In response to impending U.S. tariffs that could severely impact local jobs and businesses, Brantford Mayor Kevin Davis is invoking his authority under Ontario’s Strong Mayors Act to protect the city’s economic interests. Davis has directed city staff to explore amendments to Brantford’s procurement bylaw, prioritizing Canadian-made goods and services in municipal purchasing decisions.
Additionally, the mayor is forming a Trade and Procurement Working Group to assess risks, develop strategic solutions, and collaborate with local businesses to mitigate potential economic fallout.
“Protecting local jobs and businesses must be our top priority,” Mayor Davis stated. “Over the coming weeks, I will work closely with our business community and city staff to develop strategic solutions while also advocating to other levels of government.”
Davis emphasized the importance of timely and coordinated government action, urging residents to prioritize Canadian-made products. “Every purchasing decision matters now more than ever,” he said, stressing that the city’s response must align with trade agreements and procurement regulations to ensure compliance.
Under the direction of the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), a cross-departmental working group will be established to evaluate and propose municipal responses. The group will focus on:
• Reviewing procurement contracts to determine where Canadian suppliers can be prioritized
• Consulting local businesses to assess the expected financial impact of tariffs, including potential job losses and increased costs
• Exploring municipal support measures for affected businesses
• Coordinating advocacy efforts with provincial and federal governments
Councillor Rose Sicoli, who has been leading efforts to update the city’s procurement policies, will be closely involved. Business stakeholders, including the Brantford Chamber of Commerce, will provide input to ensure the recommendations align with local economic realities.
Key actions under consideration by the Working Group include:
• Restricting contract renewals and new contracts to Canadian-based companies, where legally permissible
• Pausing procurement processes to reassess vendor relationships and explore Canadian alternatives
• Prioritizing Canadian suppliers for all new municipal purchases
• Limiting non-essential city-funded travel to the United States, except for advocacy efforts related to tariff removal
• Identifying funding sources for any financial impacts of the proposed measures
The Working Group’s findings and recommendations will be presented at a Special Council Meeting on March 4, 2025, where further municipal action will be determined.
Brantford’s Canada First approach reflects a growing municipal trend across Ontario as cities respond to economic uncertainty caused by international trade disputes. While the final scope of U.S. tariffs remains unclear, Mayor Davis’s swift response signals a proactive effort to safeguard local industry and reinforce Brantford’s economic resilience.
The city will continue engaging with local businesses, monitoring trade developments, and advocating at all levels of government to mitigate negative economic impacts.
