the OMAA Observer

3 April 2025

Empowering Transitions – New Supports & How You Can Help Your Colleagues Thrive

Are you ready to help your colleagues navigate the challenges of transition with confidence and support?

Are you prepared for a potential transition?

 

Whether it's a political shift, organizational change, or personal milestone, the transition period can be a daunting time for many. But, with the right tools and knowledge, we can not just survive, but thrive. Join us for a short webinar on new supports for members in transition on 15 April (12:30--1:00 pm) to discover practical ways you can be an invaluable resource to your colleagues during this critical time.

 

There is no cost to register -- login instructions will be provided 2 days before the event.

 

What will be covered:

  • Practical tools for peers – Equip yourself with actionable strategies to offer guidance and encouragement during times of transition.
  • Strategies for Transition–  Our new Bridge the Gap guidebook has a helpful checklist, plus great advice for job searches and interviews.
  • OMAA supports – Quick breakdown of revised and new supports specifically for MITs.
Register for this free webinar

Provincial News

Premier Doug Ford named his new cabinet on 19 March 2025.

 

The Legislature will be called back on 14 April 2025 to begin the 44th session of Parliament. The government's plans and priorities for the new session will be outlined in the Speech from the Throne on 15 April 2025.

Federal Election 2025

The next federal election will take place on 28 April 2025.

 

Elections Canada has launched ElectoFacts to help Canadian electors easily check whether information about elections is true or not. It also informs electors about how federal elections are run and about the safeguards that protect them. The narratives in this register include some of the main false ideas or beliefs that Elections Canada has seen when trying to understand the information online on federal elections.

 

If you see information about elections that you think might be inaccurate or misleading please email them at electofaits-electofacts@elections.ca.

US Tariffs and Buy Local Strategies

Export Development Canada (EDC) Tariffs 101: What are tariffs and how do they impact international trade?

 

Government of Canada's Supports for Business

 

Competition Bureau guidelines to help businesses ensure their “Made in Canada” and “Product of Canada” claims are truthful.

 

The Oh Canada Tech Directory, by DMZ is a go-to web page for governments, ministries, universities and businesses to find the best Canadian tech companies to meet their needs. 

 

The Ontario Business Improvement Area Association (OBIAA) Shop Main Street Canada. Support Local campaign urges Canadians to embrace a local-first mindset.

 

BuyCanadianDeals.ca is a daily email that features a business story, a deal, plus 10 Canadian products.

 

Find a wide range of Ontario Made registered products at Ontario Made.

Municipal CAO Education and Career Trajectory Survey

OMAA is pleased to be working with Thomas Thayer (Municipality of Bayham CAO and Western University MPA Student) on an important study focusing on education and career trajectories of Municipal CAOs in Ontario.

 

We would like to invite you to take part in an important confidential survey of current CAOs/Deputy CAOs/equivalent senior administrators across the province. The study is led by the Western University Local Government Program. Information received through the survey will be provided to OMAA to improve our professional development and collaboration options.

 

We invite you to complete the survey now. This will take about 10 minutes. Participation is optional. Completion of the survey implies consent to use your information for research purposes only.

 

This survey is strictly confidential, and your answers will be used for research purposes only. The survey will be live until 25 April 2025. Click on the link below to take the survey.

Take the Survey

Last Chance for Aspiring CAO Event

Interested in becoming a CAO one day? 


Join us in Kingston for a day filled with great advice, networking, and hands-on workshop segments including:

 

-- opportune times in the municipal sector

-- things Councils look for in a new CAO and recruiter Q&A
-- contracts, mentoring, and building your brand
-- pathways to becoming a CAO

 

Registration is only $25 for members or $99 for non-member. Registration closes on April 6.

ACAO Session Registration

Job Board

Chief Administrative Officer (CAO)

City of Stratford

Join the City of Stratford, a thriving cultural epicentre in southwestern Ontario, as our Chief Administrative Officer (CAO)!

We are seeking a dynamic, principled leader to drive our City’s strategic initiatives and core service delivery, in a community renowned for its manufacturing and tourism sectors.

As the senior advisor to Council, you will ensure that directives and decisions of Council are effectively implemented and managed. You will be the senior liaison with provincial offices and other municipalities. You will also lead the strategic planning process and manage the senior leadership team.

Why should you consider Stratford as your next opportunity for growth? Small City Charm with Big City Amenities –Stratford offers a small city feel combined with award-winning dining, cultural opportunities such as the Stratford Festival Theatre and access to high-quality healthcare, ensuring an excellent quality of life. Once in a Generation Impact – provide strategic direction on the Grand Trunk Renewal Project, a transformative initiative to preserve and revitalize Stratford’s historic site. Flexibility – a hybrid work from home policy allows for work-life balance. Competitive Compensation – (currently under review) with comprehensive benefits and OMERS pension. 

Closes:  Friday, 25 April 2025 at 4:30 p.m. 

More Info

Chief Administrative Officer/Clerk

Township of Chatsworth

Join our Team and Embrace the Chatsworth Lifestyle!  Are you ready to embark on a fulfilling career while embracing the tranquility of rural life?  We would love to hear from you.

Here's Why You Should Consider us:
*  A supportive and Collaborative Team - work with dedicated staff and Council that values guidance rooted in experience, strategic thinking and acknowledging the Township's Heritage 
*  Competitive Compensation - Benefit from a strong salary package, with comprehensive benefits and OMERS pension
*  A Rural Lifestyle with Big Opportunities - Located in the heart of Grey County, the Township offers breathtaking natural beauty, from serene waterfalls, rolling agricultural fields,              picturesque lakes, all nestled against the backdrop of the Niagara Escarpment.  Enjoy the natural beauty of Grey County while making a tangible impact on local governance
*  Modern Amenities in a Rural Setting - The community offers the convenience of larger centres with easy access to healthcare, shopping, dining and recreational facilities ensuring a high quality of life.
*  Extra Perks - Receive an additional week of vacation in lieu of attendance at Council meetings, allowing you more time to explore and enjoy everything our community has to offer.

Your Opportunity
*  Work as part of the Senior Management Team with overall responsibility for Management of Municipal Operations, Human Resources and all legislated duties
*  Support Council in its policy, planning, budgeting, community relations and economic development work
*  Carries out all duties of the Municipal Clerk as set out in the Municipal Act
*  Provide advice and information to facilitate Council decisions and act as the primary liaison between Council and Staff
*  Ensure service delivery and general government operations meet statutory obligations are carried out in a cost efficient, effective, and customer friendly manner
*  Provide overall financial management and fiscal policy development in consultation with the Treasurer
*  Explore opportunities for economic development and establish effective business supports and partnerships in the community.

Closes: 4 April 2025 

More Info

Director of Finance / Treasurer

Dryden, Ontario

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.

Why Join the City of Dryden?Leadership & Impact – Influence major financial decisions and drive fiscal strategy at the municipal level.Innovation & Modernization – Lead digital transformation in financial operations, leveraging technology for smarter decision-making.Community & Quality of Life – Experience the benefits of small-city living with outdoor adventure, strong community connections, and a supportive work environment.Professional Growth – Work alongside a dedicated leadership team, gain exposure to provincial and municipal financial governance, and contribute to long-term city planning.Competitive Compensation – Enjoy a rewarding career with a competitive salary, pension, and benefits package.

More Info

In the News

Women of Influence's Five Questions With Uxbridge CAO Kristi Honey

 

After an illustrious career spanning over 26 years, Middlesex County CAO Bill Rayburn announced his retirement on 31 March 2025.

 

Town of Orangeville issues official update on cybersecurity incident

 

OMAA Picks

A three-day course/webinar on the Municipal Class EA process takes place 10-12 June 2025. The course will cover:

  • The fundamentals of the Class EA process and its benefits
  • How municipalities can effectively use the process to move projects from concept to construction
  • Key strategies for managing and streamlining the MCEA process
  • Updates on planned amendments to improve the process

Registration link and full details can be found here: https://municipalengineers.on.ca/events/mcea-update-training1/index.html/event-default/index/id/63

 

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