Improving civic democracy

Ten years ago, amalgamation increased the size of our municipal government. At the same time, it reduced opportunities for the public to become involved in local decision-making. Finding ways to connect with the City and to feel a sense of ownership over its processes can be difficult for Toronto residents, especially new Canadians. Citizens can be hard-pressed to gain a sense of the City’s current priorities and its path for the future.

If residents do not feel that they have a stake in the City, they will not take part in the electoral process. Low voter turnouts in recent elections are a very telling testament.

The next mayor and council must determine how to better reach out to city residents as citizens, and not simply as consumers of services. Some key considerations include:

• The relationships between the mayor, the executive, council, City staff and the public
• Clearer definitions of ethical standards
• The resources and powers for the auditor general, ombudsman and accountability offices
• The opportunities for public participation through such arenas as community councils and through measures such as multi-year budgeting

Discussion questions

• How can the need for strong citywide strategic planning and execution be improved? Is strengthening the mayor or the executive committee the answer?
• Would more oversight improve the City’s ability to deliver services, or should efforts be directed toward fundamental reform of the City’s operations?
• How can neighbourhood-level decision-making on matters of truly local concern be improved without compromising the ability of the mayor and council to set and pursue a citywide agenda?
• Should efforts be focused on reforming the community councils or devolving powers to smaller units?
• Should municipal political parties, or “slates,” be encouraged?

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