Lake of Bays changes its procurement policy in favour of Ontario and Canadian goods and services

The municipality will prioritize Ontario made products

Lake of Bays Council adopted changes to its procurement policy during its June 2, 2026.

Staff reported that the changes are to align with new provincial Buy Ontario legislation and procurement requirements.

The amendment updates reflect the Ontario government's Buy Ontario Act (Public Sector Procurement), 2025, which was introduced in late 2025 to encourage the use of Ontario and Canadian goods and services across the public sector.

The directive requires municipalities to prioritize Ontario and Canadian-made goods and services when conducting procurements.

According to a staff report from Director of Finance/Treasurer Patricia Allen, the legislation is intended to strengthen local supply chains, support Ontario workers and businesses, and reduce exposure to global economic and trade uncertainty.

The new directive took effect on April 13, 2026, and applies to several procurement categories, including requirements related to a general section, municipal fleet vehicles, and infrastructure.

Effective April 13, municipalities must purchase or lease new light-duty passenger vehicles that are manufactured in Ontario or supplied by original equipment manufacturers operating in Ontario.

Provisions related to strategic capital infrastructure took effect May 15. These requirements are intended to maximize the use of Ontario-made and Canadian-made goods and services while maintaining value for money and supporting the timely delivery of infrastructure projects. The provisions apply to areas including construction, fixtures, furniture, equipment and transit fleet vehicles.

Staff noted that some exclusions are available under the Municipal Buy Ontario Procurement Directive and are outlined within the Township’s directive document.

They Staff also reported there are no direct financial implications associated with the policy update.

Councillor, Nancy Tapley, inquired about whether the policy applies to buying locally rather than only provincially.

Staff advised, “It will be a matrix of Ontario, Canada, local, pricing, availability, so, there would be a number of opportunities to weigh on.”

Councillor, Robert Lacroix, expressed appreciation about the change, however, inquired about whether the government would help with finances in situations with heavier costs between buying local and elsewhere.

Staff said, “No.”