the OMAA Observer

15 February 2024

 

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Provincial News

 

The Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing has updated the Municipal Councillor's Guide including Chapter 10 Strong mayor powers and duties 

 

These updates are intended to provide clarity on the framework. There is some flexibility for heads of council and municipalities to  implement strong mayor powers and duties in different ways, in accordance with the legislation and regulations, based on local needs and circumstances. 

 

The Province released its Third Quarter Financial Outlook on Monday. Ontario experienced strong employment growth and a low unemployment rate in 2023 but the labour market and real GDP growth have eased recently. The future path of consumer price inflation and the persistence of high interest rates continue to be a key risk to the economic outlook. Despite these challenges, Ontario’s economy is expected to see continued growth in 2024 but the deficit f $4.5 billion

Coming Events

Register for April 19's Aspiring CAO Session.

 

This afternoon event will kickstart with a networking lunch followed by three sessions;

  • Pathways to Becoming a CAO: lessons learned from experienced CAOs on how to build your skillset, build your story, and position oneself. Featuring Rob Adams CEO, Town Hall Consulting and Former CAO and Laurie Kennard, OMAA First Vice President and CAO of Severn Township.
  • Things Councils look for in a CAO and Interview Prep featuring Kartik Kumar, National Practice Leader Municipal Government, Legacy Executive Search Partners, and Tony Haddad, Senior Advisor, StrategyCorp and Former CAO.  
  • Positioning to Move Forward: building your brand on LinkedIn and best practice CAO contract featuring TBD and Scott Vokey, OMAA Executive Director 

Location:  Ivey Spencer Leadership Centre 551 Windermere Road, London, ON N5X2T1 

Cost:  Members $0  Non-members $99. Space is limited so register today.

 

Experienced CAOs Note: this is a good opportunity to help your direct reports and to support your succession plan. Consider encouraging an Aspiring CAO from your municipality to attend and/or add them to your membership if they are not there already.

April 19 Aspiring CAO Session Registration
 

We have two great choices for your Wednesday afternoon leading into the 2024 Spring Workshop.

 

Golf at the beautiful Royal Niagara Golf Course sponsored by Intact Public Entities. This event is beginner-friendly as it is played in a scramble format. Come out to have some fun and meet some new friends. 

 

If you'd rather sip than swing, than the Niagara Wine & Cheese Tour is for you. You’ll experience a cheese, charcuterie, and wine pairing, get an intimate look at how a winery operates, as well as sampling more delightful vintages.

 

A draft Program-at-a-glance is now available. 

 

NOTE: you must be a paid member to access member pricing so make sure to pay your 2024 membership first. Please let your Accounts Payable staff know OMAA banking info has changed. 

Spring Workshop Registration

Board Nominations

Are you a passionate and dedicated member eager to make a meaningful impact? Consider taking the next step in your involvement by joining the Board of Directors! Serving on the Board is not only a fulfilling experience but also a unique opportunity to contribute to the growth and success of our CAO and Aspiring CAO community.

 

Joining the Board of Directors is a rewarding journey that goes beyond the routine of membership. It's an opportunity to lead, inspire, and make a lasting impact on the association and its members.

 

We are currently accepting nominations for the following positions on our Board of Directors:
- Two (2) Directors for a two-year term commencing May 2024

 Deadline for submissions is 22 March 2024.

Board Nomination Application

Member Survey

We launched a 1 minute 1 question survey last week with the question: what is the biggest issue you currently face?

 

This is what we heard:

 

Council-staff relations. Staff feel like they do not have Council's confidence or trust to do their jobs creating discord.

 

Not enough staff to get all of the work done. Increased pressures from provincial changes, Covid, and increased public demands all having an impact.

 

Uninformed, outspoken members of the public disrupting good governance.

 

 

Job Board

Chief Administrative Officer/Clerk

Township of Billings

The Township of Billings is formed from Billings Township and the Eastern half of adjacent Allan Township, and occupies the north central portion of Manitoulin Island. It contains part of Lake Kagawong, Lake Manitou, Otter Lake and Lake Mindemoya, and its northern boundary is Lake Huron.

The extensive lake frontage explains the residence distribution, and the large portion of seasonal residences. The Kagawong River drains Lake Kagawong, flows over Bridal Veil Falls, and reaches Lake Huron in the Hamlet of Kagawong. The Harbour at Kagawong is directly south of the Benjamin Islands cruising grounds on the North Channel, and between the harbour towns of Little Current to the east, and Gore Bay to the west. The M’Chigeeng First Nation reserve is within the boundaries of Billings, with Mindemoya directly to the south. The economy of Billings is driven more by tourism and service industries than by agriculture or logging as in the past. Thousands of tourists annually visit the township and take in the natural beauty of the area as well as visiting one of Manitoulin’s premier sites, Bridal Veil Falls.

To live in the Township, is a truly captivating experience. We are a rural community that values genuine human connection. Tourists, farmers, artists, small business entrepreneurs, professionals, retirees, and all-around nature lovers call the Township of Billings home. We come from all walks of life and no matter our differences or lived experiences, our strength lies in the shared connections we establish with each other, knowing that we don’t need to go far to find good folks ready to lend a helping hand. With a combined operational and capital budget of $7M and a highly dedicated team of over 20 employees, Billings is committed to meeting needs of the residents and business community by delivering efficient and effective services.

As the ideal candidate you are an inspiring, principled, and collaborative leader with a proven track record of results and accomplishments for a public or private sector organization. You have exceptional communication skills and the political acumen to interact with an engaged council, diverse stakeholders, foster the development of partnerships, and inspire our employees, while ensuring customer service excellence. Lastly, you will have an exceptional understanding of forward-thinking strategies as it relates to managing effective municipal operations in a fiscally accountable fashion and possess the ability to guide our organization into the future while preserving the beauty of our community and the lifestyle we enjoy.

Benefits of working for the Township of Billings
If you enjoy nature and rural living and wish to live in the north- this is a unique opportunity to experience nature and rural living at is best. Benefits include: Affordable housing – house prices range from 400k to 500K. This includes an opportunity for waterfront ownership. At this price point many can live mortgage free if moving from an urban area. Healthcare - Two excellent hospitals located close to the community where you live. Education - An exceptional educational system at both the elementary and secondary levels. Outdoor Lifestyle - Access to a range of outdoor activities. If you like exploring, gardening, boating, fishing, hiking, golf, x-country skiing, snowmobiling, this is the place to be. Location – we located in a beautiful island setting in the heart of Manitoulin Island, Sudbury is a short two -hour scenic drive away. Quality of Life - If you like a slower pace, fresh air, and attainable housing then Township of Billings is the place to be for an unmatched quality of life.

 

Deadline: 1 March 2024

More Info

City Manager

St. Thomas


As the Senior Administrative position for the Corporation reporting directly to City Council has the overall responsibility, through subordinates, for the general control of the operation of the City subject to legal requirements and City policy.  Is responsible to coordinate advice to and from City Council, and boards and committees as required, regarding City policy, programs, and procedures and to act as the chief policy advisor to City Council.  Is a member of the Corporate Senior Management Team and is required to participate in corporate initiatives not directly related to scope of responsibility.
 
 
MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND ACCOUNTABILITIES:
 
Administration (45%)
 
Strategically co-ordinates, leads and directs the civic administration of the municipality in accordance with the policies and plans approved and established by Council.
 
Attends all Council meetings and any Committee meetings, as required.  Acts at the chief administrative advisor to Council on civic matters. Ensures the policy making process is effectively served with timely, practical suggestions with workable alternatives where applicable, responding to staff assessments and initiatives, Council initiatives and Federal and Provincial legislation and programs.
 
Directs the review and evaluation of the municipality’s resources, assets and programs providing analysis of alternatives for those resources, assets and programs that can improve their efficiency and cost effectiveness. In conjunction with department heads, makes recommendations to Council in respect of alternate policies, programs, and procedures.
 
Co-ordinates and directs department heads in the preparation of plans and programs to be submitted to the Council relating to the civic administration.
 
Meets with department heads regularly, for discussion of matters of policy approved by the Council and for co-ordination of all departmental activities.
 
Applies contemporary management methods to direct the business of the Corporation and implement the strategic decisions of Council.
 
Acts as the senior administrative contact with regard to relationships with the Federal and Provincial governments, municipal partners, agencies and organizations.
 
Fosters the leveraging of partnerships and funding opportunities which will be of benefit to the City.
 
Performs all of the powers and duties of the Chief Administrative Officer as prescribed by the Statutes of Ontario and as may be from time to time prescribed by the Council.
 
 
Deadline:  29 February 2024
 

More Info

Chief Administrative Officer

Town of New Tecumseth (Alliston)

The Town of New Tecumseth is located in the southern portion of Simcoe County. The community is strategically located near Highway 400, which is a direct link to Highways 401 and 407, as well as the Greater Toronto Area to the south and Barrie in the north.

It is a safe area with a strong sense of community and much to offer. The Town of New Tecumseth has three urban centres - Alliston, Beeton, and Tottenham, each with its own distinct urban feel and heritage. Surrounding these urban centres is a sprawling rural landscape boasting a rich agricultural history and identity. New Tecumseth is currently home to over 40,000 people and is a rapidly expanding community that grew by 28.4% between 2016 and 2022. Similar growth rates (24.3%) are expected to continue over the coming decade, with New Tecumseth’s population projected to near 60,000 by 2032.

The Town enjoys a diverse local economy with its main strengths being manufacturing; construction; retail trade; health care and social assistance. That being said, manufacturing is by far the most significant sector. Quick access to markets via strong transportation links provides needed assets for major employers that call New Tecumseth home; these include Honda of Canada Manufacturing, Baxter Canada, F&P Manufacturing, Nottawasaga Inn Resort and Stevenson Memorial Hospital.
With a combined operational and capital budget of over 87M and over 500 full and part-time employees, New Tecumseth is committed to meeting the needs of residents and a thriving business community by delivering efficient and effective services in our soon to be opened new municipal offices.

As the ideal candidate you are an inspiring, principled, and collaborative executive leader with a proven track record of results and accomplishments with related municipal leadership experience. You have exceptional communication skills and the political acumen to interact with an engaged council, diverse stakeholders, foster the development of partnerships, and inspire our employees, while ensuring customer service excellence. Lastly, you will have an exceptional understanding of forward-thinking strategies as it relates managing growth, ensuring effective municipal operations in a fiscally accountable fashion and guiding our organization into the future, while retaining the small-town community charm of our three urban centres.

Deadline: 1 March 2024

 

More Info

Chief Administrative Officer

Township of Oro-Medonte

The Township of Oro-Medonte is a picturesque and progressive municipality on Lake Simcoe, located between the cities of Barrie and Orillia, with a population of approx. 23,000, and a land area of 61,000 hectares. It includes a number of settlement areas that continue to urbanize and grow.  Oro-Medonte provides residents and visitors unparalleled, year-round recreational opportunities, the riches of life in a rural setting, with the convenience of being just a short drive to the Greater Toronto Area. As one of Ontario’s premier quality of life communities, the Township of Oro-Medonte is committed to its strategic goals including: Preparing for Our Future, Fostering Safe and Inclusive Community Living & Business Growth, Modernizing Township Services & Supporting our Workforce.

The Township of Oro-Medonte is seeking an experienced municipal professional as our Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) who will embrace and lead the Township’s talented team. Reporting directly to the Mayor and members of Council, the CAO is responsible for the strategic and inclusive leadership of the Senior Management Team and the general management of the Corporation.  The CAO, as the forefront of the organization, leads the Townships, mission, value and vision through promotion, demonstration and championing these foundational beliefs.  The CAO also serves as key advisor and liaison to Council. 

The ideal candidate will be an impactful leader with a proven ability to work collaboratively with multiple stakeholders and foster an environment of empowerment, accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement, aligning with the Township’s commitment to Public Service Excellence.   In addition, you are known for your business acumen, political acuity, your commitment to leading best practices, and fiscal accountability.

As CAO, you will ensure compliance with all applicable Provincial legislation/regulations and Township By-Laws; oversee and participate in interdepartmental and corporate planning and strategic initiatives; direct the preparation and monitoring of capital and operating budgets and long-term financial forecasts, provide approval of Council reports, and participate in all Council meetings.  In addition, the CAO is appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of the Municipal Service Corporation (MSC) Holding and Operating Corporations, as well as the Emergency Management Control Group Director.

 

Deadline: 28 February 2024
 

More Info

Director of Planning

County of Haliburton

The County of Haliburton is in the heart of cottage country in central Ontario approximately 2 hours north-east of the Greater Toronto Area and situated immediately south of Algonquin Park. The County is part of a two-tier governance structure including the Townships of Algonquin Highlands and Minden Hills and the Municipalities of Dysart et al and Highlands East with a total population of approximately 20,000. The County of Haliburton is a prominent tourist destination that sees our population more than double to approximately 43,500 on a seasonal basis. The Haliburton Highlands is an active community of artists, independent businesses, outdoor enthusiasts and for those enjoying a relaxed and vibrant lifestyle. This could be your location to live, work and play – come and join us in #MyHaliburtonHighlands.


Reporting to the Chief Administrative Officer, the Director of Planning has responsibility for a full range of professional land use planning functions as well as supervising planning staff and preparing and monitoring the planning division budget. This responsibility includes policy development, making recommendations regarding the County Official Plan to County Council, and associated committees of Council. Emphasis is on providing professional advice and working collaboratively with our local municipalities regarding land use matters. As part of the Senior Management Team, the Director shall be a collaborative thinker with the ability to adapt to change and interact effective governments and agencies, developers, consultants, and key stakeholder groups in a professional and courteous manner.


Key duties include ensuring compliance with legislation and Council policies; the effective and efficient delivery of development inspection services; implementation and improving long-term community plans and strategies; and providing planning technical advice and guidance to the Chief Administrative Officer and Council.

 

Deadline: 8 March 2024

More Info

Senior Solicitor, Planning & Development

Town of Newmarket

The Town of Newmarket, Legal & Procurement Services Requires a Senior Solicitor, Planning & Development Regular Full-Time (35 hours per week)
 
The growing community of Newmarket is home to 90,000 people and located 40 minutes north of Toronto, in York Region. As one of the most densely populated communities in Ontario, Newmarket may be small in area, but BIG things are happening there. From the transformation of a community landmark, the Mulock Property, into Newmarket’s very own Central Park to the renewal of the urban corridors to make them even more eclectic, vibrant, livable, and lovable – the Town of Newmarket is always looking forward.
 
Under the direction of the Director, Legal & Procurement Services, the Senior Solicitor, Planning & Development is responsible for all development related files. Negotiate, assist Planning Services Department with drafting and/or reviewing complex development related documents, including site plan agreements, condominium agreements, specialized agreements required for public use of private space and others as appropriate or as may be assigned by the Director. Undertakes full carriage of tribunal proceedings at the Ontario Land Tribunal related to land use planning, environmental/natural and heritage protection. Review subdivision and site plan agreements for legal compliance with applicable legislation, regulations, and by-laws. Complete all work in accordance with Department and Council strategic priorities.
 
 Deadline: 26 February 2024

More Info

Deputy Chief Administrative Officer

Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury

The Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury offers a return to small town charm while being one of the country’s fastest growing communities.  We are a vibrant, thriving community that possess a sense of pride and where community spirit prevails. Our Town is committed to being a complete and healthy community where there are opportunities for everyone to contribute and to benefit.  We are looking for a highly motivated professional to provide sound executive management support to the Chief Administrative Officer and Council.
 
Reporting to the Chief Administrative Officer, this position will oversee the Growth Services and Infrastructure Services departments.  This exciting new role provides an opportunity to work with committed professionals who are ready to take the next step in service delivery excellence.
 
Duties and Responsibilities include: Act as the CAO in the CAO's absence or as otherwise designated by the CAO. Attend Council/Committee meetings and make policy, service level, and long-range/ strategic/ business planning recommendations. Communicate and facilitate the implementation of Council decisions. Lead the Growth Services and Infrastructure Services departments in the design and execution of growth and asset management strategies and services. Direct the preparation of department budgets, providing recommendations with respect to both current and capital budgets, and exercise financial control over approved appropriations. Represent the Town with external agencies and on behalf of Council as required. Monitoring the activities of local Boards/Agencies, the County, and service partners of the Corporation. Oversee and monitor legislative compliance and sound fiscal management of the Corporation. Foster an environment of positive public relations, both internally and externally such that the public respects and has confidence in the administration of the business of the Town. Act as an ambassador within the local and larger municipal community and championing the programs/policies of Council promoting Bradford West Gwillimbury as a preferred place to locate.

 

Deadline:  16 February 2024

More Info

Director, Transportation and Fleet Management Services

City of Vaughan

Vaughan is one of Canada’s fastest-growing cities. Its emerging downtown, the Vaughan Metropolitan Centre; Canada’s first smart hospital, the Cortellucci Vaughan Hospital; and the 900-acre North Maple Regional Park continue to generate momentum and excitement. Be part of something amazing and build your career at the City of Vaughan!

The City is an equal-opportunity employer and a forward-looking municipality that is committed to fostering a dynamic workplace that is diverse, inclusive, and welcoming. As an award-winning organization for its employment and diversity and inclusivity practices, the City is focused on providing its employees with a thriving professional environment that leverages flexible work arrangements, a family-focused benefits package emphasizing work-life balance, learning and growth opportunities, and a place where collaboration and teamwork are valued.

Excellence demands brilliant personalities, visionary thinking, and a passion for public service. Vaughan is your place to grow.Position OverviewReporting to the Deputy City Manager, Public Works, the Director of Transportation & Fleet Management Services is responsible for leadership and direction of the Transportation & Fleet Services department, including overall management of road maintenance, winter control, traffic engineering and operations, right-of-way and utility coordination, and fleet services.

The Director ensures that the Department’s direction and activities are aligned with Corporate strategies and priorities, are compliant with regulatory requirements, and are positioning the Department for future success.

The Director is responsible for fostering a culture of respect, dedication, and accountability, where team members are engaged and eager to contribute ideas and innovations toward optimizing performance, value and citizen satisfaction.

 

Deadline:  17 February 2024

More Info

Member News

Skipperisms

Us dogs are finely tuned to natural cycles, so I was looking forward to the 

Lunar New Year with much anticipation. I was also hoping some duck might hit the floor.

 

This is a time of profound significance, symbolizing rebirth, renewal, and the promise of a fresh beginning. Confucius said, "It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop." This reminds us that the journey of life is not defined by speed but by perseverance and steady progress. Laozi reminds us of the cyclical nature of existence: "New beginnings are often disguised as painful endings." This encapsulates the essence of the Lunar New Year – a time when we bid farewell to the trials and tribulations of the past, recognizing that within every ending lies the seed of a new beginning. It is through embracing change and embracing the unknown that we discover the true beauty of renewal.

 

May the Year of the Tiger bring prosperity, joy, and abundance to you, and may we approach the future with open hearts and steadfast resolve.

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