North Saanich fires planning director Felice Mazzoni

The North Saanich council has unanimously voted to terminate the employment of Felice Mazzoni, the district’s director of planning and community services. The decision follows an independent investigation into multiple complaints filed under the municipality’s Respectful Workplace Policy.

A report by Poole Consulting, following an investigation by Roper Greyell LLP, identified a “breakdown in trust” within the planning department that was impacting staff work district-wide. The report noted that while Mazzoni’s conduct did not constitute a breach of law or specific district policy regarding bullying and harassment, it fell short of the district’s expectations for managers. Specifically, the findings cited poor leadership qualities and a lack of “effective, empathetic, and respectful communication skills.”

Mazzoni, who has held the position since 2023 and is currently a candidate in the upcoming municipal mayoral election, has refuted the dismissal. He stated there were “no grounds to terminate” him, noting that the released portion of the report confirms he did not violate laws or workplace respect policies.