WHEREAS the Town of Oakville values the benefit to Oakville business and jobs from strong economic and trade relationship between Canada and the United States, including the mutual benefits derived from a fair and open exchange of goods and services;
WHEREAS Oakville businesses are integral to the economic prosperity and vibrancy of our community, creating jobs and supporting local families;
WHEREAS the proposed 25% tariffs on all goods by the United States could disproportionately harm Canadian, Ontario and Oakville businesses, leading to increased costs, reduced competitiveness, and potential job losses;
WHEREAS tariffs of this nature undermine the principles of free and fair trade and create uncertainty for local businesses that rely on cross-border trade;
WHEREAS collaboration with and advocacy at all levels of government are essential to protecting our local economy and supporting our businesses and jobs;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Town of Oakville affirms its strong support for the work of the governments of Ontario and Canada to counter the proposed tariffs on Oakville goods and services by the United States;
THAT the Town of Oakville expresses its solidarity with Oakville businesses that would be adversely impacted by these tariffs and commits to supporting them through advocacy;
THAT the Town of Oakville formally supports the Government of Canada and the Province of Ontario opposition to these tariffs and to protect Canadian businesses, including engaging in diplomacy, trade negotiations, and other appropriate measures;
THAT a copy of this resolution be sent to the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO), the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM), The Great Lakes St. Lawrence Cities Initiative and all local Members of Provincial Parliament (MPPs) and Members of Parliament (MPs) for their information and support; and
THAT the Mayor and Town Staff be directed to communicate this resolution to Oakville businesses and to continue to monitor and inform Council on any developments related to these proposed tariffs.