Ontario to Grant Toronto, Ottawa Mayors Veto Powers Over Council as Part of ‘Strong-Mayor’ System

Premier Doug Ford responds to a question from the media on the final day of the summer meeting of the Canada's Premiers at the Fairmont Empress in Victoria, B.C., on July 12, 2022. The Canadian Press/Chad Hipolito

Ontario Premier Doug Ford has confirmed he’s planning to hand the mayors of Toronto and Ottawa “veto” power similar to that of the U.S. municipal system.

Speaking to reporters at Queen’s Park in Toronto on July 20, Ford said he plans to bring in a “strong-mayor” system for Toronto and Ottawa so that mayors are given enhanced powers over financial matters and appointments.