the OMAA Observer

16 January 2025

Provincial News

Feedback on the Municipal Accountability Act, 2024, is due on 10 February 2025 via 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.

 

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.  

2025 Membership Dues

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. 

OMAA Payment Options

Spring Workshop Registration Now Open

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.


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  Be sure to select the correct dates.

SW Registration

Coming Events 

Join us on May 14 (just before the spring workshop starts) to 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!

Advance Communication Workshop Registration

?The OMAA Schulich School of Business CAO Leadership Program is 60% 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.

CAO Program Registration

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. 

Webinar Registration
 

A New Year Brings New Challenges

 

 

2025 is sure to bring some new challenges your way.

 

Who truly understands the pressures, challenges, and triumphs of being a Chief Administrative Officer? Who had to chart their career and climb through the ranks to become a CAO? Only a fellow CAO. That’s why the Mentorship Match-Up program is designed exclusively for CAOs and Aspiring CAOs like you.

 

This unique initiative pairs you with an experienced CAO mentor who has faced the same tough decisions, navigated complex organizational dynamics, and emerged stronger.

 

Whether you're looking for guidance on strategic planning, team leadership, or managing board relations, this program connects you with someone who gets it.

 

Any OMAA member can participate. All you need to do is login and connect with a mentor of your choice. 

 

25 fantastic mentors now have timeslots available for you to book.  Check it out today:  Mentorship Match-Up 

Job Board

Deputy Chief Administrative Officer

 Chatham-Kent

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

More Info

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

More Info

Chief Administrative Officer

North Huron

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

More Info

Interim Chief Administrative Officer (CAO)

Meaford

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

More Info

Members in the News

Tim Mills named the new CAO of the City of Cornwall

 

OPP investigating after complaint made about Pickering councillor Lisa Robinson. The OPP has launched an investigation into Pickering councillor Lisa Robinson, after the city’s integrity commissioner brought a complaint to police. 

 

Suzanne Vukosavljevic named new general manager of strategic communications and community engagement of the City of Guelph

 

 

Skipperism

It is no small thing to lead. To take a group of souls, each with their own doubts and desires, and inspire them to believe in the same horizon—that is the art of leadership. And this art begins with painting a picture so vivid that it eclipses the doubts of the present. 

 

As Aristotle once said, "The soul never thinks without a picture." Indeed, our thoughts are often accompanied by visual representations or mental pictures that help shape and enhance our understanding of concepts, memories, and ideas. A leader’s first duty, then, is to paint the picture that others cannot yet see. It is to sketch the outlines of a dream so clearly that even the blindest among the skeptics begins to feel its reality.

 

The art of leadership begins with painting a picture so vivid that it eclipses the doubts of the present. Strong leaders are not mere figureheads; they are the architects of a shared vision, a compelling narrative that beckons stakeholders to join in the journey.

 

In the end, it is the strength of the leader’s vision that will light the way forward, transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary. Like the setting sun that casts its warm glow over the fields, a leader's vision can illuminate the path toward a brighter tomorrow, inviting all to share in the journey and the promise of what is yet to come.

OMAA Pick

AMO's Municipalities Under Pressure: The Growing Human and Financial Cost of Ontario’s Homelessness Crisis reveals the unprecedented and growing toll of homelessness on individuals, families, communities, and governments. It outlines the risk of inaction and shows there is a reasonable path forward. The study’s findings indicate that Ontario is at a tipping point in its homelessness crisis. More than 80,000 Ontarians were known to be homeless in 2024, a number that has grown by more than 25 per cent since 2022. Without significant intervention, homelessness in Ontario could double in the next decade, and reach nearly 300,000 people in an economic downturn. The crisis stems from decades of underinvestment in deeply affordable housing, income support and mental health and addictions treatment, combined with escalating economic pressures on communities. 

 

The report proposes a fundamentally new approach that focuses on long-term housing solutions over temporary emergency measures and enforcement. AMO urges provincial and federal governments to take significant, long-term action on affordable housing, mental health and addictions services, and income supports to fix homelessness and improve communities’ economic foundations and quality of life.  

 

$200 is a non-partisan project that aims to encourage as many Ontarians as possible to donate the $200 we’ll be receiving from the Ontario Government to an organization that supports the public good. You would make your contribution directly to the organization YOU choose, through its own existing donation platform. The organizers are just asking you to tell them about it, so that they can tell you about the impacts we all made, together. You can pledge your donation and learn more about this project here: https://200dollars.ca/ 

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