A potential labour disruption involving dozens of City of Peterborough employees could close Riverview Park and Zoo, although officials say there is currently no impact on municipal services.
Collective bargaining continues between the City and International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 636, which represents approximately 78 employees working in several areas, including Water Services and Riverview Park and Zoo.
The union has received a no-board report from Ontario’s Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development.
IBEW Local 636 is now in a legal strike position, while the City is in a legal lockout position. However, no labour disruption is currently underway and negotiations are continuing.
The City says contingency plans are in place should a strike or lockout occur.
Water treatment, monitoring, sampling, testing and regulatory requirements would continue during any disruption. Officials say measures are in place to maintain the safety and reliability of Peterborough’s drinking water system.
The City is also working with the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks to ensure provincial drinking water requirements continue to be met.
Riverview Park and Zoo would close to the public during a labour disruption, allowing remaining staff to focus on animal care, health and wellbeing. The miniature train would also close.
Other City services would continue, although residents could experience delays when contacting Service Peterborough about Water Services.
City Hall would remain open, with the Clerk’s Office, Building Services and Provincial Offences office unaffected.
The City employs approximately 1,400 people overall.
Negotiation details remain confidential, with the City saying it remains committed to reaching an agreement with IBEW Local 636.
