What a great time spent at the Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) Annual Conference in Toronto! It was energizing to connect with my rural council colleagues as well as political leaders from rural municipalities across Ontario, sharing stories, challenges, and ideas while learning from one another.

The days were packed with productivity, starting with a workshop on managing demand for services, followed by a seminar on rural road safety. At the trade show I found innovative tools and solutions being developed to support communities – including AI and emergency preparedness supports. The session also included a keynote address by journalist Chantal Hébert, offering valuable insight and perspective on Canada’s political landscape. On day two, I took part in delegations with Provincial Ministers to advocate for protections on rural land use and to ensure infrastructure investments precede development.

For those who may not be familiar, the Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) is the rural voice of the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO). ROMA works to advocate for rural and northern municipalities, ensure their priorities are heard at Queen’s Park, and bring municipal leaders together each year to share best practices, learn from experts, and discuss policy solutions that strengthen local communities.

Conferences like ROMA are a valuable opportunity to step back, learn what’s working in other communities, and bring home new ideas and approaches that can help us plan ahead and better support residents here. I’m thankful for the opportunity to represent our community, connect with colleagues from across Ontario, and return with insights and contacts that will help inform our work in the months ahead.