Bill 100: Better Regional Governance Act, 2026

This bill primarily affects municipal governments, elected officials, and political candidates in Ontario's regional municipalities (Durham, Halton, Muskoka, Niagara, Peel, Simcoe, Waterloo, and York). Businesses operating in these regions — including developers, contractors, service providers, and anyone who deals with regional council for planning approvals, permits, zoning, or procurement — may experience changes in decision-making speed and priorities as council sizes shrink and leadership selection shifts to appointment rather than direct election. Small and large businesses alike that regularly engage with regional government on land use, infrastructure, or service delivery matters could see shifts in how local priorities are set. The changes are most immediately felt in the Niagara Region, where council composition is significantly restructured and certain lower-tier municipalities (Thorold, Port Colborne, Niagara-on-the-Lake) may also see ward and council changes.