Redbrick

I think this was my 20th #AMO2023 Conference and I've been fortunate to be immersed in them. Each year I'm surrounded by about 2,000 people who work very hard to achieve good things for hundreds of communities. Together, they make all of Ontario better. Big thanks to @AMOPolicy, to all those who serve, and to the very tired staff who create AMO's big, important tent.

Lots of nice coverage coming out of the @AMOPolicy Conference. These days, old school journalism (with reasearch, interviews and everything) is provided by those who are quite committed to that idea. @MWEditor and his colleages often deliver this for Canada's municipal community. Enjoy this read. #AMO2023

Listening to the questions and discussions, I am left to wonder if Ontario is ahead in sone ways, with well developed policies, standards and approaches across the public sector. Obviously, still toxic and tough. Thank you @FCM_online

It is really interesting to look at how online harassment of elected officials is approached in Canada vs. the United States. The standards and laws are different. Canadians expect Canadians to be polite. Americans expect to be heard, no matter how it is served up.

Lots of chats about blocking. That's a bit too easy. It tends to send the worst online characters into a ditch. They pile up in it, and that ditch gets worse. #FCM2023AC

There was a focus on how to use technology and AI to block and protect officials from toxic behaviour online. All interesting. We should also focus on leadership and strategies that elevate the culture of online communities -- which IS possible.

I caught a good session on online abuse at @FCM_online. The focus on elected officials reflected the audience. However, we also need to consider staff. In our experience, an increasing number of public sector social media managers need (absolutely deserve) mental health support.

We jumped at the chance to sponsor the Ontario Small Urban Municipal (#OSUM) Conference. #Municipal governments have welcomed @RedbrickComms warmly and often for more than two decades. Your goals are our goals, and your successes are our successes.

I will miss knowing Hazel McCallion is out there, doing stuff. I worked with her for years, thanks to her tireless support for #Mississauga, municipal governments and #PortCredit salmon. Every moment was a ball, but this was the best. Thank you @AMOPolicy: youtu.be/BbRmgmrZrOQ

This is one of the most interesting interviews I have seen in years. Chief CJ Davis delivers a long, frank, honest and difficult interview beautifully. She leads and succeeds by understanding what makes news and by shattering traditional rules. cnn.com/videos/us/2023/01/27… @donlemon

Many employees have opted to work from home, and often, working from home is working great. But don't be surprised if your employer makes changes to how their office space is being used. Employers and employees must adapt together, to find the right balance. @RedbrickComms

It's a beautiful fall day to get out and vote. I did. Quick and easy. Thank you to everyone who makes it possible, especially the municipal Clerks and staff, the many volunteers, and all the candidates.