Statements

Strong regional partnerships matter now more than ever.

Today, leaders from London, Middlesex County, Strathroy-Caradoc, St. Thomas and Southwold met at London City Hall to discuss the growing economic challenges facing our region, and reaffirm our shared commitment to working together on solutions.

Trade uncertainty continues to impact the Canadian economy, and these impacts are being felt acutely across Southwestern Ontario. Recent data from Statistics Canada shows that several Census Metropolitan Areas in our region are now among those with the highest unemployment rates in the country. These concerning numbers reinforce the importance of coordinated, immediate action to protect workers and families, support employers, and ensure we remain a top destination for growth and opportunity.

“Investment in institutions, such as Western University, are key to driving our regional economy in a positive direction. Western is one of our biggest employers, and they’re creating even more jobs through capital projects. When we sit and reflect on the numbers, we can’t lose sight of the potential and opportunity in front of us.”

– Warden Susan Clarke, Middlesex County

First, we want to acknowledge and appreciate the critical work undertaken by both the Government of Ontario and the Government of Canada to address tariff impacts and prepare for upcoming CUSMA negotiations. However, we must take immediate steps to support our communities.
In a challenging job market, infrastructure investment plays a vital role in sustaining local employment while building the foundation for long-term growth. As municipal leaders, we are committed to maintaining the flow of local infrastructure spending to support construction jobs and generate positive economic spin-offs across our communities. We stand steadfast in our commitment to moving forward on projects that are necessary to meet the needs of our growing communities, unhindered by global realities.

U.S. tariffs are driving up municipal construction costs, now exacerbated by rising gas prices. Municipalities cannot use existing federal and provincial infrastructure funding to cover these cost escalations; however, we are committed to keeping these in-flight projects on track, protecting local jobs.

“I greatly appreciate that we are taking time to coordinate our strategy and advocacy efforts. A collective approach to regional representation is key, not only to the future of Southwestern Ontario, but our ability to engage multiple levels of government. Steps like this are vital to addressing the concerns of our residents across the region.”

– Mayor Colin Grantham, Municipality of Strathroy-Caradoc

Second, we recognize that the scale of today’s challenges requires a regional approach and collective advocacy. We are committing to closer collaboration to better understand the impacts of trade uncertainty across our region, and more strategic consideration of infrastructure, transportation, and economic development investments that have the potential to deliver shared benefits.

Our region continues to attract significant global investment - from PowerCo, to Andriani, to Vianode - because of our highly skilled workforce, exceptional quality of life, access to dual-source fresh water, reliable energy, and integrated transportation networks. We will continue working together to promote these advantages, attract new partners, support expansion, and ensure the world understands the strength of our regional economy.
This collaborative approach is already delivering results. Our recent partnership helped secure Ontario Transit Investment Fund (OTIF) support to sustain and expand the Middlesex County Connect regional bus service - an important step in enabling residents to live in one community and work in another, strengthening our regional labour market.

“Infrastructure projects are not only important to meet the modern needs of growing communities, they keep people working. That said, it is difficult for a township to carry a debt load for necessary services without the combined voice of our regional partners. This sort of collaboration is meaningful and sends a message that we are not alone. I look forward to continued discussions on how we can protect jobs and deliver for families.”

– Mayor Grant Jones, Township of Southwold

Third, we jointly call on the provincial and federal governments to continue strengthening their partnership with municipalities by accelerating infrastructure funding programs so that projects can move forward as soon as possible. Getting shovels in the ground quickly is essential to supporting jobs and maintaining economic momentum.

We are already seeing the tangible benefits of these investments. In Central Elgin, Ontario’s Housing-Enabling Water Systems (HEWS) funding has enabled four construction crews - employing approximately 40 workers - to advance critical water infrastructure projects that will unlock new housing opportunities. In London, Federal Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Funding (DMAF) is allowing for infrastructure upgrades that will build the city’s resilience against natural disasters while currently employing 30-40 construction-related workers, in addition to 15-20 planning and design consultants over the last 3 years.

“We’ve had great success internationally attracting investment to our region. By working together, we can strengthen Southwestern Ontario’s economy and build our region’s resilience in the face of trade uncertainty. It will require strong advocacy and strategic thinking, but that path is easier when we walk it together.”

– Mayor Joe Preston, City of St. Thomas

In addition to advancing projects already underway, our municipalities have a strong pipeline of shovel-ready, trade-enabling infrastructure projects that could be accelerated to boost construction activity, stimulate Ontario’s economy, and create jobs in the near term.
We look forward to fostering this partnership with both the Province of Ontario and the Government of Canada to advance strategic investments in our region and better align projects for greater impact. While unemployment rates present a real and immediate challenge, our region has also experienced a net gain of over 30,000 jobs in recent years. With coordinated planning and a collective voice, we can fully leverage the strategic assets that make our region competitive.

“Today’s discussion underscored the strength of a united regional approach. This is not the time to sit back and wait. Together we are taking deliberate steps to protect workers, support families, and attract the kinds of investments that strengthen our communities and keep them working. This collaboration will build meaningful change, helping us meet today’s challenges and position our region for opportunities ahead.”

– Mayor Josh Morgan, City of London

Together, we remain focused on supporting our workers, strengthening our economy, and building a resilient future for Southwestern Ontario.

Signed,

Mayor Josh Morgan, City of London
Warden Susan Clarke, Middlesex County
Mayor Colin Grantham, Municipality of Strathroy-Caradoc
Mayor Joe Preston, City of St. Thomas
Mayor Grant Jones, Township of Southwold

Many of you will have seen the news regarding the concentrated spike in overdoses in London this week.

While officials investigate to find those responsible and confirm the nature of the substance, I want to recognize and thank our emergency services, social agencies and others who reacted swiftly to identify the threat to Londoners' health, disseminate information, and work to limit the impact of this terrible incident. Their efforts ensured those in need of urgent medical care and attention received it in a timely manner, saving dozens of lives.

As we continue to support those affected, I want to be clear that this incident demonstrates the devastating impacts of toxic drugs on our streets, and reinforces the importance of a coordinated approach across public services. These are risks faced every day by people living with substance use challenges and those who work with them. Real progress depends on expanding access to treatment and recovery. The Province has invested significantly with the creation of the HART Hub system, however more treatment and recovery beds are needed. Without enough places for people to heal, recover and rebuild their lives, the cycle will continue.

This incident also underscores why the ongoing work of emergency services to meet these challenges, such as London Police Service's Open Air Drug Strategy and Nurse-Police Response Teams, is so essential. They meet people where they're at, reduce the presence of toxic and unregulated substances on our streets, and provide on-the-spot care and medical support in moments of crisis. By connecting individuals directly to trained professionals and health supports, they stabilize people during dangerous episodes and alleviate pressure on emergency services, allowing us to reach more Londoners when needs arise. I cannot thank our front line outreach workers and emergency service professionals enough, not only for their work this week but every single day.

As we move forward, our focus remains clear: keeping Londoners safe, removing drugs from our streets, and ensuring that those who need help can access it quickly, without barriers.

– Mayor Josh Morgan

I was heartbroken to learn of the devastating and horrific shootings in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia. Londoners' hearts are grieving today alongside the victims, families, friends and community who have lost loved ones and had their lives changed forever by this unimaginable tragedy.

On behalf of the City of London, we stand in solidarity, support and compassion with Tumbler Ridge. Flags will be flown at half-mast until sunset on January I7, 2026 in honour of those impacted.

– Mayor Josh Morgan

As this is the closest meeting of Council before January 29, I want to take a moment to acknowledge The National Day of Remembrance of the Quebec City Mosque Attack and Action Against Islamophobia. January 29th is a solemn day for our country.

Nine years ago, six people were killed and nineteen others injured when an individual entered the Québec City Mosque and carried out a horrific act driven by hate and Islamophobia. The victims and survivors were targeted solely because they were Muslim.

Here in London, we know all too well the devastating impact of Islamophobia. Our own community continues to confront the fear, trauma, and lasting harm that hate-fuelled violence inflicts, most notably every June 6th, when we honour the memory of Our London Family and, as a city, recommit to our mission to fight Islamophobia here in London.

Many Muslim Londoners still do not feel fully safe practicing their faith. That is unacceptable.

That is why January 29 is not only a day of remembrance, but a day of action. Across Canada, Ontario, and right here in London, we mark this occasion by dedicating ourselves to standing firmly against hate in all its forms.

Today, you’ll see I’m wearing a Green Square. The Green Square Campaign honours the victims and survivors of the attack, symbolizing the mosque’s carpets where they last stood to pray. In London, we wear the Green Square in solidarity with our Muslim neighbours, with the community in Québec City, and with Muslim communities across the world.

Hate incidents targeting Muslims have risen in recent years. I want to be unequivocal on this: faith can never be used as a justification for violence, discrimination, or the denial of human rights. As Mayor, I have been amazed by the way our faith communities unite together in the face of violence and hate. These are the values that represent what London is, and they must guide us toward a safer tomorrow.

Today, we remember and honour those whose lives were taken nine years ago:

• Ibrahima Barry
• Mamadou Tanou Barry
• Khaled Belkacemi
• Aboubaker Thabti
• Abdelkrim Hassane
• Azzedine Soufiane

May their memories strengthen our commitment to building a truly inclusive London for all.

– Mayor Josh Morgan

I want to commend Prime Minister Mark Carney and the Government of Canada for planning decisive action on bail reform with today’s announcement of new legislation aimed at keeping violent and repeat offenders off our streets. This includes the implementation of a “reverse-onus” bail for major crimes, ensuring that an accused must demonstrate to the court why they can be trusted to be released.

As Chair of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ Big City Mayors Caucus, I have advocated for this reform alongside colleagues from across the country. Many of us have seen the impacts of violence perpetrated by those on bail on our communities—violence that was preventable had these offenders remained off our streets as they awaited trial.

Over the past year, there have been far too many instances where individuals charged with serious, violent crimes were released on bail only to reoffend. These situations have shaken public confidence and put the safety of our residents, neighbourhoods, and police officers at risk. The balance on bail reform must return to protecting our communities first and foremost.

Earlier this year, London Police executed the largest fentanyl bust in our city’s history. This major operation uncovered guns, drugs, vehicles, and a vast criminal network fueling addiction and violence in our community. Yet, despite the gravity of the charges, several of those arrested were later granted bail.
Municipalities like ours have made record investments in police services to strengthen public safety and give our officers the tools they need. But without the right federal and provincial frameworks in place, their efforts can only go so far. It is unacceptable for violent and repeat offenders to return to our streets before their cases have even gone to trial.

London welcomes these proposed reforms as a critical and positive step toward restoring accountability, strengthening community safety, and ensuring our justice system better protects law-abiding citizens. We look forward to seeing this legislation move quickly and to working with all levels of government to make our city, and every community across Canada, safer for everyone.

– Mayor Josh Morgan

Dear Londoners,

I want to take this opportunity to address an incident you may have seen in the news that occurred in the north of our city this past week, where hateful and bigoted graffiti inciting violence against women appeared on an overpass. Let me be absolutely clear: there is no place in London for hatred, intolerance, or attempts to intimidate and marginalize members of our community. This graffiti does not reflect who we are as a city. London is, and must always be, a place that welcomes and respects people of all genders, backgrounds, and identities, and it's our duty to foster that and grow together.

At the City of London, we have taken important steps in this direction. Through our pillar "Safe London for Women, Girls, Gender-Diverse and Trans People" in the Strategic Plan, and through my declaration of intimate partner violence as an epidemic, we have committed to making London a safer and more equitable city. But we also recognize that this is ongoing work that must continue, persevere, and be supported by each and every one of us who believes in a better, safer London for all. The path to equality and safety is long, and progress demands persistence, focus, and endurance.

I will continue to work with organizations and partners across our community to ensure that we are not only moving forward, but also resisting any attempts to move backward.

To the survivors and victims of violence: know that this city stands with you. To those who seek to spread hate or division: know that you will not succeed. The community we have built in London is and always will be stronger than hate. Together we will continue building a city that protects, respects, and uplifts every single person.

Sincerely,
– Mayor Josh Morgan