York Region council decided today to hold a vote for its chair and return Wayne Emmerson to the position despite provincial plans to appoint him.
Council voted 14-7 in favour of Emmerson over Markham Regional Councillor Joe Li. Emmerson is returning for a third term, voted in just a day after the province introduced legislation that would have appointed him to the position regardless.
Emmerson said work on the Yonge-North Subway Extension and housing would be priorities in the council term ahead, and suggested the cost of the coming regional growth should not fall on residents.
“More and more individuals and families will rely on us for essential programs and services,” he said. “While the tasks may seem daunting, our council has a strong history of working in partnership with all levels of the government.
“We will continue to work with local partners at all levels to support local planning decisions and ensure the financial burden of growth-related infrastructure does not sit with our existing, present residents,” he added.
The vote occurred despite the province introducing a new bill that included the appointment of Emmerson, along with chairs in Peel and Niagara regions. The bill will also see York Region and other regions examined for “strong mayor” powers, and review for “the best mix of roles and responsibilities between upper and lower-tier government.”
In a memo, regional clerk Christopher Raynor said council could continue with a vote understanding the legislation could impact it, or pause the inaugural meeting to allow the legislation to go through.
“It is clear that the minister’s proposed powers can overturn any appointment made by regional council,” Raynor said.
But council went ahead with a vote, with Emmerson getting contested by Li. The challenger and his backers, including Markham regional councillors Jim Jones and Alan Ho, described his immigrant background and his experience in the business world and on council. Li also said he would introduce a motion to limit the role of the chair, including cutting off the chair vote.
“We have an opportunity today for fresh, open, inclusive thought this term,” he said.
However, Emmerson ultimately was successful in his re-election bid. He said council needs “strong leadership” and experience to meet the challenges going forward.
Newmarket’s council representatives, who both voted in favour of Emmerson, also offered their thoughts on the term ahead. Newmarket Mayor John Taylor said housing would be a priority at this level.
“We all know the depth of that challenge,” he said, adding investment into social services would also be key. “We’re very good at the region at building roads, building pipes, transit, but we need to do more and work harder, and put more resources into the human services and into the social services."
Deputy Mayor Tom Vegh said one of the most pressing issues is accommodating the rapidly growing senior population.
“We, as a regional government, must bring our seniors' issues to the forefront in our decision-making and advocacy,” he said, adding that more affordable housing options for seniors are important.
