Record-breaking attendance is anticipated as numerous municipal representatives convene in Ottawa for the annual conference organized by the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) this week. Local leaders are set to advocate for consistent funding and more support in addressing pressing issues like homelessness and deteriorating infrastructure.
The event brings together delegates from urban, suburban, and rural areas to engage in policy discussions and hold direct meetings with provincial government officials. Taking place from Sunday to Wednesday, this year’s conference is hosted at Ottawa’s Rogers Centre, with Premier Doug Ford scheduled to deliver a keynote address on Monday.
AMO is emphasizing the mounting challenges municipalities encounter in delivering services and enhancing infrastructure. Outgoing AMO president Robin Jones emphasized the need for sustained infrastructure funding for housing and economic development, alongside advocating for comprehensive funding of health and social services under provincial jurisdiction.
Municipalities have shouldered numerous additional expenses in recent times, primarily relying on property taxes to fund these obligations. AMO projects a requirement of over $250 billion in infrastructure investments over the next decade to accommodate growth, address climate change, and maintain the province’s aging roads, water systems, and other vital assets.
Delegates are urging for increased provincial allocations for community housing, mental health, and addiction services, estimating a need for $11 billion over the next ten years to eradicate chronic homelessness. Against the backdrop of an election year, this year’s conference adds a political dimension as mayors and councilors engage with the public and gear up for the upcoming elections in October.
Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe is also slated to address attendees on Monday morning, preceding Premier Ford. Jones, transitioning leadership to Ottawa Coun. Riley Brockington, will also deliver remarks during the event.
