Cobourg councillor offers early thoughts on strong mayor powers calling for review

On April 9, the provincial government granted 169 municipalities strong mayor powers. Cobourg was one of them. This means the mayor can create or dissolve committees, appoint or dismiss town directors and managers, reorganize municipal departments, and draft budgets for council’s consideration. One of the most significant powers the mayor will have is the ability to veto council decisions that do not align with the priorities of the provincial government. And, while the mayor can be overridden by a two-thirds majority vote of council, it represents a significant shift of power. Cobourg councillor Miriam Mutton will give her initial thoughts on these new powers and what it means to council and Cobourg residents. See what you think of her interpretation.