The City of Pickering council has formally approved a Notice of Motion (Resolution #716/25) outlining measures to address potential economic impacts of U.S. tariff threats.
The motion includes directives to align municipal procurement with federal and provincial strategies, prioritize Canadian suppliers, and advocate for reduced inter-provincial trade barriers.
Key Directives
Procurement Alignment: The City of Pickering will align its procurement strategies with any federal or provincial legislation or guidance issued in response to U.S. tariffs. This aims to support a “unified, cross-Canada approach” leveraging municipal purchasing power to advance national trade and economic goals.
Inter-Provincial Trade Barriers: Pickering calls on the federal and provincial governments to “take action to remove inter-provincial trade barriers between provinces” as part of Canada’s response to U.S. tariffs, emphasizing support for Canadian businesses.
Domestic Procurement Priority: Council has directed staff to adopt procurement strategies that “prioritize Canadian and other non-U.S. goods and services over those of the U.S., where feasible.” City departments must also conduct a review of purchased goods and services to adopt Canadian or non-American alternatives “where possible.”
Local Business Collaboration: Through its Economic Development & Strategic Projects Department, the city will engage local businesses and stakeholders to assess tariff impacts and “collaborate on strategies to strengthen the local economy.”
Financial Flexibility Measures:
- The Director of Finance & Treasurer is directed to amend the city’s Purchasing Policy thresholds to allow staff greater flexibility in supporting local businesses, particularly for “low-dollar purchases,” while complying with Canadian Trade Agreements.
- The Director is delegated authority to approve contract extensions during periods of supply chain uncertainty or pricing volatility, effective through the 2025 budget year.
- The Director may also approve additional financing for tariff-related cost overruns without council approval, unless reserves are required. This authority expires after the 2025 budget year.
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