FCM Launches Defence Task Force

As Canada moves to strengthen its defence readiness and meet new commitments with NATO, municipalities are being recognized as critical partners in the effort. At the Federation of Canadian Municipalities' annual convention in Edmonton, FCM announced the creation of a new Defence Task Force aimed at strengthening collaboration between local governments and federal partners. The task force will be co-chaired by Councillor Will Cole-Hamilton of Courtenay, British Columbia, and Councillor Conny Glenn of Kingston, Ontario. The initiative builds on the important role municipalities already play in supporting Canada's defence capacity. From roads, water systems, and housing to transportation networks and community services, local infrastructure plays a vital role in supporting military operations and the families who live and work in communities across the country. The launch comes as Canada significantly increases defence spending and advances new commitments with NATO. As new investments are made, ensuring federal priorities align with local realities will be essential to delivering results efficiently and effectively. During the four-day convention in Edmonton, we spoke with Councillor Will Cole-Hamilton and Councillor Conny Glenn about the creation of the Defence Task Force, why now was the right time to launch this initiative, and what they hope to accomplish as municipalities take on a larger role in supporting Canada's defence readiness. ----- 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