Brant County Mayor David Bailey says he will continue to govern with Council and staff despite the Ontario government’s decision to expand strong mayor powers to 169 municipalities, including Brant.
The province announced the move Thursday as part of its plan to accelerate the construction of 1.5 million new homes and related infrastructure.
Bailey, while supportive of the housing goals, emphasized that Brant’s tradition of shared decision-making will not change.
“I have the utmost respect for a democratically elected Council and for each member that I have the honour of serving beside,” he said in a statement.
“I believe in open and healthy debate and the principle of majority rule.”
Under the Municipal Act, strong mayor powers give mayors greater authority over budgets, staffing, and the structure of municipal administration.
Bailey has delegated most of those powers back to Chief Administrative Officer Alison Newton and to Council.
Newton will oversee municipal operations and staffing, while Council will retain control over board and committee appointments.
Bailey said the county is developing a revised budget process that respects the legislation but ensures budget decisions reflect majority vote, public input, and local priorities.
“It is my intention to work alongside both Council and the administration for the good of the County and our residents,” Bailey said.
