Strong mayor powers change the rules of democracy mid-game
Not all the mayors in Ontario afforded so-called “strong mayor powers” think it is a good idea. Since the province’s April 9 announcement that it proposes to expand strong mayor powers to 169 additional municipalities, some members of municipal councils have been voicing concern.
Media in other municipalities have reported that council members are calling the additional powers ‘undemocratic’ and have likened them to a ‘dictatorship.’ According to news reports, the mayors of Parry Sound, Goderich, Kingsville, and Saugeen Shores are rejecting the new powers. Tillsonburg council asked for a pause on the province’s move to implement strong mayor powers. There are also reports of councils calling foul at the use of the powers. In Aurora, the mayor vetoed an approved motion that asked York Region to resubmit a proposal for a men’s emergency and transitional shelter. In Orillia the mayor used strong mayor powers to reverse a hiring of the CAO, seemingly without explanation.
Doug Ford has changed the democratic structure of municipal council government mid-game.
The current council was elected in 2022. If Doug Ford wants to change the rules, it should be done at the start of a new term of council and it should be clearly communicated to voters.
Research shows municipal councils are the most trusted level of government, but this could change if municipalities are seen to be wielding power unjustly, even if it is within their power to do so.
We were unable to find any news stories out of the municipalities that already have strong mayor powers that has resulted in a boom of development and good housing options for people desperate to find affordable housing.
Mayors remain bound by planning and regulatory constraints, in addition to good practices.
There is a risk the new powers will set an unrealistic expectation on council to “get things done.” There is also a risk that mayors could be targeted by developers and lobbyists looking to cash in on the newfound powers.
It is our position that being a member of council, in whatever seat, is a thankless job. The pay stinks and council members have a lot of homework to do before each meeting. Municipal politicians are held to high account – more so at the grocery store than at the polls. Perhaps that is why we have seen more inaction at the council table than action as a result of public pressure than red tape. We have witnessed several opportunities to create some type of seniors’ housing in Clearview slip away at the council table, when the community is begging for it. While action of any kind would be nice, it cannot come at the cost of democracy. We ask Doug Ford, when can we expect our strong constituents powers to roll out?
