Escaping from the Straightjacket That Baffled Houdini: An Analysis of the Myths and Realities of Empowering Toronto Through a City Charter

Author

Luis Silva, Western University

Date of Award

7-30-2005

Degree Type

Major Research Paper

Degree Name

Master of Public Administration

Program

Political Science

Supervisor

Sancton, Andrew

Geographical Areas

Toronto, Saint John, New Brunswick, Montreal, Quebec, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Vancouver, British Columbia, Lloydminster, Alberta

Abstract

This paper examines the idea that municipalities in Canada – with a specific focus on Toronto – can be legally empowered by a legislative charter to defend their autonomy from the actions of the provincial government. Case studies that analyze the political and legal relationships that selected charter cities – Saint John, Montreal, Halifax, Winnipeg, Vancouver, and Lloydminster – have with their respective province were conducted. The findings reveal that while provinces may politically treat some municipalities differently than others, no legal differentiation exists between charter cities and other municipalities with regards to protecting local self-government.

Recommended Citation

Silva, Luis, "Escaping from the Straightjacket That Baffled Houdini: An Analysis of the Myths and Realities of Empowering Toronto Through a City Charter" (2005). MPA Major Research Papers. 56.
https://ir.lib.uwo.ca/lgp-mrps/56