Markham Stouffville Review, December 2023

DECEMBER 2023
York Region announces new CAO
COMMUNITY 9 MARKHAM STOUFFVILLE REVIEW
BY CONNOR SIMONDS
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
York Regional Council has announced
that Erin Mahoney is its new Chief Administrative
Officer. Her appointment follows the
16-year tenure of Bruce Macgregor as CAO.
Mahoney’s impressive background and
steadfast commitment make her an ideal
choice to lead York Region into a new age of
growth and innovation.
Throughout her distinguished 15-year
career with York Region, Mahoney has been
an invaluable member of the leadership team,
consistently showcasing dedication, vision,
and a profound understanding of the organization’s
mission and values.
“Ms. Mahoney has consistently demonstrated
exceptional dedication, direction, and
a deep understanding of our organization’s
mission and values,” shares Wayne Emmerson,
CEO of York Region. “I am confident she
will help us continue to achieve our strategic
goals and deliver on the exceptional programs
and services our residents and communities
deserve and expect.”
Mahoney’s journey within York Region
began in her role as Commissioner of Public
Works, where she made significant contributions
to the region’s success. Her strong
educational background, with a Bachelor
of Science from Memorial University of
Newfoundland and a Master of Engineering
from the University of Western Ontario,
coupled with her key leadership positions
in the private sector, equips her to lead with
competence and innovation.
Furthermore, Mahoney’s involvement
in various boards and volunteer agencies underscores
her commitment to the community,
aligning perfectly with York Region’s vision
of strong, caring, and safe communities. Her
ability to collaborate, lead with empathy, and
make pivotal decisions with confidence has
naturally positioned her as the guiding force
for the region’s future.
As the CAO, Mahoney undertakes
the crucial responsibility of overseeing the
day-to-day operations of York Region’s 15
core services, the backbone of the community.
With over 5,000 full-time and part-time
employees under her leadership, she will play
a pivotal role in shaping the organization’s
future direction and, by extension, the communities
it serves.
The CAO serves as the linchpin connecting
the council’s vision with the daily lives
of residents, ensuring the delivery of highquality
programs and services. Mahoney’s
appointment signals a strong commitment to
preserving and enhancing the region’s reputation
as a municipal service delivery leader and
a top employer.
“In collaboration with York Regional
Council, I’m deeply committed to leading our
organization to deliver results for the people
and communities we serve, building on our
strengths with innovative ideas and collaborative
teamwork,” shares Mahoney.
Mahoney has outlined the following key
priorities for York Region:
Strategic Growth Support: With a projected
population of over 2 million people and
990,000 jobs by 2051, her commitment is to
ensure that growth benefits communities and
is financially sustainable.
Homelessness and Housing Strategy: Acknowledging
the central role of homes in our
York Region CAO Erin Mahoney.
lives, she prioritizes efforts to make housing
affordable and accessible, allowing communities
to thrive.
Asylum Seeker Support: She emphasizes
that no one should be left behind and is
working with other levels of government to
provide emergency housing and wrap-around
supports for asylum seekers.
Peel Transition and Servicing Agreements:
The region anticipates engagement
with the Peel Transition Panel to ensure
long-term water and wastewater capacity and
discuss shared interests, including Highway
50.
Ontario’s Governance Review: In the
face of potential governance changes considered
by the province, she highlights York
Region’s long-standing history of delivering
leading services as a continued focus.
She underscores the strength of the
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region’s workforce and its commitment to
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the community as key elements in achieving
these priorities.
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When asked about the role York Region
plays in creating strong, caring, and safe communities,
Mahoney emphasizes a commitment
to realizing this vision. She notes that CY
the region’s 15 core programs and services
go beyond providing amenities; they help
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neighbours connect, boost community pride,
and build lasting trust. Her actions and strategies
align with this vision, aiming to ensure
that every resident feels supported and proud
to call York Region home.
Addressing challenges on the horizon,
Mahoney acknowledges the need to adapt
to a growing population with changing
needs, ensure financial sustainability during
uncertain times, stay updated with technological
advancements, and navigate potential
governance changes. She intends to set a clear
path that adapts to changes and looks ahead,
focusing on assessing opportunities, forging
strong partnerships, and exploring smart
ways to fund priorities to ensure York Region
remains strong and vibrant.
“As I step into this role, I’m here to lead
our team and deliver on our commitments
to the people and communities we serve to
make York Region a truly strong, caring and
safe community,” Mahoney adds. “With new
ideas and our shared commitment, we can
shape a thriving and inclusive York Region.
The diversity of voices and experiences of
our residents make our region unique, and
I’m dedicated to ensuring they are heard and
considered in our decisions and directions. I
value their trust and think that together, our
future possibilities here at York Region are
boundless.”
Mahoney’s vision and leadership are set
to usher in a new era of growth, innovation,
and community strength in York Region.
Her commitment to strong, caring, and safe
communities and her collaborative approach
promise a bright future for all residents.
CM
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Help us be prepared for
all of life’s moments.
When an emergency visit to
Markham Stouffville Hospital
revealed a football-sized
tumour in Aryan’s chest, his
life took an unexpected turn.
Hopeful, Aryan put his trust
in the medical team at MSH
and immediately started
chemotherapy treatment
against the aggressive cancer
that threatened his life.
Thankfully, the chemotherapy
did its job and Aryan beat
cancer.
Give today.
mshf.on.ca
Life’s hopeful moments like
these are only possible if our
hospital is properly equipped
and prepared to respond to
situations like Aryan’s.
This holiday season, help
patients like Aryan by
donating in support of
life-saving equipment and
technology.