Toronto applauds passage of City of Toronto Act
TORONTO, June 12 /CNW/ - The provincial government today passed Bill 53, The Stronger City of Toronto for a Stronger Ontario Act, 2005. Toronto has asked for the new Act to be in force for Council's new term.
The Act recognizes Toronto as Ontario's economic engine by providing it with more autonomy, authority and accountability needed in its role as a major urban centre. A strong Toronto means a strong Ontario.
The legislation gives the City greater access to tools and options to help develop "made-for-Toronto" policies that strengthen good governance, enhance economic growth and continue support for a good quality of life for
residents and businesses alike.
"This is an important day for Toronto," said Mayor David Miller. "Toronto will now have a stronger voice at the table with other orders of government when discussing policy, programs and budgets that affect this City. It will
have a broader range of financial tools to support the City's policy objectives and could reduce Toronto's reliance on property taxes, user fees and development charges.
"This is a significant step toward overall municipal reform," added Miller. "Cities are now being recognized as economic engines and cultural hubs of modern society. I applaud Premier Dalton McGuinty and the provincial
government for listening to Toronto and recognizing the unique needs of this
great city."
Visit our website at www.toronto.ca
For further information: Stuart Green, Office of the Mayor, (416) 338-7119
