Welcome Everyone to Municipal Affairs, I'm Chris Brown Today we delve into a pressing and disturbing issue within the world of municipal politics: the dark and often dangerous reality of harassment, bullying, and intimidation faced by our local elected officials. On May 16, 2024, Detectives in the Major Crime Section of the Greater Sudbury Police Criminal Investigation Division initiated a criminal harassment investigation after receiving a complaint from a City of Greater Su

Welcome to Municipal Affairs. Today, we're diving into the significant legislative changes shaking up local governance in Alberta. On Thursday, May 23rd, Minister of Municipal Affairs Ric McIver tabled long-awaited amendments to Bill 20, a piece of legislation poised to overhaul local elections, alter the elections act concerning political parties at the municipal level, and modify the Municipal Government Act to grant the provincial cabinet the power to remove or amend munic

Welcome to Municipal Affairs, I'm your host Christopher Brown. The recent introduction of Alberta Bills 18, 20, and 21 has stirred significant discussion and concern among Municipal Leaders not only here in Alberta, but across Canada. Bill 20 has particularly become a focal point of contention, with Alberta Municipalities describing it as a "power grab" that could drastically reshape local governance and community autonomy. This bill has ignited debates over the extent of pro

Welcome to Municipal Affairs. Today we're diving headfirst into a momentous occasion that's making waves across Oxford County. For the very first time in history, all municipalities in Oxford County will proudly raise the rainbow hues of the Pride flag this June. It's a landmark achievement, a beacon of progress, and a powerful symbol of inclusion for our communities. This moment isn't just about raising a flag; it's about raising Oxford County’s voice in solidarity with the

Welcome to Municipal Affairs. In the realm of Municipal Affairs, where governance intersects with the daily lives of citizens, the discussion of a new Cold War holds profound significance. Municipalities, often the frontline of governance, are not immune to the far-reaching implications of global power struggles and technological advancements. So today, we delve into the intricate dynamics of the new Cold War, where the battleground extends far beyond political ideologies to

Welcome to 'Municipal Affairs”, I'm your host, Chris Brown. In this episode, we're diving into the upcoming election for the 3rd Vice President of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM). The FCM, as many of you know, serves as the national voice for municipal governments, advocating for policies and initiatives that address the diverse needs of communities from coast to coast to coast. And with the annual FCM conference just around the corner, all eyes are on the bu

Welcome to a semi-in-person live recording of Municipal Affairs with Chris Brown. Our show is dedicated to speaking with municipal stakeholders from across Canada about the issues affecting Municipalities of all sizes. Firstly I want to apologize for not being with you in person today. I appreciated the team at the MMA for working behind the scenes to ensure we were still able to participate virtually with you at this years 2024 Leadership Summit. We are grateful to partner w

Welcome to Municipal Affairs, I’m your host Christopher Brown. Today, we delve into a crucial aspect of governance and fiscal responsibility: municipal asset management. As our communities evolve and infrastructures age, the effective management of municipal assets has emerged as a pivotal concern for municipalities across Canada. Asset management, once a niche concept, has now taken centre stage in the strategic planning of local governments. It encompasses a systematic appr

Welcome to "Municipal Affairs," I'm your host, Chris Brown. In this episode, we are continuing our journey into Bill 20. Bill 20 emerges as a harbinger of significant change, poised to reshape the intricate relationship between local and provincial powers. Alberta Municipalities, the collective voice representing the province's cities, towns, and villages, has raised a red flag on this proposed legislation. In a recent press conference, they voiced deep concerns echoing throu