Gazette reader points to a leadership culture where mistakes are managed, not owned

By Pepper Parr

March 21st, 2026

BURLINGTON, ON

One of the Gazette’s features is the comments section, where people can react to a news story.

They are not always kind – part of the process.

Earlier today one reader summed up the way things get done by the MAyor when he said:

It was designed as a pledge people would sign.

“As usual, what we see is confusion, inconsistency, and a process that clearly didn’t work the way it should have. Whether it’s poor communication, flawed execution, or a breakdown between staff and Council, the end result is the same.
But what’s most telling is what happens next.

“Instead of clear accountability, we get the usual pattern from MMW and Council: explanations, process reviews, and perhaps an apology — but no one truly owning the outcome.

“The responsibility for all these failures rests with MMW. People should be tired of her trying to minimize issues at City Hall.. She should be a “leader”and ensure the systems, oversight, and accountability are in place before problems occur.

“This pool allocation is simply another example of a leadership culture where mistakes are managed, not owned.

“All the while there is no shortage of messaging from the Mayor about the importance of “respect.” Once again I say ….”respect isn’t demanded — it’s earned.” And it’s earned through accountability, transparency, and a willingness to take ownership when things go wrong.

“What happens to “respect” when nothing changes ?”