The Streisand Effect: When Attempts to Control Information Draw More Attention
The Streisand Effect: When Attempts to Control Information Draw More Attention The “Streisand Effect” is a widely recognized term used to describe situations where attempts to suppress, censor, remove, or intimidate criticism unintentionally attract more public attention to the issue instead. The term originated after singer Barbra Streisand attempted to remove aerial photographs of her […]
When Municipalities Use Workplace Safety Laws to Respond to Public Criticism
When Municipalities Use Workplace Safety Laws to Respond to Public Criticism Background Across Canada, public institutions are increasingly using workplace safety language when responding to criticism from residents, journalists, and community advocates. Terms such as “harassment,” “hostile conduct,” “unsafe environment,” and “employee wellbeing” are appearing more frequently in disputes involving criticism of municipal decisions, elected […]
A Committee Member Was Appointed. Then Removed. The Process Is Unclear.
A Committee Member Was Appointed. Then Removed. The Process Is Unclear. In July 2024, the Township established Terms of Reference for the Economic Development Committee. The document sets out the rules for membership, responsibilities, and removal. Members are described as “citizen” members who are appointed by Council, serve for the term of Council, and may […]
Township Tells Homeless Man To Leave Survival Site, Threatens Trespassing Charges And Disposal Of Belongings
Township Tells Homeless Man To Leave Survival Site, Threatens Trespassing Charges And Disposal Of Belongings This is a developing story. Photos reviewed by South Algonquin Matters show handwritten enforcement notices left beside a small shoreline tent occupied by a man who says he is homeless and living outdoors in South Algonquin. One notice, written on […]
Emails Show Building Inquiry Sent to Non-Owner in Whitney Property File
Emails Show Building Inquiry Sent to Non-Owner in Whitney Property File Emails from March 2022 show that a building inquiry by the Township of South Algonquin was sent to a third-party individual who did not own the property, raising questions about how the inquiry was initiated and handled, information privacy, and how information was shared […]
What happens when you file a complaint
What happens when you file a complaint Documents Raise Questions About How Municipal Complaints Are Handled Municipal policies point residents to instructions for how to complain about experiences, staff behaviour, safety issues and other items the municipality is responsible for. These processes are a normal part of municipal operations. Normally, processes include complaining in writing, […]
When a Facebook Post Tries to Clarify a Law
When a Facebook Post Tries to Clarify a Law Questions Surround South Algonquin’s Noise and Nuisance By-Law A Facebook notice from the Township of South Algonquin has raised questions about its Noise and Nuisance By-law. While the Township states that some information online is “misleading,” the wording of the by-law and concerns raised before and […]
EcDev Committee Change Raises Questions About Process
On March 12, 2026, staff removed a community member of the South Algonquin’s Economic Development Committee (EDC). The change has prompted questions about how committee rules are being applied. The situation centers on the removal of a community member following a determination that the individual was no longer residing within the Township.
Building Inspection Leads to Record-Keeping Questions
Building Inspection Leads to Record-Keeping Questions A routine building inspection at a local business in South Algonquin highlights inspection practices, municipal record keeping, and how accessible government records are to residents. An insulation inspection later led to a Freedom of Information (FOI) request, an appeal to the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario, and enquiries […]