Mayoral Direction

The Town of Oakville acknowledges the potentially significant economic impact of the recent tariff measures proposed between the United States and Canada on trade, affecting local businesses, procurement costs, and municipal operations.

The Town of Oakville must ensure that any response aligns with existing trade agreements and maintains compliance with applicable procurement regulations, while exploring all feasible municipal actions to mitigate negative impacts.

The CAO shall undertake the following:

1. Municipal task force on trade and procurement: 
   • The Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) shall convene a cross-departmental staff task force (Task Force) to assess, develop, and report on legally and financially viable municipal responses.
   • The Task Force shall include the CAO and appropriate representatives from town departments, as determined by the CAO, to ensure an informed and comprehensive approach.
2.   Local procurement and contract review:
   • The Task Force shall lead an internal review to identify applicable contracts and determine:
     • The feasibility of shifting procurement from U.S. companies without violating existing trade agreements or compromising fiscal responsibility.
     • Cost implications and potential funding sources for any procurement adjustments.
     • Any necessary legal considerations under domestic and international trade agreements.
3.  Economic impact assessment and business support, should tariffs be implemented:
   • The Task Force shall lead engagement with impacted local businesses to:
     • Understand expected financial impacts (e.g., cost increases, export reductions, job losses).
     • Identify business needs and available municipal support measures.
     • Identify provincial/federal support measures and advocacy initiatives.
   • A report summarizing findings and recommended municipal interventions shall be presented to Council.
4.   Transparency and public communication
   • The Task Force shall lead the preparation of public information updates for Oakville businesses and residents summarizing the municipal response and available resources.
   • Regular updates on trade-related impacts shall be provided to Council.

Staff shall ensure that all proposed actions are legally compliant, financially responsible, and aligned with best practices for municipal governance.

The Task Force shall submit a final recommendations report to Council for further direction and implementation.

Date: February 4, 2025

Rob Burton

Mayor

Authority:  Section 284.3 of the Municipal Act, 2001