The Town of Petawawa is pushing back against the Ontario government’s proposal to expand Strong Mayor Powers to more municipalities, including theirs. In a public council meeting held on April 23, councilors voiced concerns that such powers would weaken collaboration and the democratic process at the municipal level.
In a letter dated April 9, the province proposed expanding Strong Mayor Powers, which would allow mayors to unilaterally advance provincial priorities, bypassing full council approval. Petawawa’s council responded firmly, saying the move could create division and reduce transparency in local decision-making.
Council members emphasized that they are already working toward provincial goals—especially when it comes to housing and infrastructure. In 2024, the town processed 120 new dwellings and expanded its planning department to speed up approvals. Currently, more than 1,100 new residential units are either under review or under construction. The town is also preparing for major growth from organizations like Garrison Petawawa and Canadian Nuclear Laboratories, which are expected to bring 1,100 more people and families to the area.
While committed to growth, Petawawa council say their greatest challenge is not governance—but funding. They pointed out a $2.3 million loss in Payment In Lieu of Taxes (PILT) over the past two years and reductions in Ontario Municipal Partnership Funding and Community Infrastructure Funding.
“To meet housing demand, we need financial support to expand water and wastewater systems,” the council wrote. “Instead of changing how we govern, we need the province’s help to fund vital infrastructure.”
Petawawa Council is now asking the Ontario government to exclude the town from changes that would apply Strong Mayor Powers to more municipalities. They are also requesting assistance in securing infrastructure funding to support the town’s rapid residential and commercial growth.
(Written by: Emma Butler)