The information on the website was created for the 2021 Massey Cities Summit, a global conference on the constitutional status of cities. While the information is not current and will not be updated, we wanted you to have access to the archive of blog posts, podcasts, articles, videos, and other information.

Making the case for constitutional power for Canadian cities

When we think of Canadian cities, we might picture the places where we live, work, and gather—a straightforward concept at first glance. But from a constitutional standpoint, cities in Canada occupy a challenging position, often compared to the “middle child” in the family.

Constitutional Space for Cities

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Darren Chow 2021-02-01 Darren Chow 2021-02-01

City,State: Constitutionalism and the Megacity

Cities have remained virtually absent from constitutional law and constitutional thought, not to mention from comparative constitutional studies more generally. As the world is urbanizing at an extraordinary rate, Ran Hirschl discovers new thinking about constitutionalism and desperate need for urbanization.

Darren Chow 2021-01-29 Darren Chow 2021-01-29

Now, with a deal made to help cities, the work begins

The $19-billion agreement between Ottawa and the provinces announced on July 16 delivered what municipalities and experts have long been calling for: support for municipalities to cover deficits resulting from the pandemic, and specific funds for transit systems that have been devastated by drops in ridership. But is this enough to sustain municipalities for the long haul? Will they be prepared for the next crisis?

Darren Chow 2021-01-27 Darren Chow 2021-01-27

Municipal immigration policymaking in Canadian cities: the state of the art

How does migration induced diversity change cities and local policies? This collection of 30 papers covering many cities in Europe and beyond helps us to better understand issues that municipalities face around the world. Kristin R. Good takes a close look at municipal immigration in Canadian cities.

Darren Chow 2021-01-22 Darren Chow 2021-01-22

More Tax Sources for Canada’s Largest Cities: Why, What, and How?

Are additional taxes appropriate for major cities? What are some of the advantages and disadvantages of potential new taxes. What is the estimated revenue from a city income tax, a city sales tax, and a city fuel tax for eight Canadian cities.

Thank you to all attendees, panellists, and moderators for helping to make this conference a success.

CONFERENCE RECAP

City in Sight Podcast Series: Episode 3

Indigenous Cities

The Indigenous population in urban areas is growing fast. What are cities doing to provide for these populations, to build cities that reflect these communities, and to address the calls to action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission? Would greater autonomy for cities help achieve these goals? To find out, we speak to three Canadian mayors.