At their Annual General Meeting on June 9, 2024, Pelham Regional Councillor Diana Huson was re-elected for a fourth consecutive term to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) Board of Directors, as well as being elected as the vice-chair for the Ontario Caucus.
As a board member, Councillor Huson helps set policy priorities that address the concerns of municipal governments across the country while also representing the priorities of the Niagara Region. The board meets quarterly to develop positions on federal policies impacting local governments in Canada.
Appointment to the FCM board is a highly competitive process with Councillor Huson being successful in winning one of only nine seats across the province. The Councillor’s role as vice-chair for the Ontario Caucus is an important leadership position that provides guidance and direction to colleagues across Ontario.
The Federation of Canadian Municipalities has been the voice of local governments across Canada for over 120 years, playing a crucial role in advocating for municipalities. FCM works to ensure that the needs of the nation’s cities and towns are reflected in federal policies and programs.
Federal decision-makers have a long-standing practice of collaborating with the FCM Board of Directors when making decisions that affect municipalities, including the allocation of direct funding. Councillor Huson’s return to the FCM board will ensure that the Niagara Region continues to have strong representation at the national level when these important decisions are made.
In addition to Councillor Huson’s successful appointment, St. Catharines City Councillor Robin McPherson also won her bid for a seat on the board of directors. Having two representatives from Niagara will help ensure that Niagara will expand its influence on national issues.
Quotes
“On behalf of Regional Council, I want to congratulate Councillor Huson on her fourth consecutive election to the FCM Board of Directors as well as her successful appointment as the vice-chair for the Ontario Caucus. Councillor Huson has a proven track record of being a strong and experienced voice at the table as well as having a positive influence on issues with the federal government. I know that Councillor Huson will continue to be an effective advocate for Niagara’s top priorities” – Regional Chair, Jim Bradley
“I am honored to be appointed to the FCM board for a fourth consecutive term and to be elected as the vice-chair of the Ontario Caucus. This recognition allows me to continue advocating for our region’s needs and to ensure that Niagara has a strong voice in shaping federal policies that impact municipalities across Canada.” – Regional Councillor Diana Huson
