Podcast: Doug Ford’s Battle for Toronto City Council

Is democracy under attack in Canada's largest city?   

Ontario's new government has turned upside down the upcoming Municipal Election in Toronto by announcing legislation to reduce the size of Toronto City Council from 47 this fall, to 25. As well, the Province is suspending the upcoming election of Regional Chairs in Peel, York and Muskoka riding (former OPC Leader Patrick Brown’s riding). Under the BNA Act of 1867, provinces have the power to make these changes.  Municipalities are creatures of the Province .

Changes to be introduced by the Province are defended by the PC's as streamlining Council.  To make it work better and quicker.   The idea of the strong mayor type system is something Doug Ford, has called for before.