Mayor: Local government works best when people with different perspectives involved

The news of Ward 8 Coun. Tracy Richardson’s decision not to run in the upcoming municipal election due to harassment continues to reverberate, with others speaking out on this issue.

“Over time, the environment has become increasingly marked by incivility; being yelled at, unfairly blamed, and subjected to ongoing harassment, online abuse, social media trolling and personal threats,” Richardson told council earlier this month, noting that she has had people repeatedly visit her home and family’s business.

All of these examples fall under section 264 of the Canadian Criminal Code, which classifies criminal harassment as repeated, unwelcomed behaviour that causes a person to reasonably fear for their safety, or the safety of others. If found guilty, offenders could receive up to 10 years in prison.

Ward 2 Coun. Pat Warren said her and Richardson have often shared stories of the harassment they’ve received from their time on council. “Some people in society feel they have the right to abuse women,” Warren said. 

“I’m sad that Tracy has dropped out, but it’s what she had to do. I’ll miss her around the council table.”

Warren said a lot of the harassment comes from those online. “People on Facebook are keyboard warriors,” she said. She hopes that despite this, more women will choose to run for council.

Warren hopes that higher levels of government will start to have discussions about how women in politics can be better protected.

Mayor Doug Elmslie said he’s concerned that this incident will have an impact on who decides to run for council. “If harassment, intimidation, and personal attacks become accepted as part of public service, we risk discouraging good people from running altogether,” he said.

While Elmslie is disappointed that Richardson has decided not to run for council, he said harassment is not what councillors have signed up for. “No one should feel that serving their community comes a the expense of their personal safety, privacy, or wellbeing.”

Marlene Morrison Nicholls, former president of Stewart Morrison Insurance Brokers Ltd, said she’s also faced challenges in the business world being a woman. “I was a woman business leader for over four decades, and like women in political and nonprofit leadership, I had to carve new and challenging pathways to success.”

Morrison Nicholls said Richardson’s decision is an understandable one. “Tracy is a wonderful person, and I believe that she has made this decision thoughtfully. There are many ways she will…serve our community’s growth and wellbeing. Our love of Kawartha Lakes drives our service. Her concern is echoed by many women in politics, at all levels of government. I encourage our community members to lean into kindness, compassion, and healthy communication whenever voicing concerns to our elected officials.”

Elmslie said he hopes with the municipal election coming up, residents will show respect to those running. “As we approach the next municipal election, I would encourage residents who care about their community to consider putting their names forward. Local government works best when people with different experiences and perspectives are willing to get involved.”