In a statement to CTV News, London mayor Matt Brown is calling for the cancellation of the Jan. 8 Bill Cosby appearance at Budweiser Gardens.

"Given the situation, the reaction from our community and the reaction that we've seen across North America, I think it would send the right message for the organizers to cancel the show," the statement reads.

One city hall watcher says it's Brown's only move.

The McLeod Report blogger Phil McLeod says if the city forces its hand to axe the concert, tax-payers could be on the hook for several hundred thousand dollars in legal costs.

"We're talking serious money. That may be perfectly okay for a lot of people to say our principle is worth it. But it's a difficult thing for a new mayor to say this is. 'This is what we're going to do to stop this concert.' I think he's gone as far as he can legally by saying we think this is wrong," says McLeod.

But canceling the show doesn't appear to be on the agenda for the legendary comedian.

The promoter of Cosby’s upcoming performances in Ontario says the shows will be go on as scheduled.

Innovation Arts & Entertainment says it cannot cancel the show unless Cosby personally backs out.

Shows are scheduled not only in London, but in Kitchener on Jan. 7 and Hamilton Jan. 9.

Many people have expressed reservations about Cosby’s appearances, given the number of sexual assault allegations involving the comedian in recent months.

At least 15 women have come forward with accusations stretching back years, and two lawsuits are pending.

But Cosby has remained mostly silent about the allegations and no criminal charges have been laid.

So far, 10 of his shows have been cancelled or postponed since November.

Protests are scheduled outside of the London, Kitchener and Hamilton performances by women's organizations and labour groups, including Unifor Local 27.

Local 27 president Jim Reid says the mayor's revised statement is a major boost for those fighting to keep Cosby away.

"The financial impact to Bud Gardens was in his previous statement. If that's what's left on record, it's a sad commentary on leadership in this city. I know that he's probably talked to a number of people. He's moved on his position, and I congratulate him for that," says Reid.

"Who would at this point in time buy a ticket to go see Bill Cosby?" queries Reid.