Ontario Proposes Changes to Municipal Governance

The Ontario government has introduced a legislative proposal aimed at enhancing municipal governance and accountability across the province. The proposed changes are encapsulated in the Municipal Accountability Act, 2024. If passed, this legislation would establish a standardized municipal code of conduct and a consistent integrity commissioner inquiry process throughout Ontario. Additionally, mandatory code of conduct training would be required for council members and certain local boards.

Paul Calandra, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, stated that the government collaborated with Ontario’s Integrity Commissioner to develop a standardized code of conduct process. The proposed legislation includes provisions for the removal and disqualification of a council member found in serious violation of the code, contingent upon recommendations from the municipal integrity commissioner and a unanimous council vote, excluding the member in question.

The government also introduced the Peel Transition Implementation Act, 2024, which, if enacted, would transfer key public works services from the Region of Peel to the municipalities of Mississauga, Brampton, and Caledon. This move is part of a broader effort to provide these municipalities with the tools needed to deliver high-quality services to their residents as they continue to grow.