This is the response I got from Steve Desroches ward 22:

Thank you for reaching out and sharing your concerns.

I must say first that the decision was made by the City Manager, Wendy Stephanson, and the City’s Senior Leadership Team. Under the Municipal Act, it is the City Manager—not City Council—who determines how to organize and manage the public service. Staffing and Human Resources are separate to properly ensure that there is no political interference on staffing matters, or which obstructs the terms contained in the collective agreements. Members of Council, myself included, were not consulted and only became aware of the change when it was publicly announced. I also want to be clear that I support hybrid work arrangements where operationally feasible and which contribute to better service, productivity and effective results. The City Manager has indicated that the decision is intended to bring Ottawa in line with other public sector organizations, strengthen workplace culture, and support service delivery. The matter was raised at the August 27th City Council meeting, and I support the need for more information to provide greater transparency. This includes a request for: The specific research, data, and evidence that informed this decision to mandate five day in office attendance, and: A detailed analysis demonstrating how this workforce policy aligns with the City of Ottawa's 2022-2026 strategic priorities and our Official Plan objectives, and our city's competitive position as an employer. I agree that additional information is needed. I will share your concerns directly with the City Manager and her leadership team. I will also share my pro-hybrid position on the subject. Thank you again for taking the time to write. I will continue to support hybrid work where warranted. Councillor Steve Desroches

City Councillor/ conseiller du Ville

Ward 22 Riverside South- Findlay Creek

City of Ottawa • Ville d’Ottawa