Council appears wary of newly granted strong mayor powers

Roger Varley, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

In discussing the "strong mayor" powers recently bestowed on Mayor Barton by the provincial government, several councillors expressed a cautious approach.

The discussion came about during Monday’s council meeting, after council received a letter from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs, informing Barton of the move and adding: "Our government's expectation is that you will make use of these powers . . . supporting provincial priorities."

The letter said those priorities include supporting the construction of new homes, economic development and building water and wastewater infrastructure, roads, highways, transit and more.

Councillor Willie Popp said he had no immediate concerns about the strong mayor powers, but wanted to know "where do we go from here?"

Councillor Pam Beach expressed concern for the future, asking "could we end up with someone who is power-hungry?"

Councillor Gord Shreeve offered that "no one who rides roughshod over the constituents will get elected again."

Councillor Todd Snooks said the issue should be discussed at the outset of future new councils.

Barton said council should not spend a lot of time discussing the issue.

"We vote unanimously on most issues," he said. "This doesn't change how we will act here."

Leroux told council that township staff is currently going through training on what the strong mayor powers will mean to them. She said she will prepare a report in the future.