Many of my constituents have seen commentary and concerns being raised by a group of former Toronto mayors regarding the Strong Mayors, Building Homes Act. According to them, the proposed legislation would eliminate any meaningful role of city councillors and therefore the voice of the local residents who elect them.

Residents of Toronto and Ottawa deserve the peace of mind that their elected officials are accountable to them and will act in their best interest.

Mr. Speaker, will the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing please explain how this legislation will ensure that my constituents still have power regarding the role of municipal mayors and councils and the democratic principles that shape governments are being upheld?

Some of the additional concerns raised by the previous mayors of Toronto about this legislation include claims that mayors will have too much power to hire and fire senior staff, impacting the separation between executive and legislative functions. Additionally, they have said that the system provides too much control for mayors, providing them a veto on decisions that intervenes with provincial priorities.

Speaker, can the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing provide certainty for the people of Toronto and Ottawa by addressing the outstanding questions regarding this legislation?