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In response to the imposed U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods, the City of St. Catharines is taking decisive action to protect local businesses and ensure economic resilience.
At its meeting on March 17, City Council approved a temporary “Canada-First” procurement policy, prioritizing Canadian-made goods and services in municipal purchasing. The policy is part of a broader strategy to mitigate the economic impact of tariffs on local businesses and infrastructure projects.
Since the announcement of tariffs in early February, the City’s Senior Leadership Team has been actively reviewing mitigation strategies to ensure St. Catharines remains well-prepared for any potential disruptions. This work has included monitoring economic impacts, identifying affected projects, collaborating with key partners, and advocating for municipal support at the provincial and federal levels.
“These tariffs present a significant challenge, particularly for industries that rely on U.S.-sourced materials,” said Chief Administrative Officer David Oakes. “By adopting a ‘Canada-First’ procurement approach, we are not only supporting local businesses but also ensuring that key municipal projects remain viable in the face of rising costs.”
The new procurement policy will remain in effect until trade conditions improve. It aims to strengthen local supply chains, create jobs, and reduce reliance on imported materials. The City will also continue to engage with key partners, including Team Niagara, the Association of Municipalities of Ontario, and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, to advocate for policy solutions and financial support.
Beyond procurement, the City is implementing a series of initiatives to support businesses navigating tariff-related challenges. This includes facilitating connections between local suppliers and buyers, offering business continuity resources, and participating in regional economic development efforts to attract investment.
“Our priority is to keep St. Catharines an attractive place for businesses to invest and grow,” said Director of Economic Development and Government Relations Brian York. “By taking proactive measures now, we can help businesses adapt and maintain confidence in our local economy.”
Staff will continue to monitor the economic impacts of tariffs and provide regular updates to Council.
For more information and updates on the City’s economic development initiatives, visitstcatharines.ca/Tariffs.
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