How To Get The Most Out Of The FCM Convention

This week, we’re talking about the Federation of Canadian Municipalities Convention — one of the biggest events on the municipal calendar, where local leaders from across the country come together to debate policy, share ideas, and build relationships.But beyond the speeches and resolutions, what actually makes for a successful FCM experience? What should first-time delegates know before they arrive? And how important are the conversations happening outside the formal sessions — in workshops, caucus meetings, study tours, and even over coffee?We’ll also discuss the role municipalities play as ambassadors for their communities, why networking still matters in local government, and how conventions like FCM can shape policy and partnerships long after delegates return home.And of course, we’ll ask the question many veteran delegates know well: how do you balance the social side of FCM with the responsibility of representing your municipality professionally?Joining us for the roundtable are two people with extensive municipal leadership experience - and the co-authors of the Unofficial FCM Code: A Delegate’s Guide to Doing it Right — former FCM President and Halton Hills Councillor Clark Somerville, and Mayor of Aurora Tom Mrakas.Welcome to Municipal Affairs.-----Support The Show Today: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/support-the-showJoin The Show: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/be-part-of-the-show ------Listen To The Show:Apple: https://apple.co/41p5I2ISpotify: 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