In 2022, Ontario granted expanded 'strong mayor' powers to mayors in Toronto and Ottawa, later extended to other municipalities. These powers include authority to propose budgets, veto certain council decisions (subject to two-thirds override), and appoint the chief administrative officer and some committee chairs. Proponents argue strong mayors can advance provincial priorities like housing construction more effectively than traditional council systems. Critics express concerns about undermining local democracy and council authority. Strong mayor powers represent significant changes to traditional Ontario municipal governance where mayors held one vote among council members. Implementation and impacts continue to evolve as municipalities adapt to new authority structures.