President’s Report for the 2025 AGM
The past year was marked by collaboration, advocacy, and progress for our members and the communities we represent. As we come together for our 2025 Conference and Annual General Meeting, and celebrate the 75th year of Municipalities Newfoundland and Labrador (MNL), I am proud to reflect on the work we have accomplished, the challenges we have faced, and the successes we have achieved together.
This year, MNL has continued to be a strong and consistent voice for municipalities across our province. Guided by the resolutions passed by our members at the 2024 AGM, our advocacy has focused on ensuring that municipal needs and priorities remain central to both the provincial and federal agendas. These resolutions are at the heart of MNL’s policy and advocacy work; they shape our priorities and ensure that we speak with one clear, united voice on behalf of our members.
Through three separate elections, provincial, federal, and municipal, MNL worked to ensure that the voices of our members were heard loud and clear. We advocated on key issues impacting communities of all sizes, including municipal fiscal health, infrastructure renewal, drinking water and wastewater systems, climate resilience, community safety, and the need for stronger regional collaboration.
During the provincial election period, we engaged directly with all political parties to ensure they understood the realities faced by local governments and the importance of a renewed provincial–municipal partnership. Our message was clear: municipal concerns must be provincial priorities.
In 2025, MNL was pleased to see several of our advocacy priorities reflected in the provincial budget. The government announced increased funding for municipal fire services and expanded training opportunities for councils and staff, important steps toward supporting volunteer fire departments and addressing the growing costs of responding beyond municipal boundaries. The continued $3 million increase to Municipal Operating Grants, as outlined in Budget 2023, further demonstrated the Province’s recognition of the need for greater fiscal stability in our communities. MNL also continued to advocate for the modernization of outdated municipal legislation, including the Cities Acts, to address ongoing revenue challenges. These investments and commitments represent meaningful progress toward building sustainable, vibrant, and fiscally stable communities across Newfoundland and Labrador.
These wins are a testament to the strength of our collective voice—proof that when municipalities speak together, we are heard.
A key focus for MNL this year has been ensuring that our members have a seat at the table where decisions affecting our communities are made. Whether through formal committees, consultation processes, or direct engagement with provincial and federal departments, MNL has worked tirelessly to represent the interests of local government at every level. We have strengthened our partnerships with the Department of Municipal and Community Affairs, the Department of Environment and Climate Change, and other key departments and numerous stakeholders through regular dialogue, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas.
MNL has continued to deliver meaningful support to our members through a range of programs and services. Initiatives such as the Housing Capacity Building Officers and the Municipal Financial Stability Project have helped municipalities access millions in funding over the past year. We remain committed to listening to our members and developing programs that strengthen local governance and support the vital work you do in communities across Newfoundland and Labrador every day.
As we look ahead, our focus remains clear: to strengthen the municipal sector, build capacity, and advocate for the resources, respect, and recognition that local governments deserve.
Our members are the heart of MNL. Your leadership, collaboration, and commitment to your communities drive our collective success. Thank you for your continued engagement and for all that you do every day to make Newfoundland and Labrador’s communities stronger, safer, and more sustainable.
It is an honour to serve as your President.
Amy Coady
President
Municipalities Newfoundland and Labrador