Item - 2013.EX29.11
Tracking Status
- This item was considered by Executive Committee on March 20, 2013. The Executive Committee postponed consideration of this item. Consult the text of the decision for further information on the deferral.
EX29.11 - Exploring Term Limits for City Councillors and Mayor - Motion MM30.8 referred by City Council on February 20 and 21, 2013
- Decision Type:
- ACTION
- Status:
- Deferred
- Wards:
- All
Committee Decision
The Executive Committee deferred the Item indefinitely.
Origin
Summary
Many cities impose a term limit on elected representatives to encourage a healthy turnover in representation and ideas. Toronto must investigate if limiting the length of time Councillors and the Mayor can remain in office will make Toronto's government more reflective of the demographics and political aspirations of this City's residents.
Participation in municipal politics in Toronto is lacking. Toronto needs to discuss whether or not term limits will encourage greater engagement in civic politics. If term limits will ensure that Torontonians get the representation they deserve, they should be adopted. This Motion is intended to explore if term limits are the key to making Toronto City Council more reflective of the demographics, ideas and talents of Toronto.
The Municipal Elections Act (1996) details who can be a candidate for municipal office in any municipality on Ontario. Currently there is no limit to the number of consecutive times a Toronto City Councillor or Mayor can be elected.
(Submitted to City Council on February 20 and 21, 2013 as MM30.8)
Background Information
https://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2013/ex/bgrd/backgroundfile-56466.pdf
Letter from Councillor Mary-Margaret McMahon submitted to City Council for its meeting of February 20 and 21, 2013
https://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2013/ex/bgrd/backgroundfile-56670.pdf