Cochrane Public Notice Details Expanded Mayoral Powers Under Ontario Law

The Town of Cochrane issued a public notice on July 28, 2025, outlining expanded powers and duties assigned to the Mayor under the Municipal Act, 2001, as amended by the Strong Mayors, Building Homes Act, 2022. According to the notice, these responsibilities are intended to help advance prescribed provincial priorities.

The changes alter decision-making authority within the municipality by granting the Mayor new powers related to appointments, committees, budgeting, and staff direction.

According to the Town, the Mayor may now appoint or dismiss the Chief Administrative Officer as well as various senior managers. The Mayor may choose to delegate these powers. The Mayor can also create committees of Council, assign committee functions, and appoint the Chairs and Vice Chairs of those committees, with the option to delegate these actions.

The notice explains that the Mayor is authorized to propose the Town’s budget. Council may amend this budget proposal. The framework provides for a Mayoral veto and a process through which Council may override such a veto. The Mayor may submit matters for Council’s consideration or veto by-laws if, in the Mayor’s opinion, the action will advance a prescribed provincial priority. Additionally, the Mayor has the authority to direct Town staff in writing.

The Town states that all directives made under these special authorities are made available to the public on the municipal website to ensure transparency and accountability.