TORONTO – A special meeting at City Hall on Tuesday to decide the future of Gary Webster’s employment voted in favour of terminating the TTC general manager.
The motion to terminate the 30-year TTC veteran passed with a vote of 5-4, suggesting that “Gary Webster….be provided with immediate written notice of termination of his employment.”
The commission utilized a clause in the Webster’s contract that allowed him to be terminated “without just cause.” According to Karen Stintz, the details of his severance will be kept private.
The commission has asked current TTC Chief Operating Officer Andy Byford to assume the responsibilities of Chief General Manager until a replacement for Webster can be found.
Councillor Frank Di Giorgio argued the decision to fire Webster was justified because of his disagreement with mayor Rob Ford over the Transit City plan. Webster spoke in front of city council supporting expansion of Light Rail Transit (LRT) in Toronto, and drew criticism for not supporting the Sheppard Subway expansion championed by the Mayor.
“In a bureaucracy, excellence is defined by… the ability to put forward positions that are consistent with the position adopted by the mayor,” Di Giorgio said.
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Councillor Mike Layton criticized the decision on Twitter, arguing that it would hinder the ability of bureaucrats to speak openly to city council.
In a speech supporting TTC GM Gary Webster, Councillor Augimeri urged councillors to “look into their hearts,” and vote against the measure to terminate Webster.
Councillor Joe Mihevc has been outspoken in criticizing the decision to hold the special meeting, saying it was a “vendetta” against those who disagree with Mayor Rob Ford.
The office of Mayor Rob Ford issued a statement Tuesday evening in support of the commission’s decision to terminate Webster.
“Gary has served Toronto and the TTC well in his years of service,” says the statement. “But, it’s time for the organization to look forward.”
The mayor cited a need for the TTC to modernize, review its structure and introduce “skills-based board members to augment the politicians directing the organization.”
“The time is right for a new leader to take the reins at TTC and lead the organization through this period of major change.”
On Wednesday, Webster issued a statement to TTC employees expressing his gratitude to employees for providing “excellent, safe and courteous service to our 1.6 million daily customers.”
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