Ontario’s Bill 60 sparks fear of privatization, job losses, and higher bills as it empowers the province to take control of water systems.

Union leaders in Niagara warn Ontario’s Bill 60, which allows the creation of public corporations to manage water and wastewater systems, could enable privatization despite government assurances. The legislation, fast-tracked by Premier Doug Ford’s government, grants the province authority to compel municipalities to transfer infrastructure, raising concerns over rising water bills, reduced accountability, and job insecurity. Critics, including CUPE leaders and the NDP, argue the bill prioritizes corporate profit over public safety and that some Niagara mayors are using water services as bargaining chips in amalgamation talks, undermining public control and resident trust.