Amalgamation 'not acceptable,' Cambridge Mayor Kathryn McGarry tells province
Cambridge wants two-tier structure of government to remain, mayor says
"Amalgamation into one city is not acceptable."
That's the first point of four Cambridge Mayor Kathryn McGarry says she told two special advisers conducting a review of regional municipalities on behalf of the province.
On Tuesday, McGarry issued a statement where she detailed what she said to advisers Ken Seiling and Michael Fenn when she met with them on Feb. 7. Each of the leaders in Waterloo region met with Seiling and Fenn separately.
McGarry says the meeting allowed her to "articulate Cambridge's position."
She said the city's will focus on advocating for a two-tier structure of government. She said she hoped the regional review would be an opportunity to improve services and that changes from the province should be driven by local municipalities.
In January, the Progressive Conservative government announced plans to review the province's regional governments, which include: Halton, York, Durham, Waterloo region, Niagara, Peel, Muskoka District, Oxford County, and the County of Simcoe — and their lower-tier municipalities.
Room for change
McGarry says she sees room for change, though.
As an example, she said the region could focus on regional policy, such as the countryside line and source water protection.
The lower tier municipalities could focus on local land use planning to help ease the planning process for anyone looking to build, renovate or develop.
Who does what between the region and lower-tier municipalities could also be more clear, she said.
"By providing this increased clarity on which level of government is responsible for which service, we simplify our processes for taxpayers and businesses alike," she said.
She said she will continue to discuss the issue with regional staff and wants to hear from local businesses and the community.