Public Statement from Council Regarding Online Conduct and Respect in Our Community (from regular meeting held November 18, 2025:
We would like to address the community in relation to a disturbing trend that has recently escalated.
Although it is easy to look in from the outside and imagine the work of Council to be straightforward, in reality it is far more than that. It is only once you are seated at the Council table that you truly understand the work and complexities involved and how procedures and legislation play into decisions being made for the Village.
Each member of Council brings their own perspectives and experiences to the table. Respectful discussion and commentary are expected and welcome in a democratic society. We do not always agree and at times our debates are spirited, but every member of Council is here to serve our community.
What is not acceptable, however, are the increasing levels of toxicity, hostility, personal attacks and even defamation that have been directed at members of Council through social media over the past few years.
Although verbal assaults on individual Council members are unacceptable, a line was recently crossed when physical threats were made to three members of Council and their families. This most recent incident has been reported to authorities.
To those who engage in online harassment or personal attacks: stop. The ongoing toxicity has been extremely wearing on us all. This must end. This is not Lions Bay.
It is our hope that those fostering inflammatory commentary will take a moment to reflect on the impact it has had on the community. At the end of the day, we are all neighbours. Civil discourse is to be expected, but there is a clear line between challenging ideas and attacking people.
We can and must do better. Let us all commit to restoring civility, respect and unity in our community.
Watch it here (at 1:49).
