Owen Sound rejects ‘Strong Mayor’ powers

Owen Sound Mayor Ian Boddy. (Source: ianboddy.ca)

The City of Owen Sound has decided to reject its ‘Strong Mayor’ powers, granted by the province. A total of 170 municipalities were granted the power, effective Thursday.

Owen Sound Mayor Ian Boddy delegated powers back to Council and the City Manager through official Mayoral Decisions, according to a news release.

“The reality is that these powers are being implemented whether municipalities want them or not,” said Boddy.

“Council recognized this and used the time wisely, not to delay action, but to ensure the city is equipped to navigate the changes responsibly. In doing so, Owen Sound has positioned itself ahead of many municipalities that have yet to engage meaningfully with the operational, legal, and procedural realities these powers entail.”

Council has also requested the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing reverse its decision and immediately remove Owen Sound from the list of municipalities with the powers.

The city said it values collaborative, council-led decision-making and doesn’t believe in the strong mayor framework is necessary in Owen Sound.