No changes expected to city’s remote work program

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This article was published 16/11/2023 (706 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Despite calls to reduce its range, a remote work program for City of Winnipeg employees looks set to continue without changes.

This week, council’s executive policy committee voted to take no action on the file, despite some councillors pushing to force all managers to return to the office and/or impose a maximum number of days per week any staff member can work from home.

After delaying the vote on the topic since September, amid heated debate over the “flexible workplace” program’s impact, council is now set to cast the final vote on not altering it at all.

Those who pushed for changes argue the program is affecting public services (some residents have complained about being unable to reach staff) and limiting oversight (opponents argue managers who work from home can’t monitor staff as closely).

By contrast, a public service report found work-from-home arrangements saved the city money without sacrificing productivity.

Council will cast the final vote on the matter Nov. 23.

Riel portrait motion stalls

It doesn’t appear a call to add a portrait of Louis Riel to the city council chamber will be granted in the near future.

Coun. Russ Wyatt had raised a motion calling for an image of Riel, a Métis leader widely known for his successful fight to ensure Manitoba became a province, to be displayed in a prominent location within the chamber.

The signature of Chief Peguis, who has been widely credited with helping early settlers survive Manitoba winters, would also be added.

Wyatt said the additions would highlight an important part of Manitoba history and the need for reconciliation.

However, council’s executive policy committee opted not to act on the motion this week, with councillors noting a preference to reach out directly to Indigenous Winnipeggers to determine which symbols and images should be added next.

Last year, the city added an eagle staff, Métis sash, seal skin, beaver pelt and other symbolic items to the council chamber, in a move meant to better acknowledge Indigenous history and culture.