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NEWS RELEASE
AUTO MAYORS
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The Ontario Auto Mayors’ caucus held its first meeting outside the GTA on Nov. 1, 2024, at Stratford’s Tom Patterson Theatre, with 45 municipal representatives and industry leaders in attendance.
“It was a privilege for Stratford to host this meeting, especially as the first city outside the GTA to do so,” said Mayor Martin Ritsma. “With record-breaking attendance, this gathering underscores Stratford’s commitment to supporting the automotive industry and fostering partnerships that drive innovation across Ontario.”
Chaired by Oakville Mayor Rob Burton, the meeting featured keynotes from Ford Canada CEO Bev Goodman and PowerCo CFO Brent Hinson. Goodman discussed the state of Canada’s auto industry and the potential impacts of the upcoming United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) review. Hinson highlighted Volkswagen’s $7 billion investment in St. Thomas and Ontario’s advantages in green technology and EV supply chains.
MPP Matthew Rae (Perth-Wellington) and MPP Brian Saunderson (Simcoe-Grey) addressed the group, emphasizing the provincial government’s commitment to economic growth. The 2023 Action Plan working groups provided updates on EV adoption strategies and supply chain resiliency.
The next meeting will be hosted by Guelph Mayor Cam Guthrie in 2025.
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