Statement on the Auditor General's Investigation into the City's Human Resources Investigative Processes

HAMILTON, ON - The City of Hamilton is releasing the Auditor General's findings on longstanding and significant gaps in our workplace human resources investigation processes. The audit identified widespread concerns regarding the fairness of investigations, as well as broader issues with the investigation process. Council and the City are taking direct action to address these findings and rebuild confidence in these services for our employees and residents. Council is committed to ensuring trust and confidence in the services the City delivers.

Complainants and respondents deserve a process that is fair, impartial and consistent. Independent investigations are the foundation of a safe, trusted workplace, and strengthening them is part of our responsibility to our employees and residents.

Management has accepted all six of the Auditor General's recommendations and has already begun implementing corrective measures:

• Targeted, strengthened training for Human Resources investigation staff;
• Enhanced oversight and review of investigation reports before finalization;
• Updated procedural templates to ensure consistent, fair practice across every investigation; and
• Strengthened supervisory oversight of the investigations process as a whole.

The City is committed to implementing these recommendations and building trust through sustained and visible action. Staff will report back to Council in January 2027 on full implementation. The City thanks the Auditor General for this review.