Halifax Mayor Andy Fillmore answers questions from reporters at City Hall on Tuesday. Photo by Ryan Taplin /The Chronicle HeraldArticle contentA closed-door meeting monopolized the council meeting Tuesday, but during a break Halifax Mayor Andy Fillmore scrummed with reporters on the hot topic of potential strong mayor powers.THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY.Subscribe now to access this story and more:Unlimited access to the website and appExclusive access to premium content, newsletters and podcastsFull access to the e-Edition app, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment onEnjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalistsSupport local journalists and the next generation of journalistsSUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES.Subscribe or sign in to your account to continue your reading experience.Unlimited access to the website and appExclusive access to premium content, newsletters and podcastsFull access to the e-Edition app, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment onEnjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalistsSupport local journalists and the next generation of journalistsRegister to unlock more articles.Create an account or sign in to continue your reading experience.Access additional stories every monthShare your thoughts and join the conversation in our commenting communityGet email updates from your favourite authorsSign In or Create an AccountorArticle contentHe said he hasn’t made a formal request but there have been informal conversations with the province on the priorities they share, including affordability, housing, congestion and fiscal restraint.Article contentArticle contentArticle content“I think some change is needed, yes.”Article contentMunicipal Affairs Minister John Lohr has said that these powers have been discussed but has dodged questions about any related legislation being drafted.Article contentCoun. Sam Austin (Dartmouth Centre) added a four-part motion to Tuesday’s meeting that council, through the mayor, request that the province consult with councillors before drafting any legislation on strong mayor powers.Article contentFillmore spoke to reporters before that item was addressed Tuesday.Article content‘This is all about the people’Article contentFillmore said he believes in consultation, but it’s not needed in this case.Article content“It is a predictable and common trait of bureaucracies that grow over time to protect themselves to guard the status quo. I’m a little less interested in consulting with the very organizational structure that needs, I believe, amending than I am with consulting with the people who we need to serve,” Fillmore said.Article contentArticle content“For me, this is all about the people that are outside of that chamber, not the people that are in it.”Article contentArticle contentIf Nova Scotia echoes Ontario, strong mayor powers would involve the mayor appointing staff, including the chief administrative officer, who would report to the mayor’s office instead of council. The mayor could also veto or override some motions, while others would only require a one-third vote. These would particularly be motions on issues that align with provincial priorities.Article contentFirst thing to changeArticle contentAsked what he would prioritize if he gets these powers, Fillmore said changing the fact that “right now the power in the organization is concentrated with an unelected CAO.” These powers include setting the municipal agenda, creating a budget and directing staff, he added.
Slow Halifax City Hall needs fixing, and strong mayor powers will help: Fillmore
