As the Ontario government plans to fully implement the storng mayor system in Toronto, the majority of the city's councillors voted to request its official repeal. 

Bill 39, the Better Municipal Governance Act, would allow Toronto Mayor John Tory the ability to pass bills with only one third of the council support, as well as have veto powers in certain votes. 

The motion reads that the city council request  that the current mayor of Toronto, and all future mayors, to not exercise any power that "allows for motions to be passed with less than 50% plus one majority of council members present." 

In the motion's vote, 14 voted "yes" and 11 "no." Coun. Jon Burnside was not present at the meeting. 

Voters of "no" include Tory and Ward 13 Toronto Centre Coun. Chris Moise.

Prior the motion, Coun. Matlow and Tory were engaged in a heated discussion when Tory presented a motion regarding the upcoming budget. 

Matlow asked Tory about the strong mayor powers during a motion on the province helping the city during a "COVID budget short fall. Matlow asked about Bill 109 and Bill 23, which pertain to the city’s plans for building more affordable housing units in 2023.  Further, Matlow asked about why Tory is allowing the "province off the hook" on discussions. 

Matlow continues to openly critical of Tory during meetings and on social media regarding the strong mayor system. 

Tory has mentioned in other council meetings that he intends to use the new powers to end political gridlock, especially when it comes to one of the most pressing issues according to the mayor: affordable housing.

More details to come. 

Listen to CJRU's coverage of the Dec.15 city council meeting: