Minister announces no “top down” approach: Local municipalities will decide what is best for local service delivery, governance and decision making

The Regional Municipality of Halton
For Immediate Release
October 25, 2019

Minister announces no “top down” approach: Local municipalities will decide what is best for local service delivery, governance and decision making

Today at the Association of Municipalities of Ontario Fall Policy Forum, the Honourable Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing provided an update to the municipalities on the Regional Review. The Ontario Government has decided not to impose changes in size or structure to municipal governments. Instead, Ontario is providing $143 million to local municipalities to help lower costs and improve services for residents over the long-term.

“Thanks to Premier Ford and Minister Clark for recognizing that Halton Region is a safe community, with low taxes, the highest credit rating and where 97 per cent of residents are satisfied with the quality of Halton Region services,” said Halton Regional Chair Gary Carr. “We appreciate the Minister’s recognition that municipalities are best positioned to determine what works for their communities and for not imposing a top down approach. I would also like to thank Halton residents for participating in this consultation process through their letters, delegations and submissions.”

Halton Region continues to provide effective and efficient programs and services to more than 580,000 residents and businesses. The Region has always been fiscally responsible with low taxes and a AAA credit rating, while delivering high quality program and services. Halton Region and Regional Council provided input and feedback throughout the course of the consultation process and will continue to work with the province and local partners to deliver on what matters most to the community.

The Regional Municipality of Halton serves more than 580,000 residents in the City of Burlington, the Town of Halton Hills, the Town of Milton, and the Town of Oakville. Halton Region is committed to meeting the needs of its residents through the delivery of cost-effective, quality programs and services, including water and wastewater; Regional roads and planning; paramedic services; waste management; public health; social assistance; children’s and seniors’ services; housing services; heritage programs; emergency management and economic development. For more information, call 311 or visit Halton Region’s website at halton.ca.