OMAA has shared three key asks that we believe would make a meaningful difference for all Ontarians with the main four political parties: Safeguarding Our Local Democracy: Stronger Municipal Governance Benefits All Ontarians.
We call upon all candidates to prioritize areas vital for enhancing municipal governance across Ontario. Foundational to the health and prosperity of our communities, good governance involves maintaining balance between elected leadership providing direction and municipal operations conducted by a professional CAO charged with implementing that direction.
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The Mayor-CAO Relationship – Building a Foundation for Success Co-hosted by AMO & OMAA
19 March 2025 11:00am -12:00pm Virtual
AMO and OMAA are hosting a conversation on a key ingredient to a successful, effective and high-performing municipality- the relationship between a Mayor and CAO. This critical partnership sets the tone for your organization and can be a key factor in retention and attraction of employees as well as community relationships. In today’s climate, setting the tone and nature of the Mayor-CAO relationship is a win-win approach. Join us in discussion as we explore the key elements of a productive Mayor-CAO relationship.
We have assembled an expert panel to explore: Defining Roles & Responsibilities – Avoiding overreach and conflict by respecting professional boundaries. How have things changed since Strong Mayor powers have been brought in?
Building Trust Through Communication – How regular, honest, and transparent dialogue aligns priorities and strengthens collaboration.
Maintaining Professionalism & Neutrality – Why the CAO’s non-partisan approach and the Mayor’s support of professional administration matter.
Fostering Innovation & Proactive Governance – Encouraging creative solutions for better municipal outcomes. Join AMO, OMAA and your municipal colleagues to gain valuable insights, hear real-world examples, and enhance the leadership dynamic in your municipality. Panelists: Mayor Darrin Canniff and CAO Michael Duben from the Municipality of Chatham-Kent Mayor Lynn Dollin and CAO Oliver Jerschow from the Town of Innisfil Moderator: Lindsay Jones, AMO Director of Policy |
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Some municipalities have begun to explore ways to support Provincial and Federal responses to the US tariffs, particularly around promoting "Buy Local" policies. Several municipalities have struck task forces to look into how to better support Canadian producers. A challenge, however, is how to navigate existing Procurement By-laws and regulations.
Has your municipality found innovative ways to align local procurement with Buy Local initiatives? Have you adjusted policies, developed creative programs, or implemented new strategies to support local businesses while remaining compliant? Please share any experiences, best practices, and any lessons learned Please send in your ideas by clicking the button below. We appreciate your input and will share all responses. |
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Here are some municipal initiatives currently underway: |
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The Border Mayors Alliance unites Canadian border mayors to protect economic and developmental interests.
The City of Burlington has launched a task force and a "Buy Canadian" campaign to encourage residents to support Canadian entrepreneurs and workers.
The City of Mississauga is committed to supporting Mississauga’s businesses, entrepreneurs, and residents on the evolving threat of tariffs on products and services entering the United States (U.S.) market. Invest Mississauga has created Mississauga Partners in Trade page with information, services and connections that can help you navigate these uncertain business conditions.
The Eastern Ontario Wardens Caucus (EOWC) has quantified the Top Commercial or Industrial Exports by Eastern Ontario Census Division and called on its Federal and Ontario government partners to ensure municipal governments are part of the coordinated approach and leverage local expertise and relationships
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Spring Workshop and Public Speaking Training |
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The 2025 Spring Workshop takes place from May 14-16 at the JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort.
The Wednesday night keynote speaker is Rock it by Talking It delivered by Stuart Knight
The program is almost complete--check out the Draft Program-at-a-Glance for the latest updates.
The Early Bird has been extended until 28 February due to continued mail delays.
You may also book your hotel room (including extensions) at the JW Marriott by phoning 705-765-1900 or via https://book.passkey.com/go/OMAA2025
Can't make it in person? Sign up for the Livestream option. Can't commit for the duration? Sign up for the Thursday or Friday only options. |
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Join us on May 14 (at the JW 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. This small group 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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Call for Board Nominations |
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Looking to get more involved in OMAA? Our Board of Directors nominations are now open. The OMAA Board of Directors champions our mission to empower municipal professionals through growth, networking, advocacy, and leadership. In partnership with OMAA staff, the Board enhances programs and services that elevate members' skills and performance, ensuring lasting impact.
We are currently accepting nominations for the following positions on our Board of Directors:
- One (1) Director for a two-year term commencing May 2025
You must be a CAO and a member to be eligible. The deadline for applications is 22 March 2025.
OMAA is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion. The Association must reflect the diverse communities we serve and include the perspectives of individuals of all backgrounds. We strongly encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds to seek nomination. |
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Delicate Issue -- Ask a Mentor |
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When you're facing a tricky challenge or a delicate issue, the right advice can make all the difference. Instead of navigating it alone, why not call on an experienced mentor who has been there before?
With OMAA’s Mentorship Match-Up Program, you can select a seasoned municipal leader who understands the unique challenges of your role. Whether it's handling a complex policy decision, managing a difficult council dynamic, or tackling an unexpected crisis, your mentor can provide insight, perspective, and practical solutions to help you move forward with confidence.
Why Mentorship?
✅ Get Unbiased Guidance – A fresh, experienced perspective can illuminate solutions you hadn’t considered.
✅ Learn from Experience – Gain real-world advice from someone who has successfully navigated similar challenges.
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Chief Administrative Officer |
Tweed is both a village and a municipality located two hours from Toronto and Ottawa, in eastern Ontario, within Hastings County. Known as the Gateway to the Land O’ Lakes and the Bay of Quinte Region, the Municipality of Tweed is celebrated for its small-town friendliness, affordability, accessibility, beautiful natural surroundings, outdoor recreational activities, and vibrant annual events.
The Municipality has a total population of about 6,057, with 2,512 private dwellings occupied by residents. Approximately 30% of the population lives in the Village of Tweed, the primary urban center, while the remaining 70% reside in five hamlets throughout the extensive rural area that stretches from Wadsworth Lake in the north to Roslin in the south. Covering approximately 230,000 acres, about 30% of the Municipality consists of Crown Land, while lakes, rivers, and streams account for roughly 4,650 acres. There are approximately 600 kilometers of roads throughout the area.
Tweed provides a wealth of outdoor experiences for families and visitors alike. With activities ranging from fishing and hunting to hiking and canoeing, the region is blessed with recreational opportunities that cater to all interests. Families will appreciate access to quality schools, healthcare facilities, and reliable internet services—all conveniently located within a short drive to the regional hubs of Belleville and Kingston.
This community is an ideal setting for a municipal professional seeking to establish deep roots and thrive alongside a Council and community dedicated to progressive leadership and a high quality of life.
With a combined operating and capital budget of approximately $11M and over 40 permanent and part-time staff, the Municipality of Tweed is committed to meeting the needs of our 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 with related experience from either a public sector 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, develop our workforce and inspire our employees, while ensuring customer service excellence. Lastly, you will have an exceptional understanding of forward-thinking strategies as it relates managing responsible growth, ensuring effective municipal operations in a fiscally accountable fashion and guiding our organization into the future, while retaining our small-town community charm.
Closes: 7 March 2025 |
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Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) |
The Town of Essex is located in southwestern Ontario, approximately 28 kilometres southeast of the City of Windsor. It is one of seven lower?tier municipalities in the County of Essex with borders extending from the hub of the county to Lake Erie. Essex includes two urban centres (Essex Centre and Harrow) and two hamlets (McGregor and Colchester). These unique communities are surrounded by a thriving wine and agriculture industry and boast a wide range of recreational facilities, an excellent school system, and affordable living options.
The Town is current seeking qualified candidates for the position of Chief Administrative Officer.
As the top executive position for the municipality, the CAO is responsible for providing strategic vision and effective leadership to the whole organization and is the administrative representative to the community. With the support of the Senior Management Team the CAO plans, organizes, directs and controls all municipal operations and services in accordance with municipal policies and relevant legislation and oversees and provides leadership and direction to cross-departmental efforts to continuously improve the overall citizen experience.
The Town of Essex offers a competitive salary in the range of $191,871 to $233,225, complimented by an excellent benefit package.
Closes: 7 March 2025 |
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Director of Finance / Treasurer |
The City of Dryden, located on Wabigoon Lake, in the heart of Northwestern Ontario, is enveloped by the beauty of tranquil lakes, stunning views, and the boreal forest. Dryden offers the perfect blend of opportunities to raise a family, launch a business or enjoy retirement. The city has grown the conveniences of an urban centre without losing its rural, neighbourly charm.
Dryden is a community in motion, known for its abundant outdoor activities such as fishing, hunting, and hiking but also for its first-class fully equipped recreation complex. There is something for every sport and outdoor enthusiast in Dryden, waterfront golf course, beaches, canoeing, cross-country skiing, easily accessible hunting in the Boreal Forest and fishing in and on local pristine lakes.
The City of Dryden is seeking a visionary Director of Finance/Treasurer to drive financial sustainability and strategic growth in our thriving municipality. As a key member of the senior management team, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the City's financial future, ensuring responsible fiscal management, and implementing innovative, yet prudent, financial strategies that enhance service delivery and community well-being.
Dryden offers an exciting opportunity for finance professionals who are enthusiastic about public service, governance, and financial leadership. Here, you will enjoy the challenge of balancing strategic financial planning with operational efficiency, all while making a meaningful impact in a close-knit and engaged community. |
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Executive Director Building & Chief Building Official |
The Executive Director, Building & Chief Building Official provides strategic leadership to ensure all newly constructed commercial and residential buildings meet provincial and municipal standards and regulations. This role oversees the issuance of licenses and permits for construction in Toronto, ensuring compliance with technical standards and regulatory frameworks. Reporting to the Deputy City Manager, the Executive Director drives operational excellence, policy development, and service improvements to support the city’s growth and development.
The ideal candidate is a visionary and results-oriented leader with a proven track record in managing regulatory compliance, policy development, and operational oversight within a large organization. They demonstrate expertise in stakeholder engagement, financial management, and driving performance improvement while ensuring alignment with government standards and priorities. The candidate is skilled in building collaborative partnerships, leading change initiatives, and navigating complex regulatory environments to achieve organizational goals. Beyond the core role, the successful individual will be a key member of the Development and Growth team helping with key Council priorities such as the Housing Crisis. Passion and progressiveness is how this individual should be described in balancing their need to ensure compliance and challenge the status quo and create excitement and motivation the division.
Closes: 24 February 2025 |
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The Town of Gore Bay is located on Manitoulin Island in Ontario on the majestic north channel of Lake Huron, with access to the best freshwater boating in the world. Gore Bay offers a splendid outdoor experience, with a pristine natural setting.
With a population of approximately 1,000, the Town of Gore Bay also serves as a busy service hub to the surrounding municipalities, serving 4,500 people in total. Whether you need to visit the bank, send a letter at the post office, or access vital services at Service Ontario, everything is a walkable distance. From well-stocked grocery aisles, to trusted legal services and courthouse, to financial services, to transportation services, to a modernized local airport, the Town offers all the essential services needed for everyday life.
Looking ahead, Gore Bay is actively pursuing a vision to double its population over the next 20 years, and with our progressive council, we are well on our way! In Gore Bay, future residents will find a Town that is growing in both size and opportunity, where community spirit and modern ambitions go hand in hand.
The Town of Gore Bay is looking for a people leader that inspires a high-performance team to deliver extraordinary services for the community we serve. The successful candidate will receive a competitive starting salary within the range of $90,000 to $110,000, coupled with an OMERS pension and excellent benefits package. Closes: 28 February 2025 |
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Sometimes unexpected things happen that completely derail your plans. You wake with the rising sun, step outside, and find that the world is not as you left it.
"Life is what happens to us while we are making other plans," wrote Allen Saunders. We walk forward with purpose, clutching our little blueprints for the future, only to be knocked sideways by things we never saw coming.
The gut reaction is always frustration. We shake our fists at the sky, curse the unseen forces that have thrown us from our course. But as Marcus Aurelius once wrote, "The impediment to action advances action. What stands in the way becomes the way." Better to take a breath, collect ourselves, and see not just the ruin but the possibility hidden within it.
Some give up in the face of misfortune. They take their losses and let them pile upon their backs like stones, growing heavier with each passing day. But others—those who understand the fickle nature of fate—wipe their hands, adjust their footing, and find another way forward. For at the end of it all, we must remember what Camus understood so well: "In the midst of winter, I found there was, within me, an invincible summer." The frost may come, and it may kill what we planted, but it cannot touch what grows inside us. Plans may fail, but the will to begin again is ours alone to command.
And so, when the unexpected comes—when the course is broken and the way ahead seems lost—do not mourn too long. Do not stand too long in the wreckage. Instead, take stock, take breath, and step forward. |
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Municipalities have an increasingly important role hosting electricity projects as part of efforts to meet a projected 75% increase in electricity demand, and to support a major provincial priority. To empower municipalities in this role, AMO has developed a Municipal Electricity Procurement Toolkit to support municipal review and decisions on proposed energy projects. It consolidates answers to common questions and highlights resources that municipalities found useful when engaging with energy developers and assessing proposed projects.
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Most of us are struggling with how best to make housing more affordable for the current generation of renters and potential new buyers A new paper from CD Howe Institute Making Housing More Affordable in Canada: The Need for More Large Cities argues we should make our currently less populous cities more attractive, and larger, allowing them to take advantage of agglomeration effects and supply housing at lower cost. The requisite policies to make this happen require action at all levels of government.
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