Kevin Davis, Mayor for the City of Brantford is taking decisive action by using his delegated authority under the Strong Mayors Act, to respond to tariffs that could have a devastating impact on the Canadian economy, local jobs, and the community.
Davis has directed City staff to explore amendments to Brantford’s procurement bylaw, adopting a “Canada First” approach. Additionally, he is forming a Working Group to assess risks, identify solutions, develop strategic actions, and collaborate with local businesses to strengthen Brantford’s economic resilience.
“Protecting local jobs and businesses must be our top priority. In anticipation of U.S. tariffs, over the coming weeks, I will work closely with our business community and City staff to develop strategic solutions, while also advocating to other levels of government,” said Mayor Davis. “Government action must be timely, coordinated, and significant. Like other Mayors across Ontario, I urge residents to shop local, buy Canadian whenever possible, and recognize that every purchasing decision matters now more than ever. It is also essential that the City of Brantford’s response aligns with existing trade agreements, remains compliant with procurement regulations, and explores all feasible municipal actions to mitigate negative impacts.”
In accordance with subsection 284.3 of the Municipal Act, 2001 (the “Act”), Mayor Davis has provided direction to the CAO and staff to undertake a series of measures as outlined below.
City of Brantford Trade and Procurement Working Group
The CAO will establish a cross-departmental Trade and Procurement Working Group, including representatives from relevant City departments, to assess and develop legally and financially viable municipal responses. Building on the work that Councillor Rose Sicoli has been undertaking regarding updates to the City’s procurement processes, the Working Group will engage local businesses, review procurement and contracts, providing Council with a report that evaluates the feasibility, financial impact, and legal considerations of various measures.
The report will ensure compliance with trade agreements and procurement policies while prioritizing Brantford’s economic interests, and as such, engaging with local businesses and business leaders will be essential. Input from the Brantford Chamber of Commerce and local businesses will play a pivotal role in shaping the recommendations, ensuring they reflect the realities and needs of the local business community.
The business community will be engaged to provide input on several key areas to inform the recommendations including, assessing anticipated financial impacts, such as cost increases, export reductions, and potential job losses. Business stakeholders will also help identify business needs and explore municipal support measures that could be available. Additionally, input will be sought on leveraging provincial and federal support initiatives and coordinating advocacy efforts.
Additional key considerations for the Working Group will include:
- Limiting contract renewals and new contracts to Canadian-only companies, where legally permissible
- Pausing procurement to reassess vendor relationships and explore Canadian alternatives
- Ensuring all new purchases of goods and services prioritize Canadian companies whenever possible
- Ending all non-essential staff conferences or trips to the United States, except for advocacy efforts to influence tariff removal
- Reporting on projected costs and identifying funding sources for any measures implemented in response to the imposed tariffs
The Working Group will present their findings and recommendations to Council for further direction and implementation at a Special Council Meeting on March 4, 2025.
