Municipal Affairs

Cross Border Network
  • 5.0 (2)
  • POLITICS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

From the bustling streets of Vancouver to the serene coastlines of the Maritimes, and all the way up north to the breathtaking landscapes of the Arctic, we're embarking on an expedition that will connect us, inform us, and empower us. This isn't just another show; it's your portal into the pulse of your local community and every community across our vast and diverse country.

  1. Catching Up With SARM President Bill Huber

    1D AGO

    Catching Up With SARM President Bill Huber

    In rural Saskatchewan, the issues facing municipalities don’t slow down — and neither does the advocacy happening behind the scenes. From concerns around the use of strychnine on farms, to the growing conversation around critical minerals and resource development, to an upcoming trip to Ottawa to bring Saskatchewan priorities directly to the national stage, the Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities has been active on many fronts. These are issues that touch agriculture, economic development, public safety, and the long-term sustainability of rural communities — and they’re shaping the conversations municipalities are having as they head into the busy summer season. We caught up with Bill Huber to discuss the past month, where rural municipalities across Saskatchewan are focusing their attention, the advocacy work happening across the province and country, and what comes next. This is Municipal Affairs. ------ This episode of Municipal Affairs was sponsored by: Johnson Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy https://www.schoolofpublicpolicy.sk.ca/ ------ Support The Show Today: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/support-the-show Join The Show: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/be-part-of-the-show  ------ Listen To The Show: Apple: https://apple.co/41p5I2I Spotify: https://bit.ly/3tkvb0E  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/crossborderinterviewswithchrisbrown ------ Follow Us On Social Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crossborderpodcast/ Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/crossbordernetwork.bsky.social  Threads: https://www.threads.net/@crossborderpodcast  Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/CrossBorderInterviews/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/crossborderinterviews/  Website: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/ Municipal Affairs is Part of The Cross Border Network ©2026

    19 min
  2. One on One with Saskatchewan NDP Leader Carla Beck

    4D AGO

    One on One with Saskatchewan NDP Leader Carla Beck

    The Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association’s annual convention has come to a close, bringing together municipal leaders from across the province for four days of discussion, collaboration, and planning for the future. From large cities to small towns, the focus remained on building stronger, more resilient communities—while giving delegates the opportunity to connect, share ideas, and address the challenges they face on the ground. Among those in attendance was Carla Beck, who spent time at the convention engaging with municipal leaders and outlining her party’s vision for Saskatchewan’s future—particularly when it comes to power generation. In her address, Beck highlighted the NDP’s Grid and Growth plan, describing it as an ambitious strategy aimed at transforming the province’s energy landscape.  She says the plan could generate $33 billion in economic activity, while providing the stability needed to attract new investment across Saskatchewan. Following her speech, we caught up with Beck to dig deeper into that plan, and to get her perspective on the issues we’ve been hearing from municipal leaders across the province. That conversation—coming ------ This episode of Municipal Affairs was sponsored by: Johnson Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy https://www.schoolofpublicpolicy.sk.ca/ ------ Support The Show Today: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/support-the-show Join The Show: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/be-part-of-the-show  ------ Listen To The Show: Apple: https://apple.co/41p5I2I Spotify: https://bit.ly/3tkvb0E  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/crossborderinterviewswithchrisbrown ------ Follow Us On Social Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crossborderpodcast/ Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/crossbordernetwork.bsky.social  Threads: https://www.threads.net/@crossborderpodcast  Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/CrossBorderInterviews/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/crossborderinterviews/  Website: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/ Municipal Affairs is Part of The Cross Border Network ©2026

    22 min
  3. FCM and ABMUNIS Join SUMA Convention

    6D AGO

    FCM and ABMUNIS Join SUMA Convention

    The Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association’s annual convention has come to a close, wrapping up four days of conversation, collaboration, and forward-looking planning in Regina. Municipal leaders from across the province came together with a shared goal—finding ways to strengthen communities of every size.  From infrastructure and funding to healthcare and regional cooperation, the discussions reflected the challenges many municipalities continue to navigate, and the importance of working together to address them. The convention also welcomed voices from beyond Saskatchewan.  Tim Tierney, Vice President of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, was on the ground speaking with local leaders about how national advocacy can support priorities identified here at home. And from neighbouring Alberta, Debra Reid-Mickler, Vice President of Alberta Municipalities, joined the conversation—highlighting how many of the issues being discussed in Saskatchewan are strikingly similar to those facing municipalities across provincial borders. ------ This episode of Municipal Affairs was sponsored by: Johnson Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy https://www.schoolofpublicpolicy.sk.ca/ ------ Support The Show Today: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/support-the-show Join The Show: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/be-part-of-the-show  ------ Listen To The Show: Apple: https://apple.co/41p5I2I Spotify: https://bit.ly/3tkvb0E  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/crossborderinterviewswithchrisbrown ------ Follow Us On Social Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crossborderpodcast/ Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/crossbordernetwork.bsky.social  Threads: https://www.threads.net/@crossborderpodcast  Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/CrossBorderInterviews/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/crossborderinterviews/  Website: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/ Municipal Affairs is Part of The Cross Border Network ©2026

    21 min
  4. SUMA Gathers in Regina For Convention

    6D AGO

    SUMA Gathers in Regina For Convention

    The Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association’s annual convention has wrapped up, closing out four days of discussion, debate, and collaboration among municipal leaders from across the province. From larger urban centres to smaller communities, the focus this year was clear—working together to build stronger, more sustainable municipalities for the future.  The convention once again provided a valuable space for delegates to connect, share ideas, and tackle the challenges they have in common. Key issues on the agenda included infrastructure needs, provincial funding, regional cooperation, the long-term viability of smaller communities, and access to healthcare—topics that continue to shape conversations in council chambers across Saskatchewan. Following the convention, we spoke with SUMA President Randy Goulden about her takeaways from this year’s gathering, the direction members have set through newly passed policies, and what lies ahead as the organization reaches the halfway point of its 2024 to 2028 mandate.  We also asked about the overall mood among municipal leaders as they look to the future. That conversation—coming up next on Municipal Affairs. ------ This episode of Municipal Affairs was sponsored by: Johnson Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy https://www.schoolofpublicpolicy.sk.ca/ ------ Support The Show Today: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/support-the-show Join The Show: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/be-part-of-the-show  ------ Listen To The Show: Apple: https://apple.co/41p5I2I Spotify: https://bit.ly/3tkvb0E  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/crossborderinterviewswithchrisbrown ------ Follow Us On Social Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crossborderpodcast/ Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/crossbordernetwork.bsky.social  Threads: https://www.threads.net/@crossborderpodcast  Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/CrossBorderInterviews/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/crossborderinterviews/  Website: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/ Municipal Affairs is Part of The Cross Border Network ©2026

    29 min
  5. How Municipalities Got The Federal Gas Tax Fund

    APR 20

    How Municipalities Got The Federal Gas Tax Fund

    For communities across Canada, reliable infrastructure isn’t just a priority—it’s essential.  And for more than two decades, one federal program has quietly helped make that possible. The federal Gas Tax Fund—now known as the Canada Community-Building Fund—delivers over $2 billion every year to more than 3,600 municipalities, supporting roughly 4,000 infrastructure projects annually. From public transit and roads to clean water and community spaces, it provides predictable, long-term funding that communities can count on. What makes this fund unique is its flexibility. Municipalities can pool, bank, and even borrow against it—empowering local governments to plan ahead and invest in the priorities that matter most to their residents. Originally launched in 2005 as a five-year, $5 billion initiative, the program has since grown into a permanent and indexed funding stream, delivering more than $26 billion between 2014 and 2024 alone. It’s become the backbone of federal infrastructure support for communities of all sizes. But how did it all begin? How did a task force under former Prime Minister Jean Chrétien evolve into one of the most impactful municipal funding models in the country? And how did municipalities secure a program they now describe as a turning point in how the federal government engages with the local level? With just over a month until delegates gather in Edmonton for the Federation of Canadian Municipalities Annual Conference, we’re taking a closer look at the origins of this transformative fund—and the people behind it. To help answer those questions, we’re honoured to welcome someone who played a pivotal role in its creation: the Honourable Judy Sgro. Earlier in her career, as Chair of the Prime Minister’s Task Force on Urban Issues, she helped shape the policy that led to the national gas tax rebate—laying the groundwork for what would become today’s Community-Building Fund. Before entering federal politics in 1999, she served on the first amalgamated council of Toronto, and previously as a councillor for the City of North York and at the metropolitan level—bringing decades of municipal experience to the national stage. Today, we sit down with her to explore how it all came together—and what it means for the future of communities across Canada.------ Support The Show Today: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/support-the-show Join The Show: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/be-part-of-the-show  ------ Listen To The Show: Apple: https://apple.co/41p5I2I Spotify: https://bit.ly/3tkvb0E  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/crossborderinterviewswithchrisbrown ------ Follow Us On Social Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crossborderpodcast/ Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/crossbordernetwork.bsky.social  Threads: https://www.threads.net/@crossborderpodcast  Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/CrossBorderInterviews/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/crossborderinterviews/  Website: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/ Municipal Affairs is Part of The Cross Border Network ©2026

    33 min
  6. RMED and Manitoba: Leadership in Rural Growth

    APR 17

    RMED and Manitoba: Leadership in Rural Growth

    Manitoba’s economic future doesn’t begin in boardrooms or big city towers—it begins in its communities. Across rural Manitoba, local leaders, businesses, and municipalities are shaping the province’s economic story in real time. From main streets to manufacturing floors, from agricultural innovation to emerging tourism opportunities, the strength of Manitoba’s economy is deeply connected to the strength of its regions. That’s where the Rural Manitoba Economic Development Corporation—RMED—plays a critical role. Working in collaboration with Manitoba Economic Development, Investment, Trade and Natural Resources, and alongside partners like Economic Development Winnipeg, RMED helps ensure that communities south of the 53rd parallel—outside the capital region—are not only included in the province’s economic vision, but actively driving it forward. Their work is focused and practical: helping municipalities build capacity, connecting businesses to opportunities, navigating government programs, and making sure rural voices are part of the broader economic conversation. It’s about creating the conditions for job growth, attracting private investment, expanding trade and export potential, and advancing priorities like diversity and reconciliation. But perhaps most importantly, RMED is about connection—bringing together stakeholders, data, ideas, and people to reduce barriers and unlock potential across Manitoba’s rural landscape. So what does that look like on the ground? And what is the economic outlook for municipalities when viewed through a local, regional lens? Today on Municipal Affairs, we explore those questions. Joining us is Margot Cathcart, Chief Executive Officer of the Rural Manitoba Economic Development Corporation. A proud rural Manitoban, Margot brings decades of experience across both the private and public sectors—from agriculture and technology to finance and media. Recognized as one of The West 20 for her leadership in economic development across Western Canada, she’s known as a builder—someone who understands how to turn ideas into impact. Margot joins us to talk about how RMED is working with communities and businesses across Manitoba—and what it will take to build a resilient, competitive, and prosperous future for rural municipalities. This is Municipal Affairs. ------Learn More About RMED:  https://rmedcorp.ca/ ------ Support The Show Today: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/support-the-show Join The Show: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/be-part-of-the-show  ------ Listen To The Show: Apple: https://apple.co/41p5I2I Spotify: https://bit.ly/3tkvb0E  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/crossborderinterviewswithchrisbrown ------ Follow Us On Social Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crossborderpodcast/ Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/crossbordernetwork.bsky.social  Threads: https://www.threads.net/@crossborderpodcast  Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/CrossBorderInterviews/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/crossborderinterviews/  Website: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/ Municipal Affairs is Part of The Cross Border Network ©2026

    53 min
  7. Sylvan Lake Says No To City Status... For Now

    APR 15

    Sylvan Lake Says No To City Status... For Now

    Sylvan Lake is growing—and fast.  What was once a small lakeside town has steadily evolved, with its population climbing from just under 16,000 in 2021 to nearly 18,000 by the end of 2025. With that growth came a familiar question for many Alberta communities: when does a town become a city? In 2022, Sylvan Lake’s Council first explored that possibility and chose to remain a town. This year, the conversation returned—armed with new data, updated financial considerations, and a deeper understanding of what a transition could mean. But now, that question has been answered—at least for the foreseeable future. Following a detailed report presented at the April 7, 2026 Governance and Priorities meeting, Council has decided not to pursue city status, choosing instead to remain the Town of Sylvan Lake. Mayor Megan Hanson says while the discussion was valuable—especially in light of the community’s continued growth—the conclusion was clear. Becoming a city, at this time, would offer little practical benefit while introducing potential risks. Among them: increased infrastructure responsibilities, uncertainty around highway ownership, and the possible loss of certain grant funding opportunities. And perhaps most importantly, the discussion reaffirmed something fundamental—municipal status alone doesn’t define a community. It doesn’t automatically change service levels, taxes, or the characteristics that residents value. Sylvan Lake’s identity—as a vibrant, close-knit lakeside community—remains at the heart of the decision. Still, this wasn’t a conversation without purpose. Exploring options like city status is part of responsible governance—ensuring decisions are informed, transparent, and grounded in the long-term interests of residents. So today, we take a closer look at that decision. What did the Council learn through this process? What risks ultimately outweighed the rewards? And what does this mean for the future of one of Alberta’s fastest-growing communities? Joining us is Mayor Megan Hanson, as we discuss why Sylvan Lake is choosing to stay a town—and what comes next. This is Municipal Affairs.------ Support The Show Today: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/support-the-show Join The Show: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/be-part-of-the-show  ------ Listen To The Show: Apple: https://apple.co/41p5I2I Spotify: https://bit.ly/3tkvb0E  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/crossborderinterviewswithchrisbrown ------ Follow Us On Social Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crossborderpodcast/ Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/crossbordernetwork.bsky.social  Threads: https://www.threads.net/@crossborderpodcast  Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/CrossBorderInterviews/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/crossborderinterviews/  Website: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/ Municipal Affairs is Part of The Cross Border Network ©2026

    26 min
  8. Is Harassment Getting Worse?: Part Two

    APR 13

    Is Harassment Getting Worse?: Part Two

    Across Canada, municipal politics is often called the most accessible level of government — the place where community voices meet real decision-making. But as we explored in Part One of “Is Harassment Getting Worse?” Series, that space is changing. Harassment is no longer occasional — for many women in municipal leadership, it’s becoming a constant backdrop to public service. In this second part of our series, we continue that conversation — going deeper into how harassment is evolving, and what it means for those who choose to serve. Because for many women, the challenges don’t stop at criticism. They extend into personal attacks, online abuse, and moments that cross the line from political disagreement into something far more harmful. Today on Municipal Affairs, we’re once again having an honest, unfiltered discussion — not just about what’s happening, but about what comes next. We’re joined by two more municipal leaders from across the country: Councillor Alysson Storey from Chatham-Kent, Ontario; and Mayor Pam Mood from Yarmouth, Nova Scotia. Together, they share their experiences navigating harassment in their roles, reflect on how it has changed over time, and offer insight into what needs to happen to make municipal politics safer and more sustainable for women. This conversation doesn’t just revisit the issue — it pushes it forward. From identifying patterns to discussing solutions, we explore how municipalities, communities, and leaders themselves can respond. Because the future of local leadership depends on who feels safe stepping up — and staying. This is Municipal Affairs. ------ Support The Show Today: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/support-the-show Join The Show: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/be-part-of-the-show  ------ Listen To The Show: Apple: https://apple.co/41p5I2I Spotify: https://bit.ly/3tkvb0E  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/crossborderinterviewswithchrisbrown ------ Follow Us On Social Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crossborderpodcast/ Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/crossbordernetwork.bsky.social  Threads: https://www.threads.net/@crossborderpodcast  Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/CrossBorderInterviews/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/crossborderinterviews/  Website: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/ Municipal Affairs is Part of The Cross Border Network ©2026

    1 hr
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

From the bustling streets of Vancouver to the serene coastlines of the Maritimes, and all the way up north to the breathtaking landscapes of the Arctic, we're embarking on an expedition that will connect us, inform us, and empower us. This isn't just another show; it's your portal into the pulse of your local community and every community across our vast and diverse country.

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