Spring 2022 Red Tape Reduction Package - proposed amendments to the Ministry of Infrastructure Act, 2011 (Fewer Fees, Better Services Act, 2022)
Regulation Number(s):
N/A
Instrument Type:
Act
Bill or Act:
Ministry of Infrastructure Act, 2011
Summary of Proposal:
While real estate is one of the government's greatest resources, we don't always get the greatest possible value from our properties. Taking a government-wide approach in managing government property will help drive leaner processes and greater efficiencies and will allow the government to realize greater value nimbly and efficiently from government real estate, maximizing the value for Ontario taxpayers.
The proposed legislative amendments would require the Minister of Government and Consumer Services to establish a "Centre of Realty Excellence" (CORE) within the Ministry of Government and Consumer Services (MGCS). CORE would create one holistic sight line across the public sector for prudent management of government property and to determine priority underutilized and/or surplus properties aligned with key programs, including affordable housing and long-term care. The proposed legislative amendments would come into effect on a day to be named by proclamation of the Lieutenant Governor.
Once in force, the changes would firmly embed CORE in the Ministry of Infrastructure Act, 2011 and create accountability for ensuring its establishment. This will help the MGCS establish a governance model and a consistent framework/set of best practices across government entities to guide decision-making for which underutilized and surplus lands should be targeted to be unlocked for specific outcomes to be achieved.
Analysis of Regulatory Impact:
The proposed legislative amendments would not add regulatory requirements or additional costs for businesses. Rather, they would create accountability for the Minister to establish a centre of realty excellence that would be responsible for specific functions as outlined in the amendments. The amendments would come into force on a future date in alignment with other activities related to the establishment of the centre of realty excellence.
The proposed legislative amendments would not in themselves create an immediate impact to stakeholders. However, once a model and decision-making framework are developed, date TBD, impacted stakeholders would include all ministries and provincial agencies in Ontario who hold real estate or have an interest in real estate for the purpose of meeting government priorities.
Further Information:
Proposal Number:
22-MGCS004
Posting Date:
February 22, 2022
Comments Due Date:
February 28, 2022
Contact Address:
Ministry of Government and Consumer Services
777 Bay Street, 2nd Floor
Toronto, Ontario M5G 2E5