the Observer

25 June 2026

Provincial Matters

 

Ontario Reaches Historic First Nations Equity Partnership to Build the G7’s First Small Modular Reactors  

Agreement marks the first First Nations equity investment in a nuclear energy project in Canadian history

 

"Today, our Nations are taking an historic step forward. Through this investment, we are not only creating opportunities for our own communities – we are helping advance a project that will play an important role in meeting Ontario and Canada’s growing energy needs. This investment demonstrates what is possible when First Nations are able to participate meaningfully in projects taking place within their territories, not only as rights holders, but as investors, partners, and participants in the long-term success of the project." Chiefs of the Williams Treaties First Nations

Civic Ontario Events 

Registration is now open for the Executive Exchange (Fall Workshop) taking place at the Westin Trillium House Blue Mountain from 7-9 October. 

 

Highlights:

  • Wed night The Motivation Equation keynote by Leadership and Engagement Expert Jennifer Barroll
  • Influence the site selection process for Canada’s second deep geological repository for radioactive waste.
  • Two Rapid Fire Sessions, plenaries on the big issues, networking events, and more. 
  • (optional) Thursday Evening Blue Mountain Village Restaurant Hop.

You can book your room directly with the hotel via: Reservation-Link

Register Here
 

A reminder that presentations and videos from the Spring Workshop are now available in the Member Library. 

Click on the Workshop Presentations tab after logging in as a Member to access.

Rebrand Update 

We are gearing up for the launch of our new website and social media channels. The logo and tagline above will serve as a unifying visual anchor across all platforms. It reflects not only who we are as an organization, but how we connect, collaborate, and communicate with our members and partners. This shared identity will guide how Civic Ontario shows up digitally—clear, coordinated, and focused on collective impact.

 

The Civic Ontario symbol is formed by two interconnected arrows converging at a common centre. Together, they represent the exchange of perspectives, shared leadership, and collective action that strengthen communities across Ontario. Moving in different directions while remaining connected, the arrows reflect the diverse organizations and leaders who contribute to civic life. Their intersection symbolizes alignment around common challenges, opportunities, and outcomes. The result is a simple, dynamic expression of connection, progress, and lasting impact.

Member News

Rob Atkinson named new Fire Chief of the Town of Saugeen Shores.

 

Brockville City Manager Sandra MacDonald says new Buy Ontario rules create an “onerous” and more costly process.

 

Mike Keiley appointed Deputy Fire Chief of Kingston Fire and Rescue.  

 

 

 

 

Bursary Now Open 

Thanks to support from our partners AMO and ROMA, the Maureen McCauley Bursary now offers three $5,000 bursaries annually to support the education of future municipal government leaders.

 

The opportunity for this Bursary is available to any student residing in Ontario who in enrolled in a post secondary program that has the potential to lead to a municipal government career.

 

Applicants must submit the application form before end of day 24 September 2026. The Awards Committee will select three winners and their videos will be aired during the Awards Dinner at our Executive Exchange event on 7 October 2026. 

Bursary Application Form

Job Board

CAO / Deputy Clerk

Township of Algonquin Highlands

The Township of Algonquin Highlands is seeking an experienced, collaborative, and community-focused leader to serve as its next Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) / Deputy Clerk. Located in the heart of Ontario’s cottage country, Algonquin Highlands is a vibrant and growing municipality known for its exceptional natural environment, strong sense of community, entrepreneurial spirit, and outstanding quality of life. Reporting directly to Mayor and Council, the CAO is responsible for leading the municipality’s administrative operations, providing strategic advice to Council, overseeing financial and organizational management, and ensuring the effective delivery of municipal services. 

Key Responsibilities
• Provide strategic leadership and advice to Council on municipal operations, governance, policy, financial planning, and organizational effectiveness
• Lead and support the Township’s senior management team and organizational culture
• Ensure effective implementation of Council priorities and strategic initiatives
• Oversee budgeting, financial planning, procurement, and long-term asset management
• Foster positive working relationships with residents, businesses, community groups, County of Haliburton, neighbouring municipalities, and provincial agencies
• Ensure compliance with municipal legislation, policies, and governance best practices 

Salary Range: $152,498 - 171,681.

Closes: 29 June 2026, 3 p.m.

More Info

Picks

 

When Councils Drift Off Course: Getting Governance Back on Track  

Every council faces difficult moments. Disagreements happen. Emotions rise. Priorities compete for attention. Public pressure can intensify quickly, especially in smaller communities where decisions feel personal and can be highly visible. The real test of a Council is not whether conflict occurs, but whether the Councillors can recognize when they are drifting off course and act to find their collective way back.

 

 

Planetizen has launched a new series called Fisticuffs, where planners go head to head and make their case for or against the most polarizing topics in planning. The first issue is on whether free transit is a worthwhile pursuit.

 

Joshua Woods makes the argument for fare-free transit in 

When the barrier to entry drops to zero, magic can happen.

 

while Denis Agar counters that If a terrible bus becomes free, will it truly free you?

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