Toronto is Canada's largest city, yet it lacks the autonomy to govern its own municipal affairs without constant overreach from Doug Ford’s provincial government. I have been advocating for a City Charter - a legal framework that would give Toronto the authority to make its own decisions on critical issues like housing, transit, and budgeting without constant provincial interference. This is a necessary one for strengthening democracy, transparency, and accountability. While a Charter requires provincial cooperation, laying the groundwork now will help build the case for a more empowered and responsive city government. That’s why I moved a motion in Council to start the work on a new arrangement with senior levels of government that ensures we have the independence necessary for 21st century cities to thrive and achieve results for residents.
This working group has now reported back with recommendations for a public participation process on Charter stewardship. You can read the full report here.