LONDON – The Western Ontario Wardens’ Caucus (WOWC) hosted a sold out 2025 Western Ontario Municipal Conference (WOMC) in London on Oct. 17.
Officials say the event brought together municipal leaders, provincial representatives and industry experts from across the region for a day of collaboration and discussion under this year’s theme, Powering Ontario’s Economic Engine.
Keynote speaker and journalist Steve Paikin addresses the Western Ontario Municipal Conference on Oct. 17. Submitted photos
The annual conference included sessions focused on housing, infrastructure, mental health and addictions, and economic development.
The event opened with welcoming remarks from the Municipal Affairs and Housing minister Rob Flack, followed by a keynote address from renowned journalist and former host of TVO’s The Agenda Steve Paikin.
Throughout the day, delegates participated in concurrent panel sessions highlighting innovative approaches and best practices in addressing Western Ontario’s most pressing challenges and opportunities.
A fireside chat closed the conference, featuring provincial representatives including Minister of Rural Affairs Lisa Thompson; parliamentary assistant to the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing Matthew Rae; parliamentary assistant to the Premier Will Bouma and parliamentary assistant to the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness Paul Vickers.
They shared insights on collaboration between municipalities and the province to strengthen Ontario’s rural and regional communities.
“Bringing together municipal leaders, provincial partners and sector experts creates space for the kind of open dialogue that strengthens Western Ontario’s role as the engine of Ontario’s economy,” said Western Ontario Wardens’ Caucus chair and Norfolk County Mayor Amy Martin.
Middlesex County Warden Brian Ropp welcomed attendees to the Western Ontario Wardens’ Caucus’ annual municipal conference on Oct. 17. Submitted photo
“The Western Ontario Municipal Conference continues to be an important forum for meaningful discussion, shared learning and collaboration among those shaping the future of our region.”
Western Ontario Municipal Conference chair and Oxford County Warden Marcus Ryan said, “The success of this year’s sold out conference reflects the strong commitment of Western Ontario’s municipalities to work together and share ideas that make a real difference in our communities.
“We’re grateful to our delegates, sponsors, and exhibitors for helping to make the Western Ontario Municipal Conference such a valuable and engaging event.”
The conference kicked off the evening prior with a networking reception, sponsored by Middlesex County, giving delegates the opportunity to connect with colleagues and explore the conference’s information fair.
The WOWC extends appreciation to all conference sponsors and exhibitors for their contributions in making this year’s sold-out event a success.
