Premier Doug Ford’s recent expansion of strong mayor powers has been met with negative feedback. A consultation by Ontario civil servants revealed that many find it undemocratic and inappropriate for small municipalities. The strong powers give mayors more control over budgets, appointments, staffing and the ability to pass bylaws without consultation with a third party. While the powers were enacted as a solution to the housing crisis, critics feel they have created divisions and made the crisis worse.
Zac Spicer, an associate professor in the School of Public Policy & Administration, confirms that strong mayor powers have created conflicts in many municipalities, since giving mayors and councillors this much power to act like a “CEO” has been problematic.
Spicer holds a PhD in political science from the University of Western Ontario. His research interests include politics and government, public administration, local government, smart cities, data governance and innovation policy.
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