Jennie Stevens says people need to have say if reducing size of regional council to 13, including Chair
Plenty of concern raised by St. Catharines NDP MPP Jennie Stevens about the government's plan to reduce the size of regional council.
Minister of Municipal Affairs Rob Flack said today Niagara will be run by an appointed Chair, and the 12 elected mayors.
Stevens today emphasized any changes must be driven by public input and evidence, not political confusion.
She says "Rogue letters sent by local politicians have only muddied the water, taking a 'let's see what sticks' type of approach", and it shows Niagara is not united in this issue.
The MPP is also concerned about the new weighted voting idea, pointing out Minister Flack said "it's not about the money".
She says mayors will take on more responsibility, meaning salary increases are inevitable.
She wants the government to pause and ensure Niagara residents have a say.
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