Outgoing District of Muskoka Chair Jeff Lehman voiced his frustrations about the province’s process of appointing his successor rather than leaving the selection to Muskoka residents.
In a statement posted to social media, Lehman said he “deeply disagreed” with the appointment process, stating that regional chairs should always be chosen by their communities and local elected officials.
“A great strength of Ontario’s municipal system over the past two hundred years has been the absence of partisanship or patronage, through its foundation in independent local democracy,” said Lehman. “There is no Conservative or Liberal way to snowplow a road, build a home, or treat drinking water.”
“Heads of Council should always be selected by their communities and their local elected representatives.”
On Nov. 10, Rob Flack, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, appointed outgoing Parry Sound—Muskoka MP Scott Aitchison as the new District Chair.
The decision comes after Bill 100 was passed, with the province rejecting local leaders’ request to exempt Muskoka from the legislation.
The legislation allows the province to appoint heads of council in fast-growing regions and grant them “strong chair” powers to accelerate decision-making, reduce costs for municipal taxpayers and better align regional decisions with shared provincial and regional priorities.
In the same statement, Lehman shared his disappointment over not retaining his position as District Chair and not being able to continue serving Muskoka in the role.
“Since 2022, the District has delivered a 3x increase in the amount of affordable housing built in Muskoka, faster paramedics, more child care, less garbage, and better roads – all while delivering the second-lowest tax increase of the regional municipalities in Ontario,” he said.
Lehman also mentioned the fact that the District has been a leader in addressing challenges related to affordability, housing, climate change and economic prosperity.
“While I disagree deeply with the government’s actions, I wish the elected Council and staff nothing but success in the years ahead. It has been my great honour to serve as Chair,” he said.
When contacted by MyMuskokaNow.com about his statement, Lehman declined to comment further.
