Today is Election Day so make sure to cast your ballot.
Our updated Party Platform Municipal Issue Tracker provides a list of issues from the four main party platforms that touch upon municipal jurisdiction.
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OMAA's Safeguarding Our Local Democracy: Stronger Municipal Governance Benefits All Ontarians calls 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. This can include: -
Engaging local companies and businesses that provide international trade/cross-border logistics/shipping/brokerage services to share thoughts/ideas on ways to address or mitigate tariffs.
- Engaging with local businesses/companies who are impacted by tariffs to find other supplier/customer options, revisit supply chains to look for ways to avoid attracting tariffs.
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Working with US multi-nationals that operate in Canada to see how we can support them and learn what strategies they are considering to move products/parts within their own company or broader supply chain.
- Advocating for government incentives for Canadian companies to quickly re-tool to bring raw materials to finished products (lowering cross border movement in the processing of materials).
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Setting up buyer/supplier networks (across provinces and the country) starting with the highest tariff-attracting items/products or most vulnerable industries to increase awareness of Canadian suppliers/consumers.
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 by clicking the button below. |
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Here are some municipal initiatives currently underway: |
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Northumberland municipalities unite in joint action to support ‘Team Canada’ approach
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. We are very pleased to have recently added the following session on Thursday morning: “They did what?” Council-Staff Relations at a Tipping Point? Sabine Matheson, Mary Ellen Bench, and Stacy Hushion, StrategyCorp
The political environment outside our borders and in Ontario has become more challenging than ever, and in many municipalities, social tensions and polarization are translating into growing friction between Council and staff. As members of Council and staff come and go, it’s only natural that the dynamics of their interpersonal relations are always evolving. But with the ceiling of “just how bad can the conduct get” seeming to get worse all the time, the professionalism of how we govern has never been more important than today. This session will examine Bill 241, role of governance tools, the Implications of the DEI counter-revolution on local political dynamics, plus optimizing the relationship with Integrity Commissioners.
Check out the Program-at-a-Glance for the latest updates. The Early Bird ends tomorrow 28 February.
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 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. This training normally costs $1200 but is only $999 for OMAA members. 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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11 April Aspiring CAO Session in Kingston |
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Interested in becoming a CAO one day?
Join us in Kingston on 11 April for a day filled with great advice, networking, and hands-on workshop segments for Aspiring CAOs including:
-- moving up the municipal ladder in an expediated fashion
-- things Councils look for in a new CAO and recruiter Q&A
-- contracts, mentoring, and building your brand
-- developing your elevator pitch and LinkedIn Profile Registration is only $25 for members or $99 for non-member |
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Call for Long Service Recognition |
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Long Service Recognition Awards are presented annually to OMAA members in honour of their years of service in the role of Chief Administrative Officer or equivalent head administrator title.
The milestone years recognized are 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 years of service. Service doesn't have to be continuous, nor does it have to be all in one municipality. Members self-nominate and are recognized at one of the annual banquets during their anniversary year. Click the button below to fill out the brief form if you are eligible this year.
Deadline for submissions is 17 April 2025.
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Director of Community Services |
Grey Highlands (Markdale) |
Join our team of dedicated and professional staff, and experience a collaborative, supportive work environment where your efforts are appreciated, and your growth valued. You will have the unique opportunity to work with some truly inspirational community leaders and collaborate with colleagues to accomplish organizational objectives, shaping the future of Grey Highlands together. If you are ready to immerse yourself in an enriching, fast-paced role and contribute to the continuing development of Grey Highlands, we are eager to hear from you.
Due to a vacancy, the Municipality of Grey Highlands is receiving applications to fill the permanent full-time position of Director of Community Services. Reporting to the Chief Administrative Officer, the successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing Building Services, Parks and Recreation, Economic Development and Fire and Emergency Services within our newly reorganized Community Services Department.
Provide strategic overall management, administration, and coordination of the following service areas: facilities, parks, fire and emergency services, recreation and events, building inspection, economic development, tourism, and culture. Ensure the municipality is in compliance with current related legislation. Coordinate, liaise, and network with other departments, Grey County, consultants, contractors, various Provincial and Federal agencies, funding and approval authorities, stakeholders, and community groups. Cultivate positive relationships with community representatives, organizations, special interest groups and individuals. Collaborate with the CAO on economic development and tourism opportunities and initiatives. Prepare annual operating and capital budgets and various financial reports related to capital projects, asset management, and maintenance programs. Establish, review, and administer the department’s long-term and annual capital and operating budgets in conjunction with the Treasurer and finance staff. Monitor and approve department expenditures and revenues within the approved corporate framework. Conduct research and source information and prepare reports, make recommendations, and represent the Community Services Department at Council, public meetings and other functions as may be directed by the council and/or the CAO. Write, implement, and revise policies and procedures as required by the department and its operations. Ensure that all operating procedures, policies, and records documentation are created, managed, and adhered to. Regular site visits will be required to manage projects effectively and oversee business units operating outside of the main office location. Develop and maintain a good working relationship with Council, staff and the public, which includes: Provide corporate oversight to goals and directions and ensure the asset management program aligns with the Municipality’s strategic plan in cooperation with the senior management team. Coach, and mentor departmental staff and project teams on their respective areas of the department. Comply with all office procedures. Attend meetings, conferences and workshops. Participate in the resolution of delivery service issues. Communicate ideas, suggestions, and procedural changes which may assist the organization. Assist where and when needed during staff shortages and/or emergency situations. Responding to public enquiries in a timely manner. Responsible, as a supervisor, for health & safety under the Occupational Health & Safety Act (OHSA).
Closes: 14 March 2025 |
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Executive Assistant (EA) to the CAO |
Township of The Archipelago (Parry Sound) |
Reporting to the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), this existing position will provide administrative and executive level support to both the CAO and Reeve. The EA is expected to manage a high volume of work in a consistent, confidential and timely manner. Not only supporting the CAO and Reeve this position will interact with Members of Council, municipal and other government representatives, businesses, community organizations, the public and with all employees at The Archipelago.
Who we are
The Archipelago is a water-based, seasonally oriented municipality consisting of a portion of the 30,000 islands in Georgian Bay and a number of inland freshwater lakes. The Archipelago acknowledges that the community resides on traditional Anishinabek territory. Our team is made up of committed and passionate employees who, in partnership with its community, ensure the continued guardianship of the lakes and watershed areas within the Georgian Bay Mnidoo Gamii Biosphere. Who you are You want to be part of a municipality with an environmental focus, and you want the work you do to make a difference. You like a team environment where everyone has an opportunity to contribute to achieve shared goals. You are a proactive individual with excellent organizational skills, strong communication abilities who can manage sensitive and confidential issues with tact and diplomacy. You like problem solving, expanding your horizons and making positive impacts on your community and beyond.
Why work for us
A progressive team, dedicated to lifelong learning, career advancement and collaboration. Our Administration Office, located in the hub of Parry Sound, overlooks the Seguin River and is only steps away from the Rotary and Algonquin Fitness trail where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the Georgian Bay shoreline. In addition to the beauty of the area, we offer a robust employee benefits program, an Employee and Family Assistance Program and are members of the Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System (OMERS).
Duties
Provide general administrative support to the CAO, including scheduling internal and external meetings, calendar management, travel coordination and maintain highly confidential documents including Human Resource and legal in-camera reports. Coordinate CAO led meetings and provide administrative support including agenda distribution, taking and distribution of meeting notes and action items in a timely manner to members of the Executive Leadership Team (ELT). Prepare draft Council and Committee reports, specialized reports directed by the CAO and research, write, format, and edit correspondence and reports on behalf of the CAO and Council. On behalf of the Reeve, coordinate conference registrations, meetings, travel arrangements and assist in the coordination of agenda materials and letters. Act as a barometer for issues arising in the workplace and inform the CAO accordingly. In the absence of the CAO, provide business continuity as required. Communication and Intergovernmental Relations Draft memos, communications to Council, letters, reports and confidential correspondence as required for the CAO and ELT. Acts as a communication link between the CAO, Reeve and Council, government agencies, other agencies, ELT, employee groups and the public. Provide administrative support to the Director, Legislative & Information Services and the Manager, Human Resources as necessary.
Salary Range: $60,106 – $70,316, based on a 35-hour work week
Closes: 17 March 2025 |
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Commissioner of Corporate Services |
Niagara Region is a regional municipality serving more than 480,000 people who call Niagara home. They provide essential services for day-to-day life, from clean water, roads and waste collection to public safety, housing and more. The Region believes in social, environmental and economic choices that support its diverse community and foster collaboration with its partners in making Niagara a prosperous place for everyone. As a Regional government, Niagara Region is composed of 32 council members, who represent Niagara's 12 cities, towns, and townships. Geographically, the region is as diverse as the municipal services that sustain it. Located between Lake Ontario and Lake Erie, Niagara encompasses an area of 1,852 km2 and is home to communities rich in both character and history.
Reporting to the Chief Administrative Officer, the Commissioner of Corporate Services provides a high level of strategic leadership in the delivery of centralized support services for the Region of Niagara and its shared service partners, ensuring that departmental programs and services can respond to the strategic priorities, objectives, and initiatives of the Region. The Commissioner oversees the development and implementation of services and functions of the Corporate Services Department, which includes Facilities, Legal and Court Services, Strategic Procurement, Finance and Treasury Functions, IT Solutions and Asset Management. As a member of the Corporate Leadership Team, this position involves actively participating in the development and implementation of corporate-wide strategies, structures, systems, and policies. The successful candidate will be responsible for cultivating and managing relationships with both internal and external stakeholders, ensuring alignment with departmental strategies and meeting financial and performance expectations. Additionally, this position will oversee long-range people resource planning, driving engagement, optimizing workforce performance, and ensuring an effective organizational structure that supports corporate culture and strategic objectives. The role also includes the development, management, and approval of annual and multi-year Capital and Operating budgets, with a focus on financial transparency, accountability, and adherence to corporate policies.
Closes: 21 March 2025 |
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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.
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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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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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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Ship and Rail Compensation Canada is a new compensation hub for anyone affected by oil spills from ships or boats, as well as by major railway accidents involving crude oil. Visit www.ship-rail.gc.ca to find out more about what damages and losses are covered and how to submit a claim. Download the new Local Government Checklists on their website to be ready to recover costs and protect your community when it matters most!
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The effects of misinformation, disinformation and malinformation (MDM) cost the global economy billions of dollars each year. Often known colloquially as “fake news,” MDM is damaging to public trust in institutions and, during elections, may even pose a threat to democracy itself. MDM has become a serious concern for consumers and organizations of all sizes. New technologies such as machine learning, natural language processing and amplification networks are being used to discredit factual information. Disinformation campaigns may use artificial intelligence (AI) and generative AI to spread false and misleading information, such as deepfakes. The Canadian Centre for Cybersecurity offers consumers and organizations information on identifying MDM and implementing the appropriate security measures to counter it.
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