Face-to-Face on Hamilton's Future

Iron City's new mayor Larry Di Ianni meets with Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty

Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty is considering a proposal brought forward by Hamilton mayor Larry Di Ianni to treat the Iron City much in the same way as the municipalities of the Greater Toronto Area. The Premier himself said so at the end of a meeting with Hamilton's new mayor.
"Clearly, we cannot make any commitment yet," remarked McGuinty, "as the Province's financial situation is very serious, so everything must be carefully pondered. I can tell you that Di Ianni's proposal will be considered, since we recognize the challenges facing Hamilton citizens."
After the meeting, Di Ianni displayed optimism and remarked, "My proposal won't cost a dime to the Provincial Government. On the contrary, they could even obtain noticeable economic benefit from it."
At present, the city of Hamilton gets no financial compensation for the services offered to the municipalities around it. "Just think," continued Di Ianni, "that even Burlington's contribution goes to the GTA, while its residents make use of our city infrastructures."
During the joint press conference, McGuinty repeatedly stated that he understands the needs of local administrations, but as he reminded everybody, "one should never forget the $5.6 billion deficit we inherited from the previous Tory government."
McGuinty strongly promised, "What has changed is our desire to have a dialogue, avoiding the conflicts that characterized the relations between municipalities and the past governments."
Some days ago Di Ianni had met with all MPPs representing Hamilton area ridings, explaining them the situation and asking them to bring the concerns of city residents to the Provincial Government. Last week's meeting between Di Ianni and McGuinty confirmed that the message was delivered and understood by the new government, which has shown its goodwill and cooperation with local administrators.
Unfortunately, goodwill is available but money isn't. This is another message that Premier McGuinty has clearly sent out.
Following his meeting with Di Ianni, McGuinty attended an event organized by LIUNA, the powerful union led by Joseph Mancinelli.

Publication Date: 2003-12-21
Story Location: http://tandemnews.com/viewstory.php?storyid=3490