Who's next in line for a breakup? These Ontario regions say they don't want to be split
CBC
Ontario says it will appoint "facilitators" to look at whether cities and towns in six regional governments could become independent, but the heads of at least three of those municipalities say they're not interested in a breakup.
The Ontario government announced its plans for other regional municipalities on the same day it tabled legislation to break apart Peel Region and turn Mississauga, Brampton and Caledon into independent cities.
In a news release on Thursday, the province said facilitators will look at Durham, Halton, Niagara, Simcoe, Waterloo and York Regions. All six are upper-tier municipalities.
But the heads of Durham, Waterloo and Simcoe Regions said the current form of governance in their respective areas is working and that they are delivering services to residents efficiently.
John Henry, regional chair of the Regional Municipality of Durham, said in a statement on Thursday that "there have been no concerns raised about the size or structure" of that regional government.
"Our region and the eight local municipalities have a productive and strong track record of working together to serve our residents. Together, we provide the backbone of service delivery in a two-tier structure that ensures services are planned, funded and delivered in a cost-effective manner; and on a large geographic scale," Henry said.
"This co-operation and accountability allow us to avoid duplication of efforts. Together, we maintain Durham's reputation as a community where equitable, high-quality services are available to everyone."
Karen Redman, regional chair of the Regional Municipality of Waterloo, said in an interview Thursday that a breakup is not needed.
"My first reaction is that we do not want to be split like Peel," Redman said.
"We are looking forward to working with the province and the facilitator, and I expect the facilitator will hear from all of the municipalities about the incredible services at municipal staff provide on a daily basis."
Redman said the region is "stronger together" and the area has a "strong history of collaboration."
Basil Clarke, warden of the County of Simcoe, said the county works well with its 16 member municipalities and two separated cities.
"The County of Simcoe has, and continues to be, a highly efficient and effective level of government, serving its residents extremely well and working cooperatively with a range of partners and multiple levels of government," Clarke said.
Clarke added that the situation is different in Simcoe County than it is in Peel Region.