The Province has introduced the Municipal Accountability Act, 2024, to establish a new, standardized municipal code of conduct and integrity commissioner framework for the next term of council.
The proposed changes strengthen the municipal code of conduct and integrity commissioner framework to: - Allow for the creation of a standard code of conduct for all municipalities and require mandatory code of conduct training for members of council and certain local boards.
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Create a regulation-making authority to set out the municipal integrity commissioner investigation processes, including a complaints mechanism and reporting requirements.
- Provide a role for the Integrity Commissioner of Ontario to provide advice to municipalities and training to municipal integrity commissioners and review all reports from municipal integrity commissioners recommending that a member be considered for removal and disqualification, as well as conduct inquiries.
- Establish a stronger penalty by establishing a mechanism for members of council and certain local boards to be removed and disqualified for four years for serious violations of the code of conduct
- The member has contravened the code of conduct;
- The contravention is of a serious nature;
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The member’s conduct that is the subject of the inquiry has resulted in harm to the health, safety or well-being of persons; and
- The existing penalties are insufficient to address the contravention or ensure that the contravention is not repeated.
The Municipal Accountability Act, 2024, if passed, would establish rules so that municipal integrity commissioners and the Integrity Commissioner of Ontario would only be able to consider and recommend removal and disqualification if they determine that all four criteria are met:
The legislation would also enable the Integrity Commissioner of Ontario to consider, among other matters, whether the contravention negatively impacts public confidence in the ability of the member to discharge their duties, and, of the council or local board to fulfill its role, including by meeting its statutory obligations.
The proposed changes would also create a process to remove and disqualify members of council and local boards that would include the following steps: -
Upon receipt of a complaint, the municipal integrity commissioner conducts an inquiry. If they find that the criteria for removal and disqualification are met, they can make a recommendation for removal and disqualification to the Integrity Commissioner of Ontario.
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If the Integrity Commissioner of Ontario receives a recommendation from the municipal integrity commissioner, they would be required to conduct an inquiry and determine whether the criteria for removal and disqualification have been met. If so, they can provide a recommendation to municipal council that the member be removed from their seat and disqualified for four years.
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If the Integrity Commissioner of Ontario recommends that a member be removed and disqualified, council must vote on the recommendation:
- All members of council who are not exempt would be required to vote in favour of the Integrity Commissioner of Ontario’s recommendation to remove and disqualify a member.
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Only the member(s) who is/are the subject of the report, members with approved absences or members who have a conflict of interest under the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act would be exempt from the vote.
- If council unanimously votes to approve the recommendation, the member is removed from their seat and is disqualified for four years.
The government intends to consult on these changes and work with the municipal sector to develop the necessary regulations to support the new framework coming into effect for the new term of councils in 2026.
OMAA remains keenly interested in working with the government to develop meaningful anti-harassment legislation that improves accountability, transparency, and overall municipal governance while creating a healthy, safe, and respectful municipal work environment. You can read our initial response and our paper Addressing Harassment in Municipal Government: The Need for Legislative Reform from August on our advocacy page.
You can provide feedback on the bill until 10 February 2025: Proposed amendments to the Municipal Act, 2001, and the City of Toronto Act, 2006 to standardize and strengthen the municipal code of conduct and integrity commissioner framework. Please email a copy of your organization's formal response to the registry posting to policy@omaa.on.ca to help inform OMAA's submission. |
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The Province has introduced the Safer Municipalities Act, 2024 to "help clear parks and public spaces of encampments". The bill includes amendments to the Trespass to Property Act, to enhance penalties for people who deliberately and continually break the law by adding the new aggravating factors of continuous trespassing and the likelihood to reoffend. In cases where these factors are present, these new tools will be applied by the court during sentencing.
The province is also dedicating $75.5 million for programs that provide more long-term stable housing and temporary accommodations for those living in encampments, including: -
$5.5 million to top up the Canada-Ontario Housing Benefit (COHB) to immediately free-up emergency shelter spaces for people living in encampments by helping people living in shelters move into longer-term housing, building on the nearly $400 million Ontario and the federal government invested in COHB between 2023 and 2024.
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$20 million to expand shelter capacity and create additional temporary accommodation spaces, like tiny modular units and climate-controlled semi-permanent structures, to provide people living in encampments with accessible alternative living options.
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$50 million in funding designated for ready-to-build affordable housing projects across the province. This funding will be allocated based on how close a project is to completion, as well as its value for money, to help projects near completion but in need of targeted additional funding to open their doors faster
The government is further protecting communities by introducing the Restricting Public Consumption of Illegal Substances Act, 2024 that will, if passed, allow police officers and other provincial offences officers to direct individuals to stop using illegal substances or to leave the public space. This will allow them to issue a ticket or arrest someone who does not comply, providing an important additional tool to stop the consumption of illegal drugs in public spaces. People found guilty of violating this legislation, including those doing so in encampments, could face fines up to $10,000 or 6 months in prison. As part of the province’s focus on long-term treatment and recovery, the government is exploring new judicial approaches that provide the option of rehabilitation as an alternative to incarceration in the event of minor or non-violent drug crimes.
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As part of our commitment to continuously improve and serve you better, we invite you to participate in our Annual Membership Survey. Your feedback is crucial in helping us understand your needs, enhance our programs, and strengthen our community.
The survey will only take a few minutes to complete, and your responses will remain confidential. By sharing your thoughts, you’ll play a vital role in shaping the future of our association and ensuring we provide the resources and support you need. |
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NOTE: 2025 membership invoices were sent out last week. Email Scott if you would like to add an additional member(s) under your membership |
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Call for Workshop Presentations and Coaching Sessions
The Planning Committee has started to prepare for the upcoming Spring Workshop and we’re seeking fresh and engaging presentation ideas to make this year’s event truly impactful.
If you have a topic, case study, or innovative idea for a plenary session, we’d love to hear from you. If you're a CAO or Aspiring CAO with a best practice, consider a Rapid Fire & Inspire session (8 minute presentation).
We are also looking for coaches for some short wellness focused sessions. Please reach out if you have experience leading a group meditation, tai chi, yoga, or any other wellness practise.
Please send a brief summary of your idea by 31 January 2025. Let us know if you have any questions—we’re excited to collaborate and make this conference a success together! |
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| As 2024 draws to a close and we look ahead to 2025, I want to take a moment to reflect on the successes we have shared and the opportunities awaiting us in the new year.
This holiday season, I am inspired by our members. CAOs are the architects of effective governance, bridging the gap between elected officials and daily operations. CAOs are community builders whose work strengthens trust in local government and creates spaces where individuals and businesses can thrive. CAOs bring stability by navigating challenges such as economic shifts, environmental concerns, and emerging technologies, all while keeping the community’s best interests at heart. I am also reminded of the strength, resilience, and dedication that define our association. Each of you—our members, partners, and supporters—has contributed to making this year one of progress and growth. Together, we have navigated challenges, celebrated milestones, and growth the association in terms of members, services, and impact.
Looking ahead to 2025, I am excited for what we will achieve together. Our collective commitment to our mission is the foundation of our success, and I am confident that our shared vision will continue to guide us toward meaningful accomplishments.
As we gather with loved ones to celebrate the holidays, I wish you peace, joy, and renewal. May the season bring warmth to your homes and inspire hope for the year to come. Thank you for being an integral part of this journey. On behalf of OMAA, I extend my heartfelt wishes for a happy holiday season and a prosperous New Year. Sincerely,
Laurie Kennard OMAA President |
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Head of Corporate Affairs |
Conservation Halton (Burlington) |
Conservation Halton (CH) operates as one of Ontario’s 36 Conservation Authorities and is recognized as an innovative and progressive leader in the public sector. Our jurisdiction spans 1,000 square kilometres across Milton, Burlington, Oakville, Halton Hills, Hamilton, Puslinch, and Mississauga, allowing us to serve diverse communities in one of Canada’s fastest-growing regions. With strong government, corporate and community partnerships and a robust and resilient operating model, we deliver high-quality programs and services that protect our region against natural hazards, preserve the natural environment, and enhance quality of life for 650,000+ residents.
Working at CH means being part of, and leading, a dedicated and diverse team of talented, passionate, and high-performing professionals. Our award-winning workplace embraces a culture of innovation and continuous learning at every level, reflecting the inclusive values and vision of our Board and senior leadership team. From our foresters, planners, engineers, and ecologists to our restoration specialists, dam operators, educators and many others, CH’s staff complement includes more than 150 full-time and 950 part-time employees who share—across unique roles and functions—a commitment to collaboration, data-driven decision-making, and customer service excellence.
Reporting to the President and CEO, the Head of Corporate Affairs is the key business enabler for Conservation Halton (CH). The position will provide multidisciplinary leadership to multiple departments and centres of excellence within CH overseeing a team of subject matter experts and will include:
Corporate Operating Procedures - Drive corporate strategies, policies, operating procedures, work methods and standards covering a range of CH internal and external services.
Corporate Strategy – With the support of departmental management team, office of the CEO, and cross divisional collaboration, this position oversees the development and execution of CH’s Strategic Plan. The incumbent plays a crucial role in the organization's strategic decision-making process.
Digital Technology – Provide executive oversight to the execution of a robust digital innovation strategy. Work with staff to optimize, information technology/GIS to leverage digital innovation data-driven approaches and new technologies. Responsible for a robust cyber security program to ensure our data, systems and digital assets remain protected and safe from cyber threat.
Business Development & Grants – This role will also have executive oversight to large scale business development initiatives and business opportunities through grants and partnership proposals. They are responsible for developing and implementing strategic initiatives to achieve the company's long-term goals. They analyze market trends, develop and evaluate business opportunities, and provide recommendations to the CEO.
Public Relations, Communications & Marketing - A strong collaborator and communicator with an entrepreneurial mindset and political acuity. The Head of Corporate Affairs will bring a deep knowledge of municipal and industry partners to build strategic relationships for exemplary public relations, high standard of customer service, crisis communications, and brand identity. As a trusted communications advisor, the successful candidate will provide oversight to CH’s communication team to analyze situations, identify opportunities, provide thought leadership, develop and execute effective communications supporting CH’s strategic plan.
Corporate Sustainability - As the key executive team leader driving organizational sustainability, the incumbent will be responsible for providing oversight to the development and execution of CH’s sustainability strategy, ensuring compliance with required execution, monitoring, reporting and effectively communicating climate change and sustainability initiatives to internal and external stakeholders.
Foundation Governance and Fundraising- The Head of Corporate Affairs will also provide leadership to the Executive Director Conservation Halton Foundation (CHF) leveraging key partnerships to further advance the success of the Foundation’s new and existing initiatives, supporting increased donor growth rate, donor retention, corporate sponsorships and increasing CHF overall revenue. Salary starting at $164,876 plus OMERS defined benefit pension plan, with free access to Conservation Ontario parks Season passes and lift tickets for the Glen Eden ski and snowboard area.
Closes: 10 January 2025 |
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Conservation Halton (Burlington) |
Reporting to the CEO and President, the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) is the key financial and compliance leader for Conservation Halton (CH) responsible for overseeing the financial strategy and driving business planning and fiscal responsibility including: -
Finance - Provide oversight to all aspects of CH’s financial planning reporting, budget and audit functions ensuring accurate and timely delivery of financial reports to internal and external stakeholders. Work with departmental senior management to deliver presentations for the board, senior leadership, and external stakeholders. The CFO will also collaborate with the CEO and the senior leadership team to align financial goals to strategic priorities and will provide guidance on future strategic investment plans and priorities. A key aspect of this role is to support long term business analysis and financial advice related new growth opportunities
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Risk and Compliance - Full accountability and oversight for the Risk and Compliance portfolio including working with staff to identify and develop strategies to mitigate risk enterprise-wide and manage the CH insurance portfolio. Ensure proactive resolution of enterprise-wide risk and compliance matters with specific focus on the CH Conservation Area programs and services. Together with the CEO, this role will also co-lead the Governance and Risk Committee of the Board.
- Procurement – Oversight of the continuous improvement of a robust procurement program for transparency and efficiency. Leadership and strategic advice to staff and final approval for large-scale procurement awards and associated legal and contractual matters.
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Infrastructure and Facilities – Provide strategic leadership to the management, new build and renewal related to CH’s infrastructure and state-of good repair capital program. Providing oversight to project managers overseeing large fiscal impact, this leader will also work with the Head of Corporate Affairs and Senior Manager, Corporate Services to align on matrix success through process improvement and internal capacity building related to change management and project management principles.
- Asset Management – Provide oversight to the development, management, updates, and long-term planning related to the Asset Management Program. Consideration of voluntary assessment, accounting, and management of Conservation Halton’s green infrastructure assets.
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Lands Management – Provide strategic financial guidance to the administration of land acquisition, disposition, and easements. Guide the team on land matters such as coordination of long-term quarry land transfer agreements with cross departmental support.
The CFO will focus on performance excellence and delivering results on strategic initiatives and will play a key role in asset management planning, influencing long term growth and asset management strategy to drive success.
Salary starting at $188,375 plus OMERS defined benefit pension plan, with free access to Conservation Ontario parks Season passes and lift tickets for the Glen Eden ski and snowboard area.
Closes: 10 January 2025 |
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Chief Administrative Officer |
Join the dynamic leadership team at the City of Greater Sudbury as we continue to shape the future of this thriving community! Nestled in beautiful northern Ontario, Greater Sudbury is a key contributor to Ontario’s economy and is home to over 179,000 residents, supported by a wide array of services.
Greater Sudbury is a vibrant, multifaceted urban centre, with leadership and expertise in mineral resources, health and life sciences, technology, education, and tourism. Known worldwide as a mining hub, the city also offers world-class attractions, urban amenities and incredible four-season outdoor experiences and adventure opportunities that continue to inspire and captivate. As the largest municipality in northern Ontario, Greater Sudbury is perfectly situated just a four-hour drive or 45-minute flight from the Greater Toronto Area.
At the City of Greater Sudbury, we are on a transformation journey, aiming to modernize our operations and enhance our efficiencies across departments. As Chief Administrative Officer, you will have the opportunity to lead these initiatives, driving change that will leave a lasting impact. You will be supported by a strong Executive Leadership Team to foster a culture of innovation and collaboration. You’ll drive strategic planning, performance excellence and the innovative delivery of municipal services, partnering with Mayor and Council in continuing to grow our community. You’ll oversee and guide the business plan, budgeting, and performance metrics, ensuring a forward-thinking approach to resources, organizational structures, and policies that foster sustainable economic development.
Closes: 20 December 2024 |
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Director, Environmental Services |
Reporting to the Deputy City Manager, Public Works, the Director, Environmental Services will manage a multimillion-dollar capital and operating budget and provide leadership and expert advice in the development of public works strategies related to solid waste management, water, wastewater and stormwater services. This position will ensure the delivery of high-quality programs and services for a growing community with evolving maintenance and operational requirements.
Leading a team of professionals in developing and implementing short and long-term maintenance and operations programs, the Director, Environmental Services will be an integral member of the senior leadership team, playing an active role in delivering the corporations strategic objectives. This leadership role provides direction and vision to a large staff complement of both non-union and unionized employees, working closely with the community, City Council, other levels of government and other City departments, developing partnerships and key integrated services to provide value for Vaughan and its citizens.
With your University Degree in Civil Engineering and Professional Engineer (P.Eng) Designation with the Professional Engineers of Ontario, you possess at least seven (7) to (10) years’ experience at a senior management level within a Public Works/Environmental Services environment; preferably within a municipal, unionized environment. We are looking for a candidate with strong leadership, analytical, interpersonal and change management skills with a demonstrated ability to
effectively interact with executive management. You are highly skilled in influencing, negotiating and building consensus amongst diverse groups, as well as have the ability to exercise sound judgement when resolving complex situations. As a coach, mentor, and leader, you strive to create a culture of empowerment and accountability and a team that feels well supported and valued. Closes: 3 January 2025 |
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It’s that time of year again. As Chief Morale Officer, I'd like to relate two things as we head into the holiday season: I appreciate you (and the challenging job you perform) and please take some real, meaningful down time. You humans don't relax enough.
So curl up by the fire and let’s spread some holiday cheer as the snowflakes dance outside.
During the holiday season, fostering positive thoughts can enhance our experiences and relationships, promoting a spirit of joy and gratitude. I am reminded of Marcus Aurelius:
“The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts.”
Let’s remember the true spirit of the season—love, joy, and companionship. Whether you’re a human or a furry friend, the magic of the season brings us together. So, let’s share our treats and make this a holiday to remember.
Happy holidays from all of us here at OMAA. We'll talk again on January 9. May your days in between be filled with belly rubs and warm snuggles. |
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