Cobourg Mayor Lucas Cleveland says he has delegated the strong mayor powers available to him ahead of the municipal election, saying the decision was made to ensure what he considers a fairer election.
Cleveland says he made the decision the day after submitting his nomination papers.
He says the provincial powers available to a sitting mayor could create an uneven playing field while he campaigns against two other candidates who do not hold the same authority.
Cleveland says delegating the powers back to council or the chief administrative officer creates what he considers a more equitable election cycle.
The decision comes as Cleveland seeks another term as Cobourg mayor.
Cleveland says there are operational and procedural reasons for the delegation as well, but says the primary motivation behind his decision was fairness during the campaign.
He says the strong mayor powers will be delegated to either council or the CAO.
