More than 160 members of Brantford’s business and civic community gathered at the Brantford Golf & Country Club Thursday morning for the Mayor’s Annual Address, where Mayor Kevin Davis laid out the city’s progress on key priorities, addressed concerns over U.S. tariffs, and emphasized Brantford’s economic diversification.
Hosted by the Brantford-Brant Chamber of Commerce, the “Brantford 2050” address aimed to provide an update on municipal objectives, infrastructure projects, and future outlooks, while reinforcing public-private collaboration during economically uncertain times.
Tariff Exposure Downplayed by Mayor
Brantford was recently ranked as the fifth most vulnerable city in Canada to U.S. tariffs, according to a February report by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce’s Business Data Lab, with an exposure index of 27.8%. However, Mayor Davis challenged the relevance of that ranking in the current context.
“That information is no longer correct,” Davis stated. “If the proposed 25% tariffs had been across the board, yes — the impact would have been significant. But since they’re focused on the auto sector, and Brantford isn’t heavily dependent on that industry, we’re not as vulnerable as Windsor or similar cities.”
He pointed to Brantford’s diversified economy and recent announcements like Ferro’s $500 million investment — expected to create 500 new jobs — as proof of the city’s economic resilience.
Strategic Priorities and Progress
Mayor Davis emphasized the city’s commitment to infrastructure upgrades, public transit improvements, and the development of affordable and social housing.
“We’re making real progress on the goals this council set two years ago,” he said. “That includes setting aside over $19 million for Brantford’s contribution to the new hospital project, even though decisions on that front rest with the province and the hospital board.”
He reiterated the city’s limited role in that project, describing it as primarily one of advocacy and financial preparedness.
Looking to the Future
When asked whether he would seek re-election in the next municipal cycle, Davis did not confirm any plans but said his priority is to see the current council’s strategic objectives through to completion.
“My goal is to work with senior staff and council to finish what we started — not everything, but enough to ensure that the next council is well-positioned to continue building a strong future for Brantford,” he said.
Chamber of Commerce Urges Pragmatic Optimism
John Oddi, president of the Brantford-Brant Chamber of Commerce, acknowledged the challenges facing the city but echoed the mayor’s optimism.
“Every hurdle is being met with a collaborative spirit,” said Oddi. “We’re working closely with the city to adapt — whether it’s exploring new markets or responding to policy changes. Businesses are pivoting, some scaling down, others growing. Ferro is a great example of growth even in turbulent times.”
Despite external economic pressures, Oddi encouraged the business community to remain prepared and flexible. “These are interesting times. But there’s good in it too. Our job is to deal with issues as they come — and be ready.”
The event also served as a fundraiser in support of Woodview Mental Health and Autism Services, a local organization supporting children and youth facing mental health challenges and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
