NEW TECUMSETH, ON – The newly formed Auto Mayors Association of Simcoe County held its inaugural meeting, bringing together municipal leaders, economic development experts, and industry partners to advocate for the region’s auto sector.
Hosted by New Tecumseth Mayor Richard Norcross, the gathering featured discussions on challenges and opportunities facing the industry, with a focus on workforce stability, investment, and policy advocacy.
Municipal Mayors in attendance include: Bradford West Gwillimbury Mayor James Leduc, Collingwood Mayor Yvonne Hamlin, Clearview Mayor Doug Measures, Penetanguishene Mayor Doug Rawson, Innisfil Mayor Lynn Dollin, Ramara Mayor Basil Clarke, and Midland Mayor Bill Gordon. Their collective presence and active engagement in discussions surrounding key issues in the auto industry underscore a shared commitment to regional collaboration. Together, these leaders are working to address the complex challenges posed by U.S. tariffs, driving forward solutions that support economic resilience and growth across Simcoe County.
“This industry is not just an economic engine — it’s a source of skilled employment, innovation, and long-term prosperity for our communities,” said Mayor Norcross. “As the landscape shifts, we must come together to ensure the auto sector in Simcoe remains competitive and future ready.”
The Auto Mayors Association of Simcoe County distinguishes itself from the Ontario Auto Mayors group by focusing specifically on regional concerns. Participants underscored the need for a coordinated, local response to issues such as supply chain uncertainty, tariffs, and the transition to electric vehicles (EV). During the meeting, representatives from Honda Canada Manufacturing, the Trillium Network for Advanced Manufacturing, and MPP Brian Saunderson shared updates and insights on industry trends as well as Provincial auto industry progress, helping to shape a collective approach to policy advocacy and strategic planning.
Key themes from the discussion included:
- The impact of auto tariffs on investment and hiring across Simcoe County and commitments to retainment
- Implications of zero emission vehicle penalties in the auto sector
- Trends in the EV market
- Foreign investment in the auto sector
- The need for flexible, phased approaches to EV and clean technology adoption
- Provincial targets for green house emissions reductions and current status
- Municipal initiatives supporting local businesses, such as the Business Leadership Council and procurement policy reviews
The group committed to meeting semi-annually, with the option for more frequent discussions as needed. Future advocacy efforts will focus on engaging provincial and federal decision-makers to ensure that Simcoe’s auto sector remains a priority in policy and investment strategies.
“This is just the beginning,” said Mayor Norcross. “With the expertise and dedication of our municipalities and industry partners, we are confident the future of auto manufacturing in Simcoe County will remain strong and competitive.”
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