Council made a number of decisions that affect the non-statutory powers of the Mayor and delegated some of these responsibilities to the Deputy Mayor for the balance of the term – until November 30 of next year.
The Mayor retains his statutory powers under the City of Toronto Act and other Acts. Statutory powers are enshrined in provincial law and are not under the control of City Council. These powers include providing leadership to Council, and representing and promoting the City locally, nationally and internationally. The role also includes fostering activities that enhance the economic, social and environmental well-being of the City.
On November 15, Council amended its own bylaws to suspend the power of the Mayor to appoint the Deputy Mayor and the Chairs of the City’s Standing Committees. Council also delegated responsibilities to the Deputy Mayor with respect to the recruitment process for the City’s Accountability Officers. In addition, Council delegated authority to the Deputy Mayor to act on behalf of Council in the event of a major emergency. The Mayor retains his statutory authority in emergencies.
At Monday's Special Council meeting, City Council temporarily removed some of the Mayor's other powers and duties that are not assigned by statute. Suspending a provision in its procedure bylaw, Council decided that the Deputy Mayor would be assigned to the role of Chair of the City’s Executive Committee. The Mayor remains a member of the City's Executive Committee.
Council also directed on Monday that the budget of the Office of the Mayor be reduced for the balance of this year and for 2014. Some of the budget for the Mayor's Office will be re-allocated to the City Clerk's Office to be administered under the oversight of the Deputy Mayor.