Reflections from the 2025 AMO Conference
This week, I had the privilege of attending the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) Conference here in Ottawa. This annual gathering brings together municipalities from across the province and is always a highlight for me. While the presentations and policy discussions are valuable, I find the informal conversations with municipal leaders, provincial representatives, and industry experts just as important for shaping ideas and solutions. These exchanges often spark some of the most practical and innovative ideas for our communities.
One of the most pressing issues I raised was the financial burden of Ontario’s Excess Soil Regulations. In meetings with Minister McCarthy and MPP George Darouze, I highlighted how these rules are costing taxpayers upwards of tens of millions every year, driving up the cost of construction projects, and even impacting ditch maintenance. Our focus was clear: cut unnecessary red tape, save tax dollars, and ensure Ottawa’s critical infrastructure projects move forward with minimal delays.
The role of new technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), in improving municipal services was a key theme at the AMO conference. Municipalities are exploring how to embrace AI to deliver faster, more efficient services for residents. The challenge lies in balancing the need for digital infrastructure with other pressing priorities like roads, transit, and housing.
AI can be used in several direct ways to enhance municipal operations:
Waste Management: AI can optimize waste collection routes, reducing fuel consumption and operational costs. It can also analyze data from smart bins to predict fill levels and schedule pickups more efficiently.
Traffic Management: By analyzing real-time traffic data, AI can adjust signal timings to improve traffic flow, reduce congestion, and lower vehicle emissions.
Public Safety: AI-powered systems can analyze security footage to quickly detect and flag unusual activity or emergency situations, helping first responders act more swiftly.
Permitting and Licensing: AI can automate parts of the application review process for permits and licenses, speeding up approvals and reducing administrative burdens for both staff and residents.
Customer Service: Municipalities can use AI-powered chatbots to answer common resident questions about services, hours of operation, or by-laws, providing instant support and freeing up staff for more complex issues.
Throughout the week, I had the opportunity to connect with representatives from cities both large and small. Despite our differences, many of us face similar challenges, whether it’s housing supply, infrastructure renewal, or navigating complex intergovernmental systems. By exchanging lessons learned, debating best practices, and identifying common priorities, we strengthen our collective ability to deliver for residents across Ontario.
I left the AMO Conference encouraged, with a notebook full of fresh ideas. My commitment to you remains the same: focusing on our priorities, maintaining affordability, and ensuring every dollar is used wisely. With the innovative strategies and perspectives gained at AMO, I look forward to applying these lessons right here in our Ward to build a stronger, more sustainable future for our communities.