Mayor Kevin Davis has doubled down on his call for an independent study into the potential amalgamation of Brantford and the County of Brant, despite firm opposition from County officials. Davis insists that exploring the financial and operational benefits of a merger remains a necessary step for regional growth and efficiency.
In December 2024, the County of Brant released a strongly worded statement rejecting amalgamation and criticizing Davis’ proposal as misleading. The County emphasized its commitment to independence and highlighted existing collaborative efforts as sufficient for addressing shared challenges.
Mayor Davis issued a statement on January 2, 2025, responding to the County’s position, emphasizing that a regional approach to governance cannot be dismissed outright. “We must move beyond invisible boundaries and consider the benefits a regional approach can offer to our residents,” said Davis.
Despite resistance, Davis announced plans to use his strong mayoral powers to commission a fact-based study in 2025. The study will evaluate costs, service efficiencies, and long-term sustainability if amalgamation were to occur. Davis reassured residents that the process would be thorough, independent, and transparent.
“The objective here is not to force a decision but to gather the necessary information so that both municipalities can make informed choices about their future,” Davis stated.
Davis also addressed criticisms about previous collaborative efforts, particularly the Joint Services Committee formed in 2023. While the County labeled the committee ineffective, Davis defended its creation as a first step toward addressing mutual concerns, including transportation and infrastructure development.
“Collaboration should be about progress, not avoidance,” Davis said, pointing to the city’s ongoing efforts to enhance transit links and social services. He emphasized that shared services and joint funding models need careful review to ensure fairness for taxpayers on both sides.
Davis highlighted the need to support regional growth, particularly with projects like the proposed regional hospital. He dismissed claims that Brantford was undermining the County’s role, stating that healthcare infrastructure requires unified support.
“This isn’t about taking anything away from Brant. It’s about building something better for all of us,” Davis said.
Mayor Davis remains committed to pursuing the study, aiming to present findings to council and regional leaders by the fall of 2025. While tensions persist, Davis hopes that data-driven discussions can ease concerns and open doors to more collaborative governance.
There is no such concept of “data driven” discussions. At best they are forecasts, estimates or guesses by consultants based on massive assumptions. You only have data looking backward…after something happens and you measure tangible results.
All Brantford wants is our money. The county does not need to be refilling the debts he has created and allowed. People move to Paris, to St. George, to Burford and the other smaller places in Brant County to get away from city control. Those who have been here for a long(er) time want as little change as necessary and being part of a city full of problems is NOT on our agenda.
Having seen the damage done to Ancaster, Dundas, Waterdown and Stoney Creek when they were grabbed by Hamilton, against their choice, we need to be VERY vocal and fight this idea for the stupidity it is.