Durham Region and eight local area municipalities: strong partners who are working together

Whitby, Ontario – The following joint statement is being issued on behalf of the Durham Regional Chair and the Mayors from all eight local area municipalities of Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, Oshawa, Clarington, Brock, Scugog and Uxbridge:

“Being a community leader means working to make positive impacts on people’s lives; overseeing high-quality programs and services that impact our cities and towns every single day. It’s about driving economic opportunities that enhance the quality of life we all enjoy here in Durham Region.

We are proud of our partnership; our close to 50 years of mutual respect. We focus on delivering a two-tier government model that is fiscally responsible. A model that delivers vital services across municipal borders, such as clean water, policing, paramedics and more. We have a Regional Triple A credit rating that benefits us all, regardless of municipal boundary. 

We have the largest geographic area in the Greater Toronto Area (2,500 square kilometres). However, with a region-wide population of about 743,000 residents, the current two-tier model is the best choice; providing fiscally responsible savings for our programs and services through economies of scale.

Just like all families, we’ve leaned on, learned from, and supported one another during some very difficult times. Like every good team, our mutual respect, effective co-operation, and spirit of understanding have propelled us through more difficult times. Locally, we have dealt with a global pandemic and significant damage from catastrophic weather events. We got through it together.

Similar to our position in 2019, when the Regional Government Review was announced, we welcome opportunities to review our processes, find efficiencies and look forward to learning about innovative approaches and how we can work better together. We understand that creating affordable housing units is essential. Growth must be managed effectively. 

Our core reason to stand together? Our residents. We work together to keep our communities safe, healthy and growing.”

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For media requests, please contact CorporateCommunications@durham.ca.