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The "A" Word: Unnecessary or Unavoidable?

​Is amalgamation the future of governance in Waterloo Region?
View Videos and Reports


​This segment of our virtual series took place March 16, 2023 online via zoom.

Municipal amalgamation refers to the consolidation of multiple municipal governments into a single unit. This process involves the merging of local government structures, including councils, staff, and departments, into a single entity. 

While many support this fusion of governance and feel this can result in a more streamlined and efficient government, it remains a controversial issue. Others identify the many possible negative impacts to the local communities, such as a loss of control and communal identity.
​

This meeting included featured guest speakers, presenting both facts and perspectives on amalgamation and the changes it may mean for Waterloo Region's municipal governance, followed by opportunity for questions and participant input.
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​Guest Speakers



Zachary Spicer, Associate Professor, School of Public Policy and Administration, York University

Phil Marfisi, Governance Coordinator at Wilfrid Laurier University, Fan of Community Engagement

Debbie Chapman, Faculty Member Wilfrid Laurier University and Kitchener City Councillor, Ward 9

Doug Craig, Region of Waterloo Councillor and Former Mayor of Cambridge 

Jim Erb, Region of Waterloo Councillor and Former Councillor for the City of Waterloo 
about the speakers


​​Related Publications


(2023) ‘I believe in municipal reform now more than ever,’ says regional Coun. Jim Erb, pushing for one city in Waterloo Region 
- The Record News

(2023) 6 Regional councilors announce support for amalgamation of Waterloo Region
- Global News

(2023) Breaking up Waterloo Region would be a mistake
- Opinion - The Record News


(2023) Six Region of Waterloo councillors announce support for amalgamation 
- CTV News


(2023) Regional councillors make amalgamation pitch ahead of talks with province
​- Cambridge Today

(2023) Waterloo Region hasn't fallen behind anybody
- Opinion - The Record News


(2023) The 'A' Word: Unnecessary or Unavoidable? (1:45:46)
The Mike Farwell Show


(2023) Remaining vigilant as talk of amalgamation persists​
Woolwich Observer

(2023) Town halls brace for amalgamation talks led by province
​Cambridge Today

(2023) Is amalgamation unnecessary or unavoidable?: town hall
City News Kitchener

(2023) Amalgamating Waterloo region discussed at town hall
CTV News Kitchener
(2023) "We're tripping over each other with elected politicians" councillor says at amalgamation townhall
- ​
The Record News

​Municipal restructuring - Ontario.ca 

Bill 39, Better Municipal Governance Act, 2022​
Legislative Assembly of Ontario
​
(2023) Why some community leaders want to spur conversations about amalgamation in Waterloo region
CBC News


(2023) Merger advocates rally behind the scenes, eager to press for one city in Waterloo Region
The Record News

(2023) Reflecting on amalgamation of Cambridge and what it could tell us about future of Waterloo region
CBC News Kitchener

(2023) 
​Editorial: 25 years after amalgamation
​
Morrisburg Leader

​(2023) Missisauga does not want to join Brampton in "City of Peel"; pushes for "Mexit" out of regional government 
​The Pointer
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(2022) Celebrating two local birthdays and calling for more change
The Record News

​(2022) Ontario to assess municipal governments in Waterloo Region
​
Global News

(2022) We asked for your top municipal election issues. Here's what you told us.
​
CBC News Kitchener
 (2022)

(2022) Public opinion on Waterloo Region government is as messy as the process to reform it, two surveys show
​
The Record News


(2022) Municipal review remains something of a mystery to officials
Observer Extra

(2022) 'Jury's out' on a regional revamp: Seiling 
City News Kitchener
​
(2021) Merge Kitchener and Waterloo, 292 people tell the province in survey
The Record News
​
(2021) Why does the Ontario government want to hide its municipal efficiency report?
The Record News 

(2019) Here's what to expect if Waterloo Region becomes one big city
The Record News


(2018) Should Waterloo Region be one big city?
The Record News
 
​(2017) Renaming duplicate streets drags on 16 years after Ottawas amalgamation
Ottawa Citizen
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​2024:
  • Searching for a Drug Strategy: Seeking a response to substance-related harms and the overdose crisis
  • ​No Fixed Address: A Talk About Homelessness & Encampments​
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      • The Drug Poisoning Crisis in Waterloo Region >
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      • The "A" Word: Unnecessary or Unavoidable? >
        • Guest Speakers - The "A" Word: Unnecessary or Unavoidable?
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            • Event Summary - Amalgamation
      • Low Voter Turnout: Strengthening Participation In Local Democracy >
        • Guest Speakers - Low Voter Turnout: Strengthening Participation In Local Democracy
        • Event Video Footage and Reports - Low Voter Turnout: Strengthening Participation In Local Democracy >
          • Event Summary - Low Voter Turnout: Strengthening Participation In Local Democracy
          • Event Report: Low Voter Turnout: Strengthening Participation In Local Democracy
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