City Council's Debate on Bill 39

Over the last few weeks, I have received hundreds of emails from residents across Ward 15 – Don Valley West in opposition to the Province's Bill 39, Better Municipal Governance Act. As you may know, the Province passed Bill 39 on December 8, broadening the already expanded powers granted to certain Ontario Mayors by allowing them to propose, amend, and pass by-laws that advance prescribed "Provincial priorities" with only one-third of City Council in support.
 
Like many of you, I am very concerned about how this legislation will impact decision-making at City Hall, now and in the future. Throughout my time in office, I have always championed transparency, public consultation, and civic engagement. Passing by-laws with minority support is not consistent with these principles.
 
At last week's City Council meeting, I voted to oppose Bill 39 and request the Province of Ontario to repeal the legislation. I also voted for a motion requesting both current and future Mayors to not exercise the power to pass by-laws with only one-third support. During the debate, I spoke out strongly against Bill 39, emphasizing the need for Council to be representative of the people we serve as well as the importance of the role Councillors play as a conduit between local communities and City Hall.
 
If you're interested in listening to my remarks to City Council, you can do so here. You can also access the decisions made by City Council, here, and the contact information for your local Member of Provincial Parliament, here.