The Province has introduced an omnibus bill titled the Fighting Delays, Building Faster Act, 2025 that aims to expedite construction and reduce gridlock by: - Streamlining approvals for developments near transit and through Community Improvement Plans, expanding use of minor variances as-of-right, and prohibiting municipal green building standards.
- Prohibiting municipalities from reducing motor vehicle lanes for new bike lanes or other purposes (to be defined by regulation).
-
Creating a new legislative authority to create harmonized road construction standards for municipalities.
- Streamlining environmental approvals and making it easier to use excess soils where there is a low risk of contamination.
|
|
|
The Province has created the Panel for Utility Leadership and Service Excellence (PULSE) to "provide recommendations on investment frameworks, operational best practices, and regulatory reform planning needed to deliver a reliable, resilient and future-ready electricity distribution system across Ontario." The panel is composed of Anthony Haines, Paula Conboy, Alexander Nuttall and David MacNaughton, with support from former Governor of the Bank of Canada Stephen Poloz.
Their work will include: - Recommending operational and customer service improvements across the system
- Identifying strategies to address rising financing gaps to fund electricity infrastructure
- Addressing barriers to attracting investments into municipally owned LDCs
-
Reviewing ownership, governance and investment models that balance municipal interests, financial stability and system efficiency
|
|
|
The Province is proposing reforms to the Election Act and the Election Finances Act to remove fixed election dates and strengthen the rules around campaign finances and electoral spending. These include: -
Discourage bad actors by establishing new financial penalties for those who do not comply with the Election Finances Act.
- Require third parties to provide proof of registration status to broadcasters and publishers before placing political advertisements during an election period.
- Make the quarterly per-vote subsidy that is received by all parties a permanent measure.
- Eliminate pre-writ spending limits for third parties and political parties.
-
Increasing the annual amount a person can contribute to a political party from $3,400 to $5,000
- Ban political advertising on government property.
|
|
|
CAO Research Report Now Available |
|
|
|
Thomas Thayer's major MPA Research Project, To Know Where You’re Going, You Must Know Where You Are:
A Study of CAO Education and Career Trajectories in Ontario is now available.
This study explores the CAO function with the primary question being: “what education credentials and career traits are currently held by those individuals currently comprising the CAO function in municipalities in Ontario.” It makes an excellent contribution to the existing knowledge base and helps fill a a literature gap that exists in the area of study of municipal CAOs in Canada in general but specifically those that cover key demographic, education, and career progression aspects and establishes a detailed picture of the current Ontario municipal CAO.
This study seeks to address this gap while also exploring deeper personal traits, including career opportunities and challenges faced by incumbents in the role. |
|
|
Ready to take the next step in your municipal leadership journey?
Whether you’re an Aspiring CAO preparing for your next role or a new CAO eager to strengthen your skills, the CAO Leadership Program is designed for you. This intensive 5-day program—created by CAOs, for CAOs equips you with the practical tools, insights, and confidence to lead effectively at the top. What to expect:
• Interactive, hands-on learning
• Peer connections and mentorship from experienced CAOs
• Solutions tailored to real municipal challenges
• Flexible participation—join in person or remotely
50% of seats are already sold. Enroll today to accelerate your leadership growth. |
| |
|
Chief Financial Officer / Treasurer |
The Township of King prides itself on its natural heritage and scenic beauty, its agricultural lands, its rich local and rural history and its rural traditions of farming, mills and a vibrant quality of life. King is located just 40 km north of downtown Toronto, and covers an area of 339 square kilometers. The Township boasts some of Ontario's most beautiful and rolling country sides and natural areas. Over 98% of King Township is within Ontario’s Greenbelt, of which 65% is contained within the Oak Ridges Moraine. King Township is one of nine local municipalities that make up the Regional Municipality of York. It encompasses the villages and hamlets of Ansnorveldt, Kettleby, King City, Laskay, Lloydtown, Nobleton, Pottageville, Schomberg and
Snowball. The Township has experienced rapid growth in recent years with a current population of 29,800 people, projected to grow to 51,000 people and 17,700 jobs by 2031. An important asset of King Township is its strong rural economy, equestrian and agricultural sectors, which benefit from Holland Marsh's deep fertile soils and rich growing season. About 60% of the Holland Marsh, also known as 'Ontario's Vegetable Basket' is located in King
Reporting to the CAO, the Chief Financial Officer / Treasurer is a visionary leader responsible for shaping and executing the Township’s financial strategy. This dynamic role oversees the corporate functions of Finance, Tax, Purchasing,
Insurance/Risk, and is responsible for carrying out the statutory duties of Treasurer as set out in the Municipal Act. With a focus on innovation, accountability, and strategic oversight, this position leads key financial functions including annual budgets, external audits, financial analysis, corporate asset management, capital planning and revenue collection. The Chief
Financial Officer / Treasurer is central to developing and maintaining robust financial policies, covering cash management, reserves and reserve funds, and investment strategies, ensuring compliance with legislation and alignment with Council priorities. As a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, the Chief Financial Officer / Treasurer drives data-informed decision-making, fosters inter-departmental collaboration, and champions operational excellence to support the Township’s mission, vision, values, and long-term sustainability.
The Chief Financial Officer / Treasurer is responsible for the following Strategic Financial Leadership Financial Operations & Oversight
Asset Management Integration Technology & Data-Driven Decision Making Collaboration & Communication
Leadership & Human Resources Management Other duties and responsibilities as assigned. Salary Range: $171.808.00 - $208,990.60 (2025 Rate)
Closes: 17 November 2025 |
|
|
Middlesex Centre (Ilderton, ON) |
The Municipality of Middlesex Centre is a thriving, progressive, and welcoming community. Located just west of the City of London, Middlesex Centre’s rural charm and vibrant small towns make it a great place to live, work, and play.
What makes us special? Our team! We are supportive, inclusive, and collaborative workplace. We take pride in delivering the highest standard of municipal services to our community. We embrace our values of respect, cooperation, innovation, and integrity. If you are a team player who is passionate about your work and are always looking for ways to improve and grow, then we want to hear from you. We can offer you: Competitive compensation. Participation in OMERS, one of the best defined-benefit pension plans in Canada. Comprehensive health and dental benefits with a health care spending account. An employee and family assistance program. A culture that supports ongoing training and professional development. Position Summary Reporting to Council, the Chief Administrative Officer is responsible for providing vision and leadership to the Municipality through planning, organizing, and directing the operation of all municipal services in accordance with legislation, by-laws and policies established by Council; the CAO serves as the organization’s representative to the community and community organizations, media, other levels of government, and professional associations.
Compensation for this position is currently $194,044.50 to $230,997.00 per year. |
|
|
General Manager of Corporate Services / Legal |
The Township of Ramara is a rural gem nestled in Central Ontario just 90 minutes from the GTA. Positioned on the breathtaking northeastern shores of Lakes Simcoe and Couchiching, Ramara is the gateway to natural beauty with access to two provincial parks, pristine beaches, and scenic trails.
Ramara is home to just over 10,000 full-time residents, a number that swells in the summer months with seasonal residents and visitors. Whether it is the rural, small-town lifestyle, the friendly people, the beautiful scenery or infinite outdoor adventures, there are many reasons people from near and far choose Ramara as their home.
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.
|
|
|
Manager, Procurement Services |
Newmarket, Ontario is a vibrant and forward-thinking community that leads with care. As one of the most densely populated municipalities in the province, we’re proud to embrace bold, community-centered initiatives—like transforming the historic Mulock Property into our very own Central Park and revitalizing urban corridors to enhance livability and connection.
Our culture is unique and intentionally crafted through collaboration, inclusion, and a shared leadership commitment to creating an environment for extraordinary public service. Our award-winning Leadership Essentials program was designed to provide our leaders with the tools and expectations that are key to an employee experience that is well beyond the ordinary. This “made in Newmarket” initiative earned Newmarket the 2025 CAMA Inspiring Workplace Award.
Under the direction of the Director, Legal & Procurement Services, the Manager, Procurement Services is responsible for the management and implementation of the work and the achievement of the objectives within Procurement Services Department. This position oversees the procurement of all goods, services and construction for all Town departments and facilities, the Newmarket Public Library, Elman Campbell Museum, Newmarket Hydro, and Central York Fire Services.
Salary Range: $116,312 - $145,390
Closes: 10 November 2025 |
|
|
York's Collegium for Public Ethics is holding a panel discussion on Ontario's municipal integrity system, much of which will focus on the Municipal Accountability Act. Ontario’s Municipal Integrity System: Efficacy and Limitations
A Panel Discussion via Zoom on Thursday Nov 6, 2025 from 12:00 --1:30 pm features Suzanne Craig, John Mascarin, and Paul Muldoon. Join via the following link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/6226820306?omn=81728351930
Meeting ID: 622 682 0306 |
|
|
While significant, more than assessing and planning is required for climate change adaptation. Community climate resilience is strengthened when plans are put into action through municipal operations. Check out FCM's Tips for implementing and integrating your climate adaptation plan to for help put your municipal climate adaptation plans into action
|
|
|
OMAA: Connecting CAOs, Strengthening Municipalities You’re receiving this e-mail because you signed up for the OMAA newsletter.
Was this e-mail forwarded to you? Sign up. Connect with us on: |
| |
|
