Ontario expanded strong mayor powers despite negative feedback

Ontario moved ahead with a major expansion of strong mayor powers even though most consultation responses were critical, according to documents obtained by CBC News. The changes, which took effect on May 1, 2025, extended the powers to 170 municipalities and later to 216 across the province. The summary of consultations showed 769 responses over an eightday period, with civil servants describing the tone as mostly negative. Critics called the framework unnecessary, undemocratic and a poor fit for small municipalities. The powers give mayors more control over budgets, appointments, staffing decisions and some council votes. The Ford government said the changes were meant to help speed up housing and infrastructure projects, but opposition politicians and policy experts argued the system has not clearly improved housing delivery and has created tension on some councils. The province said some mayors have used the tools to help move housing projects forward.