City of Stratford launches legal challenge of strong mayor powers

Stratford City Hall seen here on Feb. 4, 2021. (Dan Lauckner / CTV Kitchener)

The City of Stratford has launched a legal challenge to Ontario’s strong mayor powers.

Heads of council, such as a mayor, can use the strong mayor powers to purpose and pass bylaws while only having the support of two-thirds of council. They can also veto bylaws and hire and fire department heads.

The province has previously said giving those tools to more municipal leaders will help reduce obstacles to building housing.

“Stratford City Council has previously expressed concerns regarding the implications of the legislation for representative local decision-making and governance,” a city news release published on Monday said. “City Council agrees with the Province’s goal of building more housing in Ontario but rejects the notion that Strong Mayor Powers are helpful in achieving that goal.”

The legal challenge asks the court to declare that the strong mayor legislation has no force and effect.

The city claims the powers undermine the ability of councillors to have an equal voice around the horseshoe and violates the right to effective representation.

The city said the cost of the challenge falls within the city’s approved operating budget.

Strong mayor powers were first introduced in Toronto and Ottawa and expanded to 47 other municipalities in 2023. On May 1, those abilities were granted to 169 additional municipalities, including the City of Stratford.