The Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) is the national voice of Canadian municipal governments, dedicated to improving the quality of life in all communities by promoting strong, effective, and accountable municipal governments. FCM advocates for municipalities to ensure their citizens’ needs are reflected in federal policies and programs. Members include Canada’s largest cities, small urban and rural communities.
The president and vice-presidents of FCM are elected by member municipalities and serve on the Executive Committee.
As the national voice of local government, FCM has access to federal decision-making processes and is consulted by the federal government on many issues. FCM reinforces and advances Toronto’s position regarding the need for federal revenue sharing and a national policy agenda for urban issues. The City of Toronto is a long-standing member of FCM and is its largest member.
FCM also contributes funding through programs such as the Green Municipal Fund, Municipalities for Climate Innovation Program and the Municipal Asset Management Program.
City Council has appointed Councillor Paul Ainslie and Councillor James Pasternak as Toronto’s representatives on the FCM Board of Directors for the 2023-24 term.
The FCM Board of Directors meets quarterly.
The FCM Board of Directors annually establishes standing committees and forums to advance issues of interest to FCM members, facilitate debate, and provide the FCM Board with recommendations on priority policy and program issues. These committees are comprised of both Board members and other municipal elected officials. Committee appointments are based on municipal preferences and experience, as well as the need to balance regional, community size and gender representation on each committee.
For the 2022-2023 term, Toronto City Councillors sit on the following standing committees and forums:
2023 Annual Conference
The City of Toronto is proud to be the Host City for the 2023 Federation of Canadian Municipalities Conference, taking place on May 25-28, 2023. The Conference will be held at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, with various Host City events and tours taking place across the city.
The 2023 FCM Conference is an opportunity for municipalities to work together on important issues and to ensure there is action from other governments to support, protect and benefit local communities. It is an opportunity for municipal officials across Canada to share learnings, exchange new and innovative ideas, and connect with leaders on our country’s future.
As one of North America’s most dynamic cities, Toronto offers a stimulating and enriching range of experiences for any visitor. The 2023 Conference will also provide opportunities for delegates to explore and experience Toronto – from our vibrant neighbourhoods, rich music and arts scene, and international cuisine, to our beautiful parks, trails, and cultural spaces.
The City of Toronto is also a member of FCM’s Big City Mayors’ Caucus (BCMC) , a national body representing 23 of the largest cities in Canada. BCMC offers a forum for policy development on a range of issues affecting Canada’s largest centres. Through FCM, BCMC partners with the federal government in nation-building through city-building.
Intergovernmental & Agency Relations within the City Manager’s Office provides logistical and policy support for Toronto’s involvement in FCM.
For more information, please contact Karen Jones, A/Director, Intergovernmental and Agency Relations at karen.jones@toronto.ca or 416-397-4429.