City of Hamilton Launches Respectful Environments Policy City-wide

HAMILTON, ON – The City of Hamilton will roll out a Respectful Environments Policy (RZone) on September 16, 2024, to promote respectful behaviours in all City facilities and spaces.

RZone was developed to promote safe, positive, and supportive environments and interactions for all members of the public and City employees across City facilities, parks, spaces, programs, and events.

The policy requires everyone who uses City facilities and spaces to show respect for others and take responsibility for fostering safe, positive, and supportive environments.

“Implementing an RZone policy in the City of Hamilton reinforces our commitment to all Hamiltonians,” said Mayor Andrea Horwath. “Like other municipalities, having a zero-tolerance approach to violence, abuse and other inappropriate behaviours in all of our recreational facilities and properties signifies that we are prioritizing safe and inclusive spaces for everyone who lives, works, or visits our city.”

The RZone Policy replaces the existing Zero Tolerance of Violence Policy by encouraging thoughtful and respectful behaviours and outlines the process and consequences to address inappropriate conduct or actions. 

“By working together, we can all promote respect and responsibility, improving the safety, appearance, and overall environment of our community,” said Marnie Cluckie, City Manager. “RZone sets clear expectations for residents, visitors, and City of Hamilton employees to create and maintain spaces that are safe, welcoming, and foster a true sense of belonging for everyone.”

Individuals who break the RZone policy may be removed from City premises, issued a letter of warning, and/or banned from the facility. Witnesses to incidents can report them directly to City of Hamilton staff or use the online incident report found on Hamilton.ca/RZone.

Quick Facts

• RZone originated in Oakville and has since been adopted across multiple municipalities in Ontario.
• The ‘R’ in RZone stands for Respect and Responsibility: respect for yourself, respect for others, and responsibility for your actions.
• The RZone policy applies to all in-person, phone, and online interactions with City of Hamilton staff and other members of the public.
• City of Hamilton employees have received training on the new RZone policy as of July 31, 2024.
• RZone complements existing workplace policies, such as the Code of Conduct for employees, the Occupational Health, Safety and Wellness Policy, the Violence in the Workplace Prevention Policy, the Mental Health and Wellbeing Policy, and the Harassment and Discrimination Prevention Policy.