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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O. Reg. 560/24: EXEMPTION FROM APPROVAL (OFFICIAL PLAN AMENDMENTS) was filed December 20, 2024 under the Planning Act. It exempts the lowers tier municipalities in the regions of Durham, Niagara, Waterloo from approval by the upper tier. |
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Don’t miss out on all that 2025 has to offer! Renew or join now to access exclusive member benefits, including:
Professional Development: Workshops, webinars, and resources tailored to your growth. Networking Opportunities: Connect with industry leaders and peers at OMAA events.
Advocacy and Support: Be part of a strong voice shaping the future of our field. Discounts and Perks: Enjoy reduced rates on events, publications, and more. Invoices for 2025 were sent out in December and can be accessed under your member login.
Don’t delay—secure your membership today. |
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Last Call for Member Survey |
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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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Spring Workshop Registration Now Open |
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The 2025 Spring Workshop takes place from May 14-16 at the stunning JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort & Spa. Our workshops include a mix of social events, educational sessions, quick hits, and sponsored sessions--all aimed at giving CAOs and Aspiring CAOs the tools they need to be more effective. The Wednesday night keynote speaker is Rock it by Talking it delivered by Stuart Knight
Note: your 2025 membership must be paid before you can access the member rate. A $75 charge is applied to all refund requests. No refunds after 8 May 2025.
You may also book your hotel room (note this is separate from event registration) via the link provided by the JW Marriott: https://book.passkey.com/go/OMAA2025 |
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The OMAA Schulich School of Business CAO Leadership Program is 50% full. This program is ideal for new CAOs and Aspiring CAOs in municipalities of all tiers and sizes across Ontario. Professional managers and key decision makers will gain the vital leadership skills, strategies, and methods needed to better support elected officials and effectively implement Council policies, levelling up to more senior roles.
After completing the CAO Leadership Program, you'll receive an authentic digital badge from the #1 business school in Canada. Upon completion of additional programming through Schulich ExecEd, you will be eligible to receive a Master's Certificate in Municipal Leadership.
It is hosted in a convenient choice model of virtual or in-person and features top-rated instructors with guest appearances from seasoned CAOs: 24 March Module 1: Transformational Leadership Virtual or In-person at the Nadal Centre
25 March Module 2: Culture Shaping Leadership Virtual or In-person at the Nadal Centre 10 April Module 3: Solving Complex Problems Virtual
24 April Module 4: Digital Futures Virtual 8 May Module 5: Political Acuity Virtual or In-person at the Nadal Centre Note: a discount code for the Novotel Toronto Centre will be provided to all registrants. |
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Join us for a webinar about the CAO Leadership Program on January 22nd at 12-1pm.
Learn more about what this program entails directly from Scott Vokey, Executive Director of OMAA, and faculty member Rob Adams, CAO of Town of Erin. |
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Boost your confidence and command the room with the Advanced Communication and Presentation Skills Workshop, a full-day, hands-on training delivered by the experts at Commanding Presence. Limited to just 20 participants, this workshop offers:
Customized Assessments: Pre-workshop assessments ensure your coaching is tailored to your goals. Transformational Video Feedback: Review your recorded presentations with valuable input from peers and the coach.
World-Class Coaching: Receive expert, personalized coaching that builds on your unique speaking style and personality. You’ll leave with the skills to present confidently, think on your feet, and make memorable, persuasive connections. Join us for an empowering experience that’s both challenging and rewarding! |
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Deputy Chief Administrative Officer |
The Municipality of Chatham-Kent has an opening for a permanent full-time Deputy Chief Administrative Officer.
The Municipality of Chatham-Kent is a single tier municipality. Located between Lake Erie and Lake St. Clair, Chatham-Kent covers a large geographical area of 2,500 sq. km. Each community in Chatham-Kent has its own unique character and history, but all enjoy the safe and affordable lifestyle that makes the region popular. Chatham-Kent's population has steadily been increasing and diversifying. Chatham-Kent is currently home to 106,091 people and over 55 languages are spoken. With a population density of 42.4 people/sq. km, there is plenty of room to grow.
Overview of Responsibilities
Reporting to the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), the Deputy Chief Administrative Officer (DCAO) will be an executive team member who will be responsible for assisting the CAO in developing and implementing the Municipality’s strategic plans, delivering upon Council’s term priorities, and overseeing long-range municipal wide projects and other initiatives, at times in conjunction with the Office of the Mayor. The DCAO will also be responsible for coordinating the municipality’s advocacy to provincial and federal levels of government on matters of municipal or regional interest and importance. In addition, the DCAO will provide leadership and oversight in certain corporate and customer facing services, to be determined based on and tailored to the candidate’s experience and development profile. The DCAO may also serve as the Acting CAO in the CAO’s absence to ensure business operations are carried out in a professional and customer service-oriented manner.
The Deputy CAO is a member of the Executive Management Team and attends all Council meetings.
This permanent full-time position has an annual wage range of $196,476 to $240,957, plus participation in the OMERS pension plan (mandatory), vacation entitlement and a comprehensive benefit package that includes life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment, short- and long-term disability, extended health and dental benefits following the successful completion of a 3-month waiting period. Closes: 31 January 2025 |
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Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) |
United Counties of Leeds and Grenville (Brockville |
The United Counties of Leeds and Grenville (Leeds Grenville), with a population of 100,546, has 13 dynamic municipalities within its borders. They include 10 municipalities and 3 member municipalities. All offer an excellent quality of life set over a diverse landscape. Investment and new business is welcome throughout the region. This is an area "Where lifestyle grows Good Business."
The United Counties of Leeds and Grenville is a transportation hub in the Province of Ontario. Its location stretches over 3,350-square kilometres and offers business and industry enviable access to Highways 401 and 416, the main CNR line, a deep-water port and two international bridges to the U.S. The Counties are centrally located between Toronto and Montreal. International airports are within 30 to 60 minutes. The entire United Counties region boasts a high quality of life and it has earned the World Health Organization's Safe Communities designation.
As the administrative lead of the Counties, the CAO performs the duties and functions and exercises the powers assigned by the Municipal Act and other enactments, or those assigned by Council. This position leads the Corporation and Senior Directors, and is a key advisor to Council, providing vision and leadership, and informing Council on the operation and affairs of the Counties. The CAO must recommend policies, plans, and programs that will benefit The United Counties of Leeds and Grenville by being strategic, innovative, accountable and fiscally sound in the administration and coordination of the delivery of services and businesses in a manner that will ensure the sustainable utilization of human, financial and physical resources of the Counties.
Leading a talented team of staff, this position guides and inspires a dedicated workforce in their efficient delivery of municipal services and helps shape a workplace culture founded on the Counties Core Values of Accountability, Inclusivity, Respect and Improvement-Focused. The Chief Administrative Officer is a visible partner in the community and workplace and a champion of community engagement, development and sustainability. Closes: 6 February 2025 |
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Chief Administrative Officer |
The Township of North Huron is a progressive, vibrant and growing community of over 5,000 residents. Located within Huron County, North Huron is comprised of the former Village of Blyth, the former Township of East Wawanosh, and the former Town of Wingham. North Huron is a community with strong agricultural and rural roots, and boasts excellent farmland, engaged volunteer groups, beautiful and rugged landscapes, modern and productive agricultural businesses and a business community that is global, progressive, and growing. North Huron also serves as a regional hub for northern Huron County and southern Bruce County by providing a range of services including education, healthcare, daycare, social services and fire services.
With a combined operating and capital budget of approximately $17M and over 80 permanent and part-time staff, the Township of North Huron is committed to meeting the needs of our residents and business community by delivering efficient and effective services. For more information, visit the community profile for North Huron.
Council recently adopted a new strategic plan for the current term of Council and beyond. The vision for the Township is a prosperous and engaged community that welcomes visitors, families, residents and businesses through strong agriculture, development, culture and tourism. The mission is to offer an affordable and sustainable high quality of life by delivering excellent and efficient services to residents, businesses and visitors. The new strategic plan is based on six strategic pillars that include strengthening the economy, a welcoming community, effective governance and modernization, well-maintained infrastructure, high-quality services, and environmental stewardship.
The ideal candidate will be an experienced, trusted and collaborative leader with a proven track record of results and accomplishments in municipal government. You will have exceptional communication skills and the political acumen to interact with diverse interest holders to foster the development of partnerships, engage and inspire our employees, while ensuring customer service excellence.
Reporting to the Reeve and Council, the Chief Administrative Officer is responsible for the strategic leadership and efficient delivery of all the municipality’s administrative and operational services. As the key advisor to Council, you will work closely with elected officials to develop and implement operational plans and ensure the coordination of services which align to and support our strategic priorities. You will recommend policies, plans, and programs that benefit our residents by being efficient, accountable and fiscally sound. You will work to enhance growth and development in the community as well as ensure the effective utilization of resources through the priorities and guiding principles in our strategic plan.
Closes: 31 January 2025 |
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Interim Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) |
Reporting directly to Council, this position is accountable for the overall leadership and administration of municipal operations as well as the execution of Council’s Strategic Priorities and all other objectives, decisions and actions approved by Council. Leading and overseeing the Leadership Team, this position is responsible for providing direction and oversight to all municipal staff, while striving for continuous improvement in performance. The CAO position will inform and guide Council, providing recommendations and advice related to all operations and affairs of the Municipality. The CAO will direct the overall planning, strategy and business affairs of the Municipality of Meaford and ensure all corporate objectives, organizational initiatives, and goals are achieved in accordance with approved bylaws, policies, budgeted resources and strategies.
Qualifications
1. Degree/diploma in business/public administration, political science, finance, engineering, or related discipline with applicable professional designation or an equivalent combination of experience and education.
2. Minimum 10 years' related experience in management and supervision. Municipal experience is a strong asset.
3. Strong communication (written, oral and interpersonal), organization, analytical, problem-solving, coaching, leadership, motivation and staff development, time management, employee relations, public/media relations, and strategic planning skills.
4. Proven success in strategic thinking, business strategy, and change management.
5. Influencing and motivational skills, extensive experience mediating and resolving conflicts and negotiating complex matters.
6. Ability to be decisive and possess sufficient business acumen and political savvy to assist Mayor and Council with complex decisions and guide staff through challenging initiatives.
7. Thorough knowledge of legislation and provincial policies relative to the municipal process.
8. Ability to demonstrate tact and discretion in handling matters of a confidential or politically sensitive nature; and to maintain confidentiality.
9. Ability to deal effectively and courteously in all aspects of the position; to work effectively at fostering good rapport and cooperative working relationships; and to champion the corporate mission and values.
Full list of Role Specific Duties and Responsibilities on the website
Closes: 24 January 2025 |
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Chief Administrative Officer |
Are you a motivated results-oriented individual with experience in a municipal department looking for a new challenge?
The Township of Norwich is located in scenic Oxford County, just a short drive from Woodstock, London, and Kitchener-Waterloo. Norwich Township is family-oriented with space to explore the outdoors, new housing developments, and lots of growth potential. A growing community of approximately 11,200 residents, Norwich Township is a central hub community feeding other communities with many restaurants, shops and employment opportunities.
Reporting to Council, the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) is an integral member of the municipality’s leadership team and is responsible for the management, care and custody of all of the human, financial and material resources of the municipality. The CAO is responsible for the overall management of the Township of Norwich in accordance with the policies and plans established and approved by Council, which include but is not limited to: Provides vision and leadership to the Municipality through planning, organizing and directing the operation of all municipal services; Advises Council and recommends actions for the development and implementation of programs and policies as required to facilitate and promote the welfare of the municipality and its citizens; Co-ordinates, leads and directs Senior Staff in the efficient administration of the municipality, including resource management; Prepares and provides recommendations and guidance for policy making by Council; ensuring elected officials have sufficient information on which to make effective decisions, and provides recommendations based on staff analyses, municipal plans and objectives; Manages the business affairs of the corporation; Manages the human resource activities for the Township and oversees the development of policies, standards and procedures to including recruitment, employee relations, health and safety, etc.; Promotes internal communication and engagement, including awareness of Council decisions and policies; as well as effective working relations between Council and Staff; Collaborates with Department Heads on recommendations that consider all relevant aspects of Council policy, strategic plan, budget, legislation and other department and community input; Exercises all of the powers and duties of the position of Chief Administrative Officer, as may be prescribed by the Statutes of Ontario, and as prescribed by Council; Administers effective public relations between the Township, its officials and the community at large: establishes liaisons and positive relationships with the business community, boards and authorities, other levels of government and acts as a spokesperson on behalf of the administration; Attends and participates, as necessary, in Council meetings and ensures that appropriate resource persons are in attendance, when necessary; Provides direction and support for Economic Development in the Township; Performs other duties as assigned by the Council and/or as may be required by law.
Closes: 10 January 2025 |
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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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2025 is upon us and seems certain to be uncertain. When certainty slips like sand through the fingers, a leader must learn to walk forward with the courage to admit that one does not know and to act nonetheless.
To lead in uncertain times is to live with paradox. Heraclitus reminded us that "the only constant in life is change." Leaders must not merely accept this truth but embrace it, letting go of the desperate need for control. The river is always moving, and to cling to its banks is to drown in irrelevance. Instead, a leader must wade into the current, unafraid of its force, and chart a course not by the stars, but by the feel of the water against their skin.
The concept of impermanence or that all things are transient is central to Buddhist teachings, which assert that recognizing the impermanent nature of all phenomena can help us navigate uncertainty with greater acceptance and understanding. Renowned Buddhist teacher Pema Chödrön, reflects on this concept: "The root of suffering is resisting the certainty that no matter what the circumstances, uncertainty is all we truly have." By embracing the impermanent and uncertain nature of life, we can cultivate resilience and find peace amid the ever-changing circumstances of our existence.
Yet this is not to suggest a passive surrender to chaos. As Marcus Aurelius counseled: "You have power over your mind—not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength." A leader must anchor themselves in principles that do not waver even as the world shifts. Flexibility in strategy, yes—but firmness in values. The heart of leadership lies in this delicate dance between constancy and adaptation. |
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Whether at work or at home, you might deal with angry, hostile, or noncompliant behavior every day. Your response to defensive behavior is often the key to avoiding a physical confrontation with someone who has lost control of their behavior. The Crisis Prevention Institute's Top 10 De-escalation tips will help you respond to difficult behavior in the safest, most effective way possible
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