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Local Government and Urban Affairs

A new and updated Municipal Act, 2001, the legislation that provides for the structure, governance, and general powers of municipalities, came into effect. The ministry provided education and training to municipal officials on the new legislation.

The ministry also met regularly with the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) under the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed in December 2001. The MOU enshrined the principle of prior consultation on legislation and regulations that impact municipal budgets. The ministry also provided speedy assistance to flood-stricken areas in the Rainy River District and Peterborough.

Smart Growth

MMAH worked with five Smart Growth panels, partner ministries, stakeholders, and the public to build consensus on recommendations to promote and manage growth in Ontario.

Planning, Development and Housing

Eighty-one per cent of municipal clients expressed satisfaction with the ministry’s one-window provincial planning service which helps to maintain a simplified and streamlined land-use planning system.

Legislation to streamline the building regulatory system and enhance the knowledge and accountability of building practitioners came into effect. The ministry also signed the Affordable Housing Agreement with the federal government.

Rural Development

During the year, the government transferred responsibility for rural development programs from the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food to MAH.

The Ontario Small Town and Rural (OSTAR) Infrastructure program committed over $40.2 million towards safe drinking water for 65 municipalities. The RED (Rural Economic Development) program committed an additional $60 million in provincial funding to help rural communities overcome barriers to economic development.

Ministry Expenditures

NOTE: Starting in 2002-2003, major tangible capital assets owned by Provincial ministries (land, buildings and transportation infrastructure) are accounted for on a full accrual accounting basis. Other tangible capital assets owned by Provincial ministries will continue to be accounted for as expense in the year of acquisition or construction. All capital assets owned by consolidated government organizations are accounted for on a full accrual basis.

ISBN 1-4249-0539-7