Local Governance Orientation Program 2026

This course provides a foundational understanding of local government by exploring its key purposes and clarifying the roles of councils and administrative staff. Participants will learn the difference between governance and administration and examine what makes an effective council–administration relationship. The course also emphasizes the importance of teamwork and highlights best practices to support effective and accountable leadership. The course will also explain the process for appointing a deputy mayor and a member of council if the mayor and deputy mayor are not available or the positions are vacant.

For more detailed information, review the learning outcomes document (PDF 414 KB).

View the presentation, Roles and Responsibilities of Elected Officials and Staff (PDF 737 KB).

This course provides an overview of ethical standards and accountability in local government, focusing on codes of conduct and conflict of interest requirements. Participants will explore the purpose and key components of a code of conduct, recognize harassment and bullying behaviours, and identify how these standards are applied in practice. The course also examines what constitutes a conflict of interest in the local government context and outlines the steps to take when a conflict of interest arises.

For more detailed information, review the learning outcomes document (PDF 414 KB).

View the presentation, Code of Conduct and Conflict of Interest (PDF 1.1 MB).

This course introduces the fundamentals of municipal finance, including the budgeting process and the roles of councils in reviewing and approving budgets and general financial oversight. Participants will hear about important financial terminology, how to interpret basic financial information, and how local tax rates are determined. The course also covers ongoing financial reporting practices and annual auditing requirements, facilitating participants' understanding of how financial accountability is maintained.

For more detailed information, review the learning outcomes document (PDF 414 KB).

View the presentation , Local Government Finances (PDF 1.5 MB).

This course introduces the fundamentals of effective council meetings, including protocols, procedures, and decorum, as well as the importance of a local government’s procedural by-law. Participants will explore the types of decisions made at regular meetings, explore how and when to apply proper motion and voting processes, and become familiar with key meeting terminology. The course also examines the role of the Chair in facilitating inclusive, respectful, and orderly discussions, along with strategies to maintain decorum. In addition, participants will review how public input can be incorporated into meetings and discuss the circumstances under which meetings may be closed to the public.

For more detailed information, review the learning outcomes document (PDF 414 KB).

View the presentation, Local Government Meeting Procedures (PDF 1.8 MB).

This course provides an overview of the Right to Information and Protection of Personal Information Act (RTIPPA) and its application within the local government context. Participants will explore key terminology, the importance of effective records management, and how to distinguish between public and protected information. The course also outlines legislated timelines for responding to information requests and identifies which types of information may be withheld.

For more detailed information, review the learning outcomes document (PDF 414 KB).

View the presentation, Right to Information and Protection of Privacy Act (RTIPPA) Requirements (PDF 1.5 MB).

This course provides an overview of Regional Service Commissions (RSCs), including why they were established, their role within the local government system, and their legislated mandates (i.e., the services and functions they provide, as well the flexibility to offer additional services). Participants will explore the structure and governance of RSCs, including the roles of board members and how RSCs are funded. The course also examines the benefits and challenges of regional collaboration, presenting practical strategies and ideas to strengthen dialogue and cooperation among communities. Examples of collaborative initiatives facilitated by the RSCs that are benefitting their member communities will also be shared.

For more detailed information, review the learning outcomes document (PDF 414 KB).

View the presentation, Regional Service Commissions and Collaboration (PDF 1.8 MB).

This course provides an overview of the Rural District model, including its structure and how it functions within the broader local governance system. Participants will explore the roles and responsibilities of the rural district advisory committee, its Chair, and the rural district manager. The course also reviews how rural districts are represented on Regional Service Commission (RSC) boards, and the distinction between the advisory role of rural district committees and the decision-making authority of local government councils.

For more detailed information, review the learning outcomes document (PDF 414 KB).

View the presentation, The Rural District Structure (PDF 898 KB).

View the presentation, Guidelines From the Code of Conduct (PDF 1 MB).

This course introduces the financial framework of rural districts, including the services they receive and the organizations responsible for delivering them. Participants will learn key financial terminology, explore the annual budget development process, and review the main components of a rural district budget, including fixed and variable costs. The course also highlights the role of the rural district advisory committee in the budgeting process.

For more detailed information, review the learning outcomes document (PDF 414 KB).

View the presentation, Rural District services and Financial Matters (PDF 1.86 MB).

This course provides an overview of how rural district advisory committee meetings are conducted, including the guidelines and protocols that govern them. Participants will explore what is typically discussed in meetings, how agendas are developed, and the roles and responsibilities of the rural district manager in supporting the meeting process. The course also examines the role of the Chair in facilitating effective meetings, including an introduction to basic procedures and rules that promote organized, respectful, and productive discussions.

For more detailed information, review the learning outcomes document (PDF 414 KB).

View the presentation, Rural District Advisory Committee Meetings (PDF 957 KB).