Bracebridge mayor makes first moves under new strong mayor powers

Gavel image. (File)

Bracebridge Mayor Rick Maloney exercised powers granted to him under Ontario’s controversial strong mayor powers for the first time, but he says collaboration, not control, will remain the foundation of his leadership.

On Wednesday, Maloney issued his first four decisions under the new framework.

Rather than keeping the authority centralized in his office, Maloney delegated specific powers to both town council and the chief administrative officer (CAO), including giving council the authority to appoint and dismiss the CAO, and allowing the CAO to oversee the town’s organizational structure and employment matters. Council will also retain control over how committees are formed and managed.

“This is the first time decisions are being made in Bracebridge under the new strong mayor framework,” Maloney said in a statement. “I believe in the strength of our team and the importance of shared leadership. By entrusting key responsibilities to council and our CAO, I’m confident we will continue to make thoughtful, informed decisions that serve our community well.”

The strong mayor powers were introduced by the provincial government to speed up municipal decision-making, particularly around housing. They give mayors sweeping authority over municipal administration, including the ability to unilaterally hire or fire department heads and to pass budgets without council approval — powers that have raised concerns in some municipalities about transparency and accountability.

Maloney’s decision to hand much of that authority back to council and staff signals a different approach in Bracebridge.

“These delegations reflect the mayor’s ongoing commitment to working closely with trusted colleagues and ensuring the Town remains efficient, responsive, and accountable to the community,” the Town noted in a news release.

Bracebridge, known as the “Heart of Muskoka,” is home to more than 17,000 permanent residents, with its population doubling during the summer months. Its economy is anchored in construction, hospitality and professional services, sectors often directly impacted by local governance decisions.