Halifax council directs the mayor to seek provincial collaboration before any move toward “strong mayor” powers, citing democratic concerns and public engagement.
Council Calls for Provincial Collaboration
Halifax Regional Council has formally directed Mayor Andy Fillmore to request collaboration from the Nova Scotia government before any consideration of “strong mayor” powers for the city. The motion passed overwhelmingly in a 16-to-1 vote, with Fillmore the sole dissenter.
Letter to Province and Federation Board Approved
The approved motion requires Fillmore to write to the provincial government and the Nova Scotia Federation of Municipalities Board, asking for dialogue and transparency on any plans to grant expanded powers to the mayor’s office. A second part of the motion, which includes a deadline and a request for a staff report, passed unanimously.
Divided Views on Power and Governance
Councillor Sam Austin, who introduced the motion, emphasized that “strong mayor” powers—like those recently granted in some Ontario municipalities—represent a fundamental shift. These powers could include the ability to appoint top officials without council approval. “This was never part of anyone’s campaign,” Austin noted. “We need to ensure the public is consulted on changes with lasting implications.”
Mayor Fillmore Defends Stronger Role
Mayor Fillmore, though pledging to follow the council’s direction, defended the idea of stronger mayoral authority. He argued that the current governance structure is outdated and hinders effective leadership. “This model doesn’t erode democracy; it sharpens its edge,” he said, pointing to his electoral mandate and frustrations with bureaucratic delays.
Public Debate and Political Response Intensify
Premier Tim Houston acknowledged discussions around strong mayor powers and referenced public dissatisfaction with recent council decisions, including bike lane expansions. He said there’s a growing disconnect between the council and residents’ priorities. Councillors, however, raised concerns that expanding mayoral powers could mute diverse voices and centralize decision-making.
Councillors Emphasize Democratic Values
Several councillors spoke out during Thursday’s meeting about maintaining democratic balance. “A strong leader does not require strong mayor powers,” said Coun. Shawn Cleary, while Coun. Laura White stressed the need for transparency and public involvement: “People need to know what’s going on here.”
Motion Stops Short of Taking a Final Position
The motion does not express outright opposition to strong mayor powers but aims to initiate public discussion and ensure that any structural changes are subject to broad consultation. A proposal to have the city’s chief administrative officer write the letter instead of the mayor was defeated in a 12–5 vote.
Next Steps Include Staff Review and Report
As part of the motion, council has also asked the chief administrative officer to produce a report on how strong mayor powers have been implemented in other Canadian cities. This review is expected to inform future debates as Halifax navigates its evolving political structure and relationship with the provincial government.
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