Overview

Under the Better Regional Governance Act, 2026, the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing may appoint upper-tier council chairs in the following eight fast-growing regions:

  • The Regional Municipality of Durham
  • The Regional Municipality of Halton
  • The District of Muskoka
  • The Regional Municipality of Niagara
  • The Regional Municipality of Peel
  • The County of Simcoe
  • The Regional Municipality of York
  • The Regional Municipality of Waterloo

Role of Head of Council

As set out in sections 225 and 226.1 of the Municipal Act, the role of the Head of Council is to:

  • act as chief executive officer of the municipality
    • uphold and promote the purposes of the municipality
    • promote public involvement in the municipality’s activities
    • act as the representative of the municipality both within and outside the municipality and promote it locally, nationally, and internationally
    • participate in and foster activities that enhance the economic, social, and environmental well-being of the municipality and its residents
  • preside over council meetings so that its business can be carried out efficiently and effectively
  • provide leadership to the council
  • provide information and recommendations to the council with respect to administrative, controllership, accountability, and transparency policies, practices and procedures
  • represent the municipality at official functions
  • carry out the duties of the head of council under the Municipal Act, 2001 or any other Act

Process to appoint Head of Council

Qualified and eligible individuals may apply through the Public Appointments Secretariat website where you can also learn about:

  • the duties of Head of Council
  • qualifications and eligibility
  • terms of the position
  • how to apply

Applications will close on July 13, 2026.

Apply to be considered for the Head of Council position within your local region: