Policy 2025-02 Respectful Conduct for Public Meetings and Workspaces — full text

This is the exact embedded text of the captured official document. Snapshot c06a6593abfe · verified 2026-06-07 · original document · archived snapshot · unofficial consolidation, the official version is held by the municipal clerk.

Respectful Conduct for Public Meetings and Workspaces Policy No. 2025-02 Purpose The purpose of this policy is to ensure that all public meetings and workspaces of Council and its committees are conducted in a safe, respectful, and orderly manner. This policy affirms the right of all participants--Council, staff, and members of the public--to engage in civic affairs without harassment, intimidation, or disruption. Scope This policy applies to all public meetings and workspaces of Council and any committees of the Harvey Rural Community, whether held in person or virtually. Guiding Principles This policy reflects the Harvey Rural Community's core values of Community, Communication, Collaboration and Future Focus. These values serve as a foundation to help guide our behaviour and play an important role in the decisions and actions of the Municipality. It is supported by the Council Procedural By-law (No. 2025-04), the New Brunswick Human Rights Act, and applicable provisions of the Occupational Health and Safety Act. Expectations of Conduct 1. Respectful Interaction o All persons in attendance must treat Council members, staff, and each other with civility and respect. o Offensive language, gestures, or personal attacks are prohibited. 2. Orderly Participation o Members of the public may speak only when recognized by the Chair. o Speakers must confine remarks to the business on the agenda. o Disruptive behaviour, including interruptions, shouting, or physical contact, is not permitted. Respectful Conduct for Public Meetings and Workspaces Policy No. 2025-02 3. Use of Technology o Cell phones must be silenced. Calls or conversations must occur outside the meeting room. o Recording and photography are permitted provided they do not interfere with the meeting or infringe on the rights of others. Authority of the Chair - The Chair has the authority to always preserve order and decorum. - If, in the opinion of the Chair, conduct by any individual is inappropriate, threatening, harassing, or disruptive toward Council, staff, or other participants: 1. The Chair may issue a warning. 2. If behaviour continues, the Chair may order the individual to leave the meeting. 3. If necessary, the Chair may adjourn or end the meeting to protect the safety and dignity of staff, Council, and the public. - Individuals who fail to comply may be subject to removal, trespass orders, or other legal remedies available to the Harvey Rural Community. Agreement By attending a public meeting, attendees are deemed to accept these guidelines, which exist to ensure open, respectful, and safe participation in local government. Approved on: October 6th, 2025 Richard Corey, Mayor Morgan Kotsovos, Clerk