I believe the changes being implemented by the province are a disservice to our vibrant communities and our residents who deserve a direct voice in choosing their leadership,” said John Henry, Durham Regional Chair and CEO.
He was responding to the fundamental change the province made yesterday as to how regions are governed in Ontario. Moving forward, regional chairs will be appointed by the province, not elected by the residents of Durham Region as they voted for in the 2010 referendum.
“I am disappointed by this decision. Serving as Durham’s elected regional chair has been a great honour of my career, and together we’ve had great success,” said Henry. “I am deeply grateful for the trust and support of our residents throughout these many years.”
Over the past eight years, the Region of Durham has effectively planned and delivered major regional services and co-ordinated growth and infrastructure across municipal boundaries in a way that reflects the needs of our diverse urban, suburban and rural communities, Henry said in a statement.
“While my role as the elected chair is coming to an end, my commitment to this community is not. I look forward to continuing to serve the people of Durham in a different capacity and contributing to the growth and success of our region in new ways,” Henry said.
“Durham Region will always be my home, and I remain deeply proud of all that we have accomplished together,” he added.
Can Ford seize control of Toronto like it wants with Durham?
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The Durham Regional Council has become a bloated middle management nightmare with Henry leading the way.
Mentions the last 8 years as success. So Roger Andersons term as the first elected Chairman not worthy.
I pay over $16,000 a year in property taxes in Whitby for a normal bungalow .
Highest in Ontario , more than double that of Toronto.
The province created this mess 50 years ago so now they are trying to fix it.
Henry and CEO make a combined salary of almost $600,000 , people in Durham might wake up , most have no idea what they are paying out.