Regional Government Review

Provincial Review of Regional Governments Across Ontario

The provincial government process to review regional governments across the province has been completed. 

The purpose of the review was to ensure that regional governments (including the Niagara Region) and member municipalities (including Lincoln) across Ontario are working effectively and efficiently, and continue to provide the essential services that our communities rely on.

In Spring 2019, the Province encouraged local input about how regional governments and member municipalities can improve governance, decision-making, and delivery of vital services. 

On Oct. 25, 2019, Minister Clark announced that there will be no forced amalgamations or service reviews across the Ontario as a result of the review, rather, the Minister indicated that local municipal governments should determine what is best for their communities.

The Province also re-announced the extension of two municipal funding programs designed to enable municipalities to find efficiencies in services and programs. The application-based programs will now provide municipalities with access to additional funds to support municipal transformation efforts.

It was also announced that the Province would review aligning the municipal fiscal year with upper levels of government – this will help streamline financial planning.

For more information on the Provincial announcement, please see the following two media releases:

• Ontario Helping Make Municipalities Stronger
• Ontario Putting People First by Supporting Smart, Efficient Municipal Service Delivery

Background

Jan. 15, 2019 – Special Advisors Appointed to Begin Regional Government Review

About the Regional Government Review – web page providing information in detail about the review

March 13, 2019 - Government Invites Feedback on Regional Government Review