It took years and now advocates of a semi-autonomous Hamilton Board of Health have (almost) achieve their goal.
On June 3, the Legislative Assembly of Ontario passed Bill 11, which amends the City of Hamilton Act to permit the establishment of a semi-autonomous Board of Health to oversee the city’s public health services.
Previously, the Board of Health was comprised solely of the 16 elected members of Council. Under the new structure, the Board will include of six citizen members, one representative from the education sector, and six council members. The composition and appointees are determined by City Council.
Reform Seriously got Underway in 2021
Council voted to begin the process to create the semi-autonomous board in March 2021.
At the time, eight delegates appeared before council, emphasizing the need for medical experts and community voices—especially from underrepresented communities—to have a seat at the table.
It took three and a half years, and a new council term, for the City to create a Public Health Sub-Committee. It held its first meeting on December 2, 2024.
With the passage of Bill 11, the members of that sub-committee will now transition into the newly established Board of Health.
Next week’s sub-committee meeting has been cancelled to allow time for the administrative transition.
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Published: June 4, 2025
Last updated: June 4, 2025
Author: Joey Coleman
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