Local Government

There are three levels of government with different responsibilities:

1.The federal government - the Government of Canada - is responsible for things that affect the whole country, such as citizenship, national defence and trade with other countries.

2. Provincial and territorial governments - including the Province of Ontario - are responsible for such things as education, health care and highways.

3. Municipal governments - the governments of cities, towns, and villages in Ontario - are responsible for firefighting, city streets and other local matters. If there is no local government, services are provided by the province.

Local government in Canada lies at a lower level than federal and provincial government. Local government includes general municipalities, as well as more specific bodies such as school boards, and regional health authorities.

Most local governments are formed by a charter or act granted by the province or territory.

At the municipal level:

The Province of Ontario defines the structure, finances, and management of the local governments of cities, towns and villages.

Residents of the municipality elect the Mayor and Council members to lead the local government. Committees of councillors discuss budget, service and administrative issues that are then passed on to the Council for debate. Citizens, business owners and community groups can present their concerns to councillors at committee meetings.