US Tariffs Update — March 25

Municipalities have a role to play in the ongoing tariff war started by the United States. I recently wrote about that in the Hamilton Spectator HERE. We at the City of Burlington have stepped up to do our part.

Last month,  I came together with Councillor Galbraith, Deputy Mayor for Business and Red Tape, and Councillor Sharman, Deputy Mayor for Budget, to form the Mayor’s Tariff Task Force. 

The purpose of the Mayor's Tariff Task Force is to learn from our business community and stakeholders on how the current economic landscape and tariffs are impacting their businesses and identify potential supports or areas for advocacy.

Task Force membership includes city staff, representatives from Burlington Economic Development and Tourism, the Burlington Chamber of Commerce, homebuilding industry associations, our local BIAs, and representatives from a cross-section of businesses industries in Burlington.

We have already had two meetings, with regular meetings scheduled for as long as this situation continues. The Task Force members have shared resources for supporting businesses as well as real time impacts they are facing and what they expect the future to hold.

We also recently shared with members the supports the city is considering, including interest-free deferral of taxes, development charges, and other permits. At our March 18 council meeting, Council unanimously asked staff to report back on these items for a council decision.

I would like to thank my co-chairs and the members of the task force for contributing their time and expertise. The Mayor's Tariff Task Force will play a crucial role in guiding Burlington's businesses through these challenging times, identifying municipal actions, supporting our advocacy to other levels of government, and ensuring that we have the tools and support necessary to adapt and thrive despite the ongoing economic uncertainties.