Town of Caledon hosts York University’s 8th annual Municipalities of the Future Symposium

March 26, 2026 - (CALEDON, ON) – The Town of Caledon was proud to partner with York University’s School of Public Policy and Administration’s to host the 8th annual Municipalities of the Future Symposium at the Humber River Centre in Bolton. With over 120 participants, this year’s event brought together municipal leaders, academics, practitioners, and students to explore the rapidly evolving landscape of local governance.

Centered on the theme After Stability: Municipal Government in an Age of Disruption, the symposium examined how municipalities are adapting to complex and fastmoving changes — from technological transformation and service innovation to emerging approaches to planning and governance.

“Our partnership with York University demonstrates the tangible benefits of closer collaboration between municipalities and post-secondary institutions,” said Nathan Hyde, CAO, Town of Caledon. “It reinforces the need to expand educational opportunities in Caledon so we can support local talent, drive innovation, and strengthen our community’s future.”

Judith D’Souza Soares, Commissioner of Community Services, Town of Caledon; John MacKenzie, CEO, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA); and Nathan Hyde, CAO, Town of Caledon

The symposium provided a platform to:

• Examine the disruptions shaping municipal governance and service delivery
• Highlight innovative practices and emerging approaches
• Foster dialogue between sector leaders and academic partners
• Share practical insights to inform both professional practice and academic study

“Thank you to the Town of Caledon for providing the opportunity to showcase the incredible work being done in municipalities and the commitment to postsecondary education as a key part of life-long learning,” said Naomi Couto, Director, School of Public Policy and Administration, Associate Professor. “York University’s School of Public Policy and Administration's motto is “education for good governance” and today, we saw how ideas become actions in building strong and resilient communities.”

Keynote Address: Joyce Drohan, AI and Technology strategist on “Scaling AI: Balancing Ambition with Reality

The Town of Caledon remains committed to strengthening its partnership with York University and expanding opportunities for local learning, applied research, and workforce development. Strong relationships with postsecondary institutions enrich community life and equip municipalities to respond to complex challenges with evidence-based, forward-looking solutions. Caledon will continue to enhance its postsecondary partnerships to build research capacity, drive innovation, and support a resilient, future-ready community.

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Media Contact:

Communications
905.584.2272 | communications@caledon.ca 
www.caledon.ca | @TownofCaledon

About Caledon

Caledon is home to close to 80,000 residents and 4,000 businesses and is well-known for its natural attractions, rural charm and vital role in the economic engine of the Greater Toronto Area. It will soon be one of Ontario’s fastest growing communities as it prepares to become a city of 300,000 residents and 125,000 jobs by 2051. Under its current strategic plan, Caledon’s priorities remain environmental leadership, community vitality and livability, enhanced transportation and mobility, and service excellence and accountability. For more information, visit Caledon.ca or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Bluesky and X (formerly Twitter).