Ontario to Lift Interprovincial Barriers for Regulated Professions. Starting January 1, 2026, Canadians in certified professions can begin working in Ontario within 10 days, once credentials and requirements are confirmed by the regulator. The implementation of “As of Right” rules will apply across professions covered by more than 50 regulatory authorities and 300 certifications, helping employers fill critical gaps faster, protecting workers and supporting a stronger, more united Canadian economy.
Ontario has signed 10 agreements to date with provinces and territories across Canada to break down barriers to the free movements of goods and workers within the country. These agreements include reciprocal measures that will make it easier for Ontario workers to move to and work in other parts of the country, as well as for workers from those provinces and territories to work in Ontario.
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The Ontario government is investing $15 million over two years in the Community Access to Long-Term Care (CALTC) program that will enable people to receive long-term care services while still living in their own homes. The program is part of the government’s plan to protect Ontario by investing in public services, including by ensuring more seniors can age safely in their own homes.
The CALTC program will allow people still living in their own homes to access long-term care services, including clinical and personal care, nursing support, dementia resources and wound care, so they can age safely at home for longer. The program is open to seniors and others living in their homes who are on the long-term care waitlist, eligible for long-term care, or soon to be eligible for long-term care. CALTC is being launched in partnership with three long-term care homes in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area before expanding to additional sites in 2026, with a focus on rural and northern communities.
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Top 10 Ways Mayors and Councils Can Support their CAO and Senior Staff | |
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Strong municipalities are built on partnerships between elected officials and administrative staff. When mayors, councils, and their CAO with senior leaders work in
alignment, they create trust, clarity, and mutual respect. This collaboration turns policy into action, strengthens decision-making, and ensures services are delivered with
confidence and efficiency.
Our new Top 10 List highlights the top ten practical ways mayors and councils can provide support, build trust, and create the conditions for effective leadership
and administration. |
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Dear Colleagues,
If there’s one thing CAOs truly appreciate, it’s a sharp, forward-thinking strategic plan! Time has flown, and our current OMAA plan is nearly complete. What’s next? A brand-new plan is taking shape, and in the coming months, you’ll hear more about what’s ahead.
The board is excited to get started on the new strategy, which will chart an inspiring and inclusive course for the OMAA. We’ll be looking to build a plan that is driven by service to our members and the value we deliver for our communities. If you have any thoughts about what the plan should encompass, please reach out to me. I’m always happy to hear your ideas. Take care, Michael |
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A workshop favourite, the Rapid Fire and Inspire, is back with the following marvellous lineup: -
Building Municipal Risk Resiliency Shannon Devane, LAS Program Manager
- Urban Forestry as a Revenue Strategy, Felix Laroche, Jakarto
- Whitby’s Market Model Food Bank, Sarah Klein, DCAO Town of Whitby
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GruShare, A Municipal Shared Equipment Model. Gregg Furtney, CAO Town of Minto
- Continuous Improvement Through Practical Digitization, Pamela Nicholson, Government Frameworks
The trade show has sold out and there is limited space left in the pre-workshop events: Golf Tournament and Guided Hike and Butterfly Conservatory Trip. There are a few rooms left in the hotel block at the Prince of Wales. Book today!
Updated Fall Workshop Program at a Glance |
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OMAA and the Ontario Municipal Human Resources Association (OMHRA) are pleased to release the second edition of the CAO Employment Guide.
This guidebook provides Mayors, Councillors, Human Resource Directors, and CAOs with practical tools for recruiting, employing, and evaluating a CAO. The second edition includes guidance for Strong Mayor municipalities, along with: -
Best practices for CAO recruitment.
- Strategies for clarifying Council and CAO roles.
- Templates, options, and alternatives for employment contracts.
- Approaches and tools for performance evaluations.
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Scalable practices for municipalities of all sizes.
- Advice on when to consider external expertise in the CAO placement process.
We recognize that strong Council–CAO relationships are built on clear recruitment processes, defined roles and responsibilities, fair employment terms, and effective performance reviews. Together, these elements strengthen collaboration and support good governance across Ontario municipalities.
The guide can be accessed under the CAO Placement tab in the Member Library going forward. |
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OMAA is accepting applications for the 2025 Maureen McCauley Bursary until 30 September.
Thanks to our partner, AMO, we can now offer two $5,000 bursaries annually to support the education of future municipal government leaders. The Bursary is available to any student in a post secondary program meeting the following criteria: - Is a student residing in Ontario.
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Has completed at least one year of an Ontario university or an Ontario community college program that has the potential to lead to a municipal government career.
- Has submitted a completed Application Form.
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2026 CAO Leadership Course |
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| Are you an Aspiring CAO interested in taking the next step in your career? Or a new CAO looking to sharpen your skills? The CAO Leadership Program is your next step. This 5-day program—designed by CAOs, for CAOs—delivers the practical tools and insights needed to thrive at the top. - Interactive sessions
- Peer learning with experienced mentors
- Tailored for real-world municipal challenges
- Flexible: in-person or remote options.
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Senior Director, Strategies and Initiatives |
Reporting to the Chief Administrative Officer and participating as a key member of the Senior Management Team, you will lead the Strategies and Initiatives Branch — overseeing strategic planning, performance measurement, enterprise risk management, continuous improvement and emergency management across the Region. Your work will be instrumental in translating Council’s Vision into tangible and actionable results, guiding strategic initiatives and aligning organizational operations with the Region’s long-term goals. In this high-impact role, you will oversee development and delivery of the Region’s corporate strategic plan, coordinating updates every four years and reporting annually to Council on progress. You’ll lead the charge on continuous improvement and innovation, champion enterprise risk and performance management frameworks, and guide change management initiatives that ensure York Region remains a forward-thinking, results-driven organization. With oversight of the Region’s emergency management and business continuity programs, you’ll ensure we are prepared to respond to crises and maintain service continuity under any circumstances, championing innovation at all steps. Your ability to connect the dots between people, data and strategy will help York Region advance its strategic priorities and vision — fostering a high-performing, resilient public service that delivers real, measurable outcomes for our diverse communities. We’re looking for a collaborative, dynamic, and strategic leader with deep experience in public sector transformation, enterprise planning and cross-functional execution. If you are ready to make a lasting impact and help shape the Region’s future, we want to hear from you.
Almost 1.2 million residents call York Region home, making it one of the largest regions in Canada – and the fastest growing with a population that’s expected to grow to more than 2 million by 2051. Our geography, which is comprised of about 1,800 square kilometers over nine different municipalities, is as beautiful, interesting and diverse as our people. Local government is organized in a two-tier structure and we work together with our local municipalities to provide residents and businesses access to a broad selection of services and resources. WHAT WE OFFER Consistently named one of Canada’s Best Employers by Forbes, we offer a collaborative, progressive workplace that takes pride in our organizational culture and is committed to living The 13+ Factors of Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace – aligned with our vision to create strong, caring and safe communities both within and outside our walls. Defined Benefit Pension Program – With the Ontario Municipality Employees Retirement System (OMERS) defined benefit pension plan, you can confidently retire knowing that you will have income for life. Eligibility from date of hire as a full-time employee and includes employer-matched contributions. Employer of Choice – Recognized as the highest-ranking government employer in Canada and fourth overall among 300 organizations. Benefits and Wellness – Employees and their loved ones have access to a comprehensive employer-paid benefits plan that includes extended health, dental and life insurance, access to a 24/7 Employee and Family Assistance Program and corporate discounts and purchase plans for day-to-day products and services. Inclusive and Diverse Workforce – We’re committed to fostering an environment that celebrates all dimensions of diversity and ensures everyone can develop to their full potential, participate freely in society and live with respect, dignity and freedom from discrimination. Our robust Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility program continues to grow, and has been recognized by the United Nations and many other organizations for our leadership.
Salary Grade: $168,015.00 – $197,574.00
Closes: 30 September 2025 |
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Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) |
The Municipality of Thames Centre has a population of approximately 13,759 and is situated at the east end of the County of Middlesex. Thames Centre borders London directly to the east, features easy access to the London International Airport and is located near the centre of Southwestern Ontario along highway 401 between highways 402 and 403. This strategic access to the 401 allows residents and businesses easy access to London, Woodstock, Kitchener-Waterloo, Hamilton, Toronto and the central and eastern United States.
With a combined operating and capital budget of approximately $33M and over 100 permanent and part-time staff, the Municipality of Thames Centre is committed to meeting the needs of our residents and business community by delivering efficient and effective services.
In 2024, The Municipality has adopted a strategic plan for the current term of Council and beyond. The vision is a vibrant and safe community combining innovation and tradition for all stages of our life. The mission is to work together to sustain and grow the community through quality services and responsible leadership. The new strategic plan is based on a foundation of sustainability, the pillars of which include the Framework of Smart Planning, Community Communication & Engagement, Active Living and Economic Development. These pillars strengthen the Strategic Priorities of the Municipality.
Inspire our Future as our Chief Administrative Officer
As the ideal candidate you are an inspiring, principled, and collaborative leader with a proven track record of results and accomplishments in an efficient and fiscally accountable fashion 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: September 21st or sooner |
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Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) |
Due to the retirement of the incumbent, the Township of Perth South, containing a blend of highly productive agricultural operations and desirable residential properties, is seeking an experienced individual to become its Chief Administrative Officer.
The Township of Perth South was incorporated in 1998 following the amalgamation of the Township of Downie and Township of Blanshard. The municipality offers the best of rural and small town environments. With over 3800 residents and 80 businesses, there are welcoming people and ample opportunities for everyone. |
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Director of Long Term Care Services |
Home to 433 residents, Pioneer Manor is one of Northern Ontario’s largest long-term care facilities. We provide 24-hour compassionate, individualized care to adults who can no longer live independently. Referred through Home and Community Care Support Services, our residents benefit from a holistic approach that supports their physical, emotional and spiritual well-being.
The City of Greater Sudbury is currently seeking a dynamic and strategic Director of Long-Term Care Services to lead Pioneer Manor. Reporting directly to the General Manager of Community Well-Being, this key leadership role is responsible for the overall operational management and excellence of our long-term care services, ensuring the highest standard of care for residents and support for our dedicated staff.
What You’ll Do Lead with strategy: Develop and implement the division’s business and strategic plans to meet evolving community needs. Oversee operations: Administer all aspects of our Long-Term Care Facility in compliance with legislative standards and best practices. Drive quality outcomes: Ensure exceptional resident care, continuous quality improvement and full regulatory compliance. Influence and advocate: Liaise with provincial ministries, government agencies and community stakeholders to optimize services and secure funding. Manage resources: Oversee budgets, staff, programs and facility upgrades in alignment with corporate priorities. Build partnerships: Engage with advisory panels, families, volunteers and professionals to support collaborative and compassionate care.
The range of pay for this position is $159,442.29 to $187,724.25 per annum.
Closes: 12 September 2025 |
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Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) |
The Township of Springwater is a progressive, mixed urban-rural municipality located in the heart of Simcoe County, approximately 100 kilometres north of Toronto and neighbouring the City of Barrie. Home to a population of 22,700 and growing. Springwater features a blend of thriving urban settlements and a prosperous agricultural sector. The Township includes eight settlement areas: Midhurst, Elmvale, Snow Valley, Centre Vespra, Minesing, Anten Mills, Phelpston, and Hillsdale. Amalgamated in 1994, it is one of sixteen lower-tier municipalities within the greater County of Simcoe. Known for its scenic hiking trails, rich agricultural amenities, vibrant urban centres and the purest groundwater in Canada, Springwater offers residents a healthy lifestyle, a strong sense of community and one of Ontario's largest municipally owned forest networks, with a wealth of outdoor recreation opportunities. The Township is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, authentic workplace where employee wellness, learning, and collaboration are prioritized. With flexible work options and a supportive environment, Springwater is a place where you can find balance and grow your career.
Reporting to the Mayor, the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) is responsible for the strategic leadership and administration of the affairs of the Township in accordance with the objectives approved by the Mayor. Acts as the key advisor and liaison to the Mayor and Council. As the most senior appointed official, the CAO delivers on the Strategic Plan and is responsible for all human, physical and financial resources of the Township, attending Council/Committee meetings, and formulating and implementing policy, service level. The CAO leads and directs the Township’s Executive Team, to ensure effective and efficient service delivery that is aligned with Springwater Council’s strategic priorities and assumes full responsibility for implementing Township policies, decisions, and programs.
The ideal candidate is a motivational, values-driven, and team-oriented leader with a strong history of success in municipal government or a comparable business setting. Bringing outstanding communication skills, political insight, and a talent for building partnerships with a wide range of stakeholders – all while motivating staff and upholding the highest standards of customer service. The ideal candidate will lead a skilled team, within a unionized and non-unionized environment, inspiring a committed workforce and cultivating a workplace culture centered on service excellence, innovation, collaboration, inclusion and diversity.
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General Manager of Corporate Services / Legal |
The General Manager of Corporate Services / Legal is a key senior leadership role within the Township of Ramara, reporting directly to the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO). This position provides strategic oversight and expert direction for four critical municipal functions: Legal Services, Clerk’s Services, Financial Services, and Human Resources. As the Township’s primary legal advisor, the General Manager ensures compliance with all applicable legislation, regulations, municipal by-laws, and corporate policies. The role involves attending Council and Committee meetings, offering legal counsel on corporate matters, and supporting the development and implementation of effective corporate-wide policies.
As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, the General Manager plays a pivotal role in shaping the Township’s long-term vision, championing the corporate mission and values, and advancing strategic initiatives that enhance operational efficiency and public service delivery. The position promotes an organizational culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement by mentoring and empowering staff, supporting succession planning, and fostering professional development across departments. With direct responsibility for the Directors of Finance, Human Resources, and Legislative Services, the General Manager leads corporate planning efforts, manages risk, guides collective bargaining and labour relations strategies, and ensures transparent, fiscally responsible budgeting and reporting processes. This multifaceted leadership role is critical in ensuring that the Township of Ramara operates in a forward-thinking, compliant, and service-oriented manner.
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Wow we sure had some hot days this summer. And the climate crisis has turned our town centers into radiators. Asphalt, once the proud paving of progress, now bakes at 60+ C. Concrete plazas shimmer empty at noon because no one dares to linger. What should be the democratic living room of your town has become a forbidding furnace. Aristotle once said, “Man is by nature a political animal.” The polis or today's downtown core is the stage on which our common life is performed. A stage no one will step onto if it feels more like a griddle than a gathering place.
Urban planners have a deceptively simple prescription: shade. It is the oldest, most democratic form of climate adaptation we know. A tree planted in a plaza cools not only the spot beneath it, but an entire block. Pergolas and canopies extend the welcome mat into the hottest months. This is not decoration; it is infrastructure. Jane Jacobs reminded us that “Cities have the capability of providing something for everybody, only because, and only when, they are created by everybody.” If shade is missing, then entire groups are excluded from the very heart of civic life.
Environmental Journalist Sam Bloch's new book, Shade: The Promise of a Forgotten Natural Resource details how shade was once a staple of human civilization. In Mesopotamia and Northern Africa, cities were built densely so that courtyards and public passageways were in shadow in the heat of the day, with cool breezes flowing freely. The Greeks famously philosophized in shady agoras.
So audit your public squares for heat and comfort. Plant trees where needed.
Consider porticoes or fabric canopies where they make sense. And a nice fountain or water dish for us dogs would also be much appreciated. |
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OMAA: Connecting CAOs, Strengthening Municipalities You’re receiving this e-mail because you signed up for the OMAA newsletter.
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