Ontario municipalities have more authority now than they had in the past and, with increased authority, comes the need for greater accountability, the minister said. We re aiming for better municipal services and clear government accountability. Calling it cutting-edge, the minister announced the program today at the annual Counties and Regions conference. Starting with 2000 data, all municipalities will measure their performances in nine high-cost service areas, including water, fire and road services. They will then submit their data to the province and inform taxpayers on how effective and efficient they were in delivering these services.
Taxpayers can expect the first report from their municipalities next summer.
Municipalities will be able to compare their costs and performances, both internally, year to year, and in relation to other Ontario jurisdictions. By sharing their methods with other communities, municipalities can continuously improve their performances. Municipalities across Ontario have found more efficient, more effective ways to deliver services, the minister explained. Measuring and reporting on performance is a systematic means of sharing a wealth of information and experience for the benefit of taxpayers across the province. What sets this program apart is that all local governments will participate and taxpayers will have access to current information on the quality and cost of services in their communities, he added.