The Province released its latest Economic Outlook and Fiscal Review which is intended to "protect Ontario by building a more competitive, resilient and self-reliant economy by cutting red tape, investing in infrastructure, supporting workers, improving services and making life more affordable." The section Helping Municipalities and Communities Build Ontario notes that the government has continued to support municipalities across the province by:
• Investing an additional $1.6 billion through the Municipal Housing Infrastructure Program (MHIP) to speed up construction on homes and critical infrastructure, nearly doubling the total investment to $4 billion.
• Enhancing the Ontario Municipal Partnership Fund (OMPF) through an increase to the program of $100 million over two years ($50 million per year) and bringing the total funding envelope to $600 million annually.
• Increasing annual funding for Connecting Links from $30 million to $45 million, to support municipalities in addressing critical road or bridge improvement needs to extend the life cycle of their assets and continue with local developments.
The government also plans to introduce legislation that will have significant implications for OMERS governance. These changes are outlined in the Final Report on the 2025 OMERS Governance Review.
Other key stats: Deficit = $13.5 billion. Employment: Growth = 0.9 per cent. Housing Starts = 64,300 (decline from 74,600 units in 2024)
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Workshop Videos Now Available |
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When floodwaters rise, so does the need for strong leadership. Major flood and rainfall events can cause extensive damage and demand fast, coordinated action to protect lives, property, and infrastructure.
Go to our YouTube Channel to check out this presentation from Conservation Ontario General Manager Angela Coleman as she shares lessons learned from recent flood events — including insights on emergency management, legal responsibilities, and the operational pressures facing conservation authorities today. Members can now access all videos in the Library. Sign in to the Members Area ? Library ? Workshop Presentations to view. |
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And for you very early birds...
You can now register and reserve your room for the Spring Workshop today.
Join us May 20–22, 2026, at the spectacular JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort & Spa for the 2026 Spring Workshop. This signature event blends inspiring keynote speakers, practical educational sessions, quick hits, and engaging sponsored discussions with valuable networking and social opportunities—all designed to equip CAOs, Deputy CAOs, and aspiring municipal leaders with the insights and tools to lead more effectively. On Thursday evening we’ll set sail on an elegant Muskoka Steamship for a dinner cruise across the scenic lakes. Enjoy fine dining, panoramic views, and relaxed conversation in a setting that fosters connection and inspiration. |
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There was a movie a while back that had the famous line "show me the money!" I always think of that line when I read corporate annual, ESG, or budget reports. Municipal CAOs understand this perhaps better than anyone. The budget isn’t merely a spreadsheet of numbers; it’s a public confession. It tells the story of what an organization truly believes, not just what it claims to believe. As Aristotle reminded us, “We are what we repeatedly do.” If that’s true of individuals, it’s equally true of institutions. A municipality can issue press releases about innovation, sustainability, or community well-being, but the ledger reveals whether those ideals are aspiration or reality. The dollars assigned to line items trace the moral outline of our collective priorities. For a CAO, that’s the quiet power of budget season. It’s not just about balancing the books or meeting statutory timelines. It’s an opportunity to align rhetoric with reality to ensure that expenditures map onto the community’s declared vision.
Budgets, when crafted with integrity, become instruments of trust. They reassure residents that government is paying attention and that it sees both the potholes in front of their houses and the children walking the sidewalks to school.
John Stuart Mill argued, “The worth of a state, in the long run, is the worth of the individuals composing it.” By extension, the worth of a municipality’s budget is measured not only in balance sheets, but in how faithfully it mirrors the needs and hopes of its people.
So as you put together your next budget, consider this your philosophical audit. The numbers are not abstractions but are the living record of your municipality’s intentions. |
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Brock Deputy CAO Fernando Lamanna is seeking examples of Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) between municipalities and their Library Boards. In particular, he’s interested in agreements that outline services provided by the municipality, as well as the division of operating and capital costs.
If you have a sample or resource to share, please connect with Fernando using the email button below. Your insights will be greatly appreciated! |
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CAO Research Report Now Available | |
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In this insightful study, Thomas Thayer examines the evolving role of the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) in Ontario municipalities. His research explores a central question: What educational credentials and career experiences define today’s CAOs across the province? The findings reveal that while a generalist CAO often proves most effective in many municipal settings, a specialist CAO may excel in larger or more complex organizations—particularly where a strong senior management team can independently manage specialized projects, as illustrated in Table 12.
An outstanding contribution to the municipal management field, this paper provides a detailed and data-driven portrait of Ontario’s current CAO landscape and offers valuable insights for aspiring and established municipal leaders alike. |
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Director of Financial Services / Treasurer |
Oxford County (Woodstock, ON) |
Located in the heart of southwestern Ontario at the crossroads of Highways 401 and 403, Oxford County has a population of approximately 130,000 people across eight area municipalities that are “growing stronger together.”
Oxford County Council is made up of the mayors of each of the area municipalities plus an additional two councillors elected to the City of Woodstock as city/county councillors.
Situated in one of Ontario’s richest areas for farmland, agriculture is a key industry that is driving innovation in sustainable industries and diversifying the local economy. Oxford County offers a thriving local arts, culture and culinary community, as well as conservation parks, natural areas and more than 100 kilometres of scenic trails.
The ideal candidate will be a progressive, strategic, and collaborative leader, with a demonstrated record of achieving results and leading people. As a member of the County’s senior leadership team, you will also be responsible for strategic organizational leadership, continuous improvement and broadly supporting all County programs and services.
See attached Job Profile for more specific details about the role.
What we offer Flexible Work Arrangements, including hybrid work Comprehensive health and dental benefits plan effective immediately OMERS defined benefit pension plan effective immediately Competitive Vacation and Sick Leave policies Professional development and tuition reimbursement opportunities
2025 Salary Range: $163,199.40 to $204,003.80 annually
Closes: 21 November 2025.
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Director of Finance / Treasurer |
Municipality of Thames Centre (Dorchester, ON) |
Thames Centre, nestled in the heart of southwestern Ontario, is a vibrant community on the eastern edge of Middlesex County and the City of London. Our unique mix of urban and rural living fosters strong community connections, top-notch services, and responsible leadership. Residents enjoy breathtaking natural landscapes, open spaces, and access to state-of-the-art recreation facilities, and outstanding local amenities. Thames Centre has been recognized as one of the Best Places to Work in Southwestern Ontario.
Job Description
The Director of Financial Services/Treasurer shall be responsible and accountable to the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) for the general management of the administration and affairs of the Finance Department and Asset Management. The Director acts as the municipal officer in charge of technical and administrative policy for the Finance Department, including accounting and taxation. The Director serves as the Treasurer for the Municipality and is requested to adhere to the statutory requirements of the Municipal Act. Responsibilities: Supervise the non-union departmental staff responsible for accounting, taxation services, and Asset Management. Act as the Municipal Treasurer, as delegated and appointed by the Council Support the strategic directions and policies of the Municipality and ensure uniformity in creating and implementing municipal-wide policies and procedures through participation and involvement in the Senior Management Team (SMT). Assume individual and collective responsibility for corporate-wide initiatives and cross-departmental projects, as assigned Leads and directs the strategic, general and financial management and day-to-day administration of the Finance Department Prepares reports/recommendations and attends Council, Council/Committee, community stakeholder and other public meetings as required; makes presentations and provides advice/guidance on financial and funding matters, procurement and strategies, emerging trends and significant new/pending legislation and regulatory guidelines affecting the Municipality as it relates to the portfolio.
Develops and recommends fiscal strategy, including providing strategic advice to Council and staff on budget and funding alternatives, financial planning, potential revenue opportunities, leading the development and update of user fee and development charges by-laws, funds investment, recommendation and institution of reserve and reserve fund accounts, etc. Coordinate the Municipality’s Asset Management Program and is responsible for developing related accounting policies and procedures and providing functional support to the CAO and members of the Senior Management Team Directs and oversees the preparation of corporate operating and capital budgets and forecasts and overall budget presentation to Council; implements appropriate performance measures/metrics and monitors administration of approved budgets, including authorization of expenditures and accounts. Coordinates and oversees the preparation of year-end financial statements and reporting requirements to the Province and community Performs the statutory duties of Treasurer under the Municipal Act, including assuring the integrity of financial practices and associated reporting/banking/investment and reserves/funds administration Oversees the property taxation, utility billing, payroll, accounting, and asset management functions, ensuring all legislative, regulatory and reporting requirements are met, that appropriate cross-functional and backup contingencies are in place, and that taxpayers, customers, vendors and staff are dealt with in a well-informed and customer-first service manner.
What Thames Centre has to offer
A competitive salary ranging between $136,390 to $153,509 for 2025 with a 35-hour work week. Flex-time opportunities. Vacation-time entitlement recognizing previous years of service. Comprehensive benefits package, along with eligibility to enroll in OMERS pension plan. A supportive and collaborative work environment
Closes: 1 December 2025 |
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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, plus Other duties and responsibilities as assigned.
Salary Range: $171.808.00 - $208,990.60 (2025 Rate) Closes: 17 November 2025 |
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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. |
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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.
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IPAC Offering free AI Skills Webinars. Dates: November 19, 26, and December 3, 2025
Location: Virtual (Online via Microsoft Teams Platform) Cost: Free for Canadian public servants Three 90-minute training workshops Microsoft AI Skills credential digital badge (per session) Certificate of learning upon completion of all workshops Expert-led instruction from Microsoft, KPMG, and IPAC teams. |
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5 Strategies for Reimagining Resident Engagement Through AI - Insights from ICMA 2025
This white paper explores how government agencies can build trust with every resident by adopting AI-driven chat solutions, detailing critical approaches and original insights from the ICMA 2025 Conference. Featuring thought leadership from Citibot and the City of Lancaster, California, it unpacks how AI and multilingual chat platforms overcome communication barriers, streamline service delivery, and position agencies for future growth.
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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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