Could N.S. be considering strong-mayor powers for Halifax?

Nova Scotia’s municipal affairs minister, John Lohr, is considering granting new powers to Halifax’s mayor, Andy Fillmore. The concept of “strong mayor” powers has been a topic of discussion nationwide, prompting Lohr to contemplate the potential implications for Nova Scotia.

Lohr stated that he is undecided on whether the PC government will introduce legislation regarding strong-mayor powers, emphasizing that the matter is still under review. The specifics of what these enhanced powers could entail in Nova Scotia remain unclear, and it is uncertain if the province will adopt a similar approach to Ontario.

In Ontario, Premier Doug Ford recently enacted legislation to empower mayors in Toronto and Ottawa with strong-mayor powers. These powers allow mayors to override bylaws without council approval, as well as make decisions regarding hiring and firing municipal administrative staff. Additionally, strong mayors take on the responsibility of preparing and presenting their city’s budget, a role typically held by council.

When questioned about whether Mayor Fillmore requested these powers, Lohr revealed that he has engaged in discussions with Fillmore and his predecessor, Mike Savage, but refrained from providing a definitive answer. Fillmore, in response to inquiries, emphasized his commitment to serving Halifax residents under any governing system, deferring to the premier for decisions on granting additional powers.

The potential implementation of strong-mayor powers in Halifax has raised concerns among experts in municipal management. David Arbuckle, executive director of the Association of Municipal Managers, Clerks, and Treasurers of Ontario, highlighted the risks associated with granting mayors authority over hiring and firing staff. This shift could compromise the independence of municipal employees and lead to political influence in decision-making processes.

Furthermore, granting a mayor veto power could significantly alter the council dynamic, diminishing the voices of elected representatives. Critics argue that such powers could undermine local democracy and prioritize individual interests over collective governance.

As Nova Scotia contemplates the introduction of strong-mayor powers, stakeholders urge thorough consultation with municipal officials to assess potential drawbacks and implications. Lessons from Ontario’s experience suggest that these powers may not necessarily result in achieving desired outcomes, such as increased housing development.

Premier Tim Houston’s alignment with Premier Ford on certain policy decisions indicates a potential inclination towards adopting a similar governance model in Nova Scotia. Mayor Fillmore’s experiences with council decisions underscore the complexities of municipal governance and the challenges of balancing diverse perspectives within the decision-making process.

In conclusion, the discussion surrounding strong-mayor powers in Halifax reflects a broader debate on governance structures and the distribution of authority within municipalities. The ultimate decision on whether to grant enhanced powers to Halifax’s mayor will shape the future landscape of municipal governance in Nova Scotia.