Message from Ombudsman Susan E. Opler: Notice of Retirement

It has been my honour, privilege and pleasure to serve as Toronto’s Ombudsman since City Council appointed me in July of 2016.

After careful consideration, I have decided to retire from my position, effective April 21, 2021.* I hope that with six months’ notice of my departure, I will be able to help with my successor’s transition.

The role of Toronto’s Ombudsman is to ensure that the City administration treats all people fairly.

During my time as Ombudsman, my office has had the opportunity to help thousands of people who believed – often correctly – that the City had treated them unfairly in the delivery of services.

From the TTC’s new anti-racism strategy to improved quality of care at respite services for people experiencing homelessness and much, much more, I am deeply proud of what my team and I have accomplished together during my time as Toronto’s Ombudsman. I am confident the office is very well positioned for the future, and that it will continue to be an effective voice for fairness for all people.

I am grateful to the incredibly dedicated and hardworking staff of the City of Toronto, its agencies, boards and corporations, to all members of City Council, to the amazing staff of Ombudsman Toronto and of course to each of the many people who came to my office for help during my time here.

Serving as Toronto’s Ombudsman for the past four years has been a highlight of my long and rewarding legal career.

Thank you for the honour.

Sincerely,
Susan E. Opler
Ombudsman


*Editor’s Note, Spring 2021: At the request of Toronto City Council, the Ombudsman has agreed to stay in her post beyond the initial retirement date. The Ombudsman’s new departure date is July 22, 2021.