Tensions at Rideau Lakes council resurfaced this week as a discussion on whether to return to in-person meetings became heated enough that staff warned the session could be shut down.
The decision on a potential return to in-person meetings had been left to the township’s joint health and safety committee, which recommended continuing with virtual meetings, citing workplace safety concerns.
Council has been meeting virtually since October 2025, after a meeting got so heated Councillor Deborah Hutchings called 9-1-1.
Debate on the recommendation quickly deteriorated into procedural disputes, interruptions and repeated points of privilege.
The escalating tone prompted a warning from CAO Shellee Fournier.
Councillor Paula Banks says comments made by Mayor Arie Hoogenboom and fellow councillors during meetings and media interviews have caused irreversible damage to herself and other members of council.
The committee presented eight recommendations aimed at improving workplace conditions and governance. These include reviewing policies and procedures and ensuring responsibility for implementing changes remains with council rather than staff. The committee warned that failing to act could disrupt township operations.
Council ultimately accepted all eight recommendations, adding an amendment to strike a working group that will develop an action plan for implementation.
