Regional Government Review

FAQs on Regional Government Review

Who conducted the Regional Government Review, and why?
The Province of Ontario initiated a Regional Government Review in January 2019. The objective of the review was to ensure the identified municipalities are providing the vital services that residents and local business depend on, in an efficient manner. The Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing appointed Ken Seiling and Michael Fenn as Special Advisors to assist with this review.
Which municipalities were reviewed?
Eight regional governments (Durham, Halton, Muskoka District, Niagara, Oxford County, Peel, Waterloo, York), Simcoe County and their lower-tier municipalities were reviewed. All municipalities included in the review are available here.
What is the City’s stance on the Review?
Following extensive public consultation and based on third-party financial analysis reports, the City of Brampton’s Council voted to keep the current structure of the Region of Peel. This was the preferred option in order to protect Peel Region taxpayers from significant cost impacts.
How was the Review carried out and what was the City’s role?
In January 2019, the Province launched its consultation with various ways for the public to get involved, including online and in-person opportunities.

In additional to the Province’s consultation, the City of Brampton carried out a separate public engagement campaign, including a Telephone Town Hall, In-Person Town Hall, On-Line Survey and online comment form. A summary of each of these initiatives are available online and were presented to the Province.
What research was conducted regarding the pros and cons of changing regional government structure?
The Region of Peel, the Cities of Brampton and Mississauga, and Town of Caledon commissioned the firm Ernst & Young (EY) to conduct a financial analysis of the potential impact of changes to service delivery models under three scenario: Status Quo, Amalgamation and Dissolution over a forecast period to 2028.

EY’s financial analysis shows an upper bound cost to deliver services spread over 10 years across all municipalities: $755M over 10 years in case of a Dissolution and $629M over 10 years to deliver services in case of an Amalgamation.

Review Outcome

What is the outcome of the Regional Government Review?
The Province of Ontario announced on October 25, 2019 it would maintain the current structure of Region of Peel.
What is the City’s response to this announcement?
The City of Brampton welcomes this announcement. The City believes the existing model ensures Brampton residents continue to receive core Regional services in the most cost effective and efficient way possible.
Was this the desired outcome for Brampton?
Yes. The City of Brampton heard loud and clear from residents and stakeholders that keeping the current governance structure of Region of Peel and its City Councils was the most cost-effective approach. Based on public input, Brampton City Council’s Resolution in May 2019 was to maintain the current structure as it helps protect the best interest of Peel Region taxpayers.
The Province has announced $143M funding for municipalities to help lower costs and improve services. Will Brampton apply to this funding?
Brampton will partner with the province to utilize the $143 million in new funding to municipalities to find smarter, more efficient ways to operate and focus spending on vital programs and services for Brampton residents. Currently, Service Reviews are already underway at the City of Brampton and we welcome the Province’s announcement of $143M for Ontario municipalities. Accessing this funding will help Brampton seek greater effectiveness and reduce costs to deliver best value to taxpayers.