In This Issue:
- Applications open for AMO’s 2026 Youth Fellowship Program!
- AMO's Work-Learn Institute Municipal Talent Project.
- Consultation: Development Charge deferral to occupancy permits.
- MECP best practices for Source Water Protection Program.
- Seeking re-election or first-time candidate? AMO’s new, free workshop series is for you.
- 2nd Annual Healthy Democracy Forum - Program details.
- AMO Trade & Tariff Forum: Understanding and planning for Ontario’s economic future.
- Understanding your Cybersecurity Risks and How to Respond - October 21.
- 10% discount for AMO members - Catalyst Municipal Cyber Range Program.
- Upcoming Webinar: Cyber Safe Elections.
- Blog: Solutions for Failing Water Infrastructure.
- Unlock incentives & funding for your energy projects.
- Fluorescent lamps phase-out - Is your municipality ready?
- Western University Local Government Awards of Excellence .
- Frameworks for Success - Employer Readiness Course (FOR EMPLOYERS).
- AdvantAge municipal councillors webinar: The Current LTC Environment.
- Careers.
AMO Matters
AMO is seeking applicants for its 2026 Youth Fellowship Program. Share this opportunity with students and youth interested in local government, governance, and the health of our democracy. Through this Fellowship, participants learn about municipal governance and policy while gaining exposure to real-time issues facing Ontario’s municipalities. Applications are due October 30.
AMO is partnering with the University of Waterloo’s Work-Learn Institute to explore how work-integrated learning can better support long-term municipal workforce development. If you have experience overseeing a student placement in a municipal setting, please share your experience working with student co-ops and interns.
Provincial Matters
The Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing is seeking comments on amendments to the Development Charges Act that would allow payment of DCs to be deterred to building permit issuance or first occupancy of the building. Comments are open until October 17.
The Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks is accepting applications to assist municipalities and First Nations communities to develop source water protection action plans. Applications can be submitted until October 31, 2025. Contact SourceProtectionFunding@ontario.ca for more information.
Education Opportunities
Stronger Leaders, Stronger Communities is designed to equip you with the tools, resilience, and confidence to meet the challenges of the political landscape head-on. This workshop series is being offered at no charge in two streams: those considering re-election in 2026 and a second for first-time candidates who want to explore whether elected office is right for them. Full details and registration information here.
The 2026 municipal election is on the horizon. This year’s Healthy Democracy Forum examines the critical issues leaders (present and future) need to consider regarding local engagement and civility. Program information is available here. Click here to register.
Get a reliable assessment of tariff and trade disruptions and identify economic opportunities. Economic and diplomatic consequences will continue for many years, so AMO is assembling members and subject matter experts to plan today for a stronger and more stable Ontario. Join us in discussion on building Ontario’s economic future October 24 at Toronto’s Sheraton Centre. Program information is now available. Click here to register.
Instances and success of cyberattacks on municipalities are increasing – are you prepared? To effectively protect your municipality, elected officials must understand how to best prepare for a cyber incident. This training focuses on understanding potential risk, identify preventative actions, and define your role during an incident. View full Cybersecurity for Municipal Councillors training details and register here.
LAS
The TMU Catalyst Municipal Cyber Range Program is specifically designed to prepare municipal IT staff for real-world cyberattacks. The immersive simulations are led by an experienced cybersecurity trainer, giving participants practical skills they can immediately apply. AMO members receive 10% off with code "AMO10" at registration.
LAS’ Sewer and Water Line Warranty Service partner, SLWC, explains how aging drinking water and wastewater systems present significant challenges for municipalities. The blog paints an opportunity for municipalities to offer optional support for homeowners.
Join us on November 4th, 2025 for a live panel discussion on how municipalities can protect residents and election infrastructure from digital threats. Experts will share practical strategies for citizen education, cybersecurity best practices, and navigating cyber insurance. Register Now.
Has your energy efficient project ever been delayed or deferred due to lack of funding? Check out this free webinar on October 24 to discover how to access thousands of dollars in energy incentives and rebates. Registration is now open.
Starting 1 January 2026, federal regulations will begin phasing out mercury-containing lamps, including fluorescent and HID lighting. How ready is your municipality? Join us for a free webinar on October 29 to learn more. Register here to attend.
Municipal Wire*
Western University’s Local Government Program is seeking nominations for its annual Award of Excellence and Emerging Leaders Award open to anyone who has shown a commitment to delivering outstanding service to their communities.
Looking for tools to support and invest in new hires? Register for OPPI’s Employer Readiness course at no cost to attendees. It includes an AMO supported employer handbook exploring HR best practices for retention and long-term success.
This free AdvantAge webinar on October 14 from 1-2pm will share insights related to long-term care governance and compliance for municipal councillors and their staff.
Careers
Project Manager, Policy Planning - Township of King. Closing Date: October 15, 2025.
GIS and Asset Management Coordinator - Township of Southwold. Closing Date: October 15th, 2025
