Pickering Mayor Kevin Ashe says he is considering using his expanded authority as Durham Region’s new chair during the budget process and to appoint committee leaders, CBC News reports.

Ashe was among eight regional chairs appointed by the Ontario government Tuesday under legislation replacing elections for those positions with provincial appointments. The new “strong chair” powers include proposing municipal budgets, directing staff, appointing or dismissing senior administrators and vetoing certain bylaws.

Speaking to CBC reporter Rochelle Raveendran, Ashe said he may use the authority to appoint standing committee chairs and vice-chairs. He will also consider changes to reporting arrangements among Durham’s senior staff.

He pointed to his record as Pickering mayor, saying he has not used strong mayor powers to fast-track legislation or bylaws, or exercised his veto. He called that record “the best indication of the future.”

Whitby Mayor Elizabeth Roy said she hopes regional councillors will retain a meaningful role in decisions. Roy told CBC she has used strong mayor powers only for the budget, with council still providing input and amendments.

“I’m hoping that there is inclusion into the decisions that are being made,” she said.

Ashe’s appointment also raises questions about his simultaneous roles as Pickering mayor and regional chair. He said he will receive only the regional chair’s salary and sit on regional council solely as chair. Pickering council will select a member to serve as his designate, he said.

Asked about concerns that Pickering could receive preferential treatment, Ashe said provincial regulations expected within weeks would provide safeguards against perceived conflicts of interest. CBC said it had asked the province for details.

Outgoing regional chair John Henry wished Ashe success but reiterated his objection to ending direct elections for the position.

“While I remain disappointed by the decision to remove residents’ ability to directly elect the regional chair, I wish Kevin success in his new role,” Henry said in a statement to CBC.

Ashe said appointed chairs expect provincial mandate letters outlining priorities by year’s end. Municipal Affairs and Housing Minister Rob Flack said he wants to develop those priorities collaboratively with each chair.

Ashe identified affordability, housing, homelessness and addiction as areas where he believes provincial and municipal priorities will align.

Sources