clear guidelines regarding acceptable behaviour by all levels of staff. It sets standards/guidelines for staff behaviour with respect to confidential information, media relations, conflict of interest considerations, and use of municipal property, insider information, the acceptance of gifts and benefits and political involvement. Richmond Hill’s Employee Code of Conduct was last updated in 2006. Defining these specific guidelines demonstrates to all customers how seriously the Town takes its professional responsibility of providing quality services in an impartial and efficient manner. For more information, contact Samara Kaplan, Director, Human Resources, at 905-771-2521.

Community Tree Planting Efforts Help to Establish a Healthy Urban Forest

Richmond Hill’s efforts to protect the natural environment continue to make a difference. Council received a report and learned more about the ongoing programs and activities that contribute to creating a vibrant community by establishing a healthier urban forest and natural corridors throughout the Town’s greenway system. Through the Community Stewardship Program, Richmond Hill works with agencies and community volunteers to improve the local environment through activities like tree planting, stream restoration and invasive species removal. In 2017, with the help of 1,950 community volunteers and partner agencies, 10,900 trees/shrubs were planted in Richmond Hill parks and natural areas. The Healthy Yards Program provides residents the opportunity to purchase native trees, shrubs, perennial flowers and backyard composters for their own property at a subsidized cost. Rain barrels are also available at a wholesale price. In 2017, approximately 1,000 residents purchased 1,734 trees and shrubs, 5,782 perennial flowers, 195 backyard composters and 269 rain barrels. For information about the 2018 Healthy Yards Program and other upcoming workshops, tree planting and stewardship events, visit RichmondHill.ca. For details about other 2017 natural environment achievements, contact Ann Marie Farrugia, Manager, Natural Environment, at 905-771-5509.

The next Committee of the Whole Meeting is scheduled for Monday, April 23, 2018 at 4:30 p.m. and the next Council Meeting is Monday, April 30, 2018 at 7:30 p.m. Both meetings will be held in Council Chambers.