We know many of our member communities host Remembrance Day activities on November 11. In order to accommodate our Elected Officials Education Program courses, while respecting those who want to take part in those ceremonies, we will be hosting our EOEP sessions at Convention on November 14 & 15.
EOEP courses will begin in the afternoon on Friday, November 14 once Convention closes, and continue for another half day on Saturday, November 15. Registration for the courses is available during the registration process for Convention. If you have any questions, please email registration [at] abmunis.ca.
Courses are $395+tax and are available to elected officials, and include refreshments and breakfast on Saturday.
Munis 101
The Munis 101 course, is designed to provide the fundamental information that any new or returning municipal elected official needs to govern effectively. Aligned with the orientation requirements under the Municipal Government Act, this course introduces elected officials to the key structures, roles, and responsibilities that shape municipal governance in Alberta.
Participants will gain a foundational understanding of how municipalities operate, explore the distinct roles of council and administration, and examine how elected officials can work together to build respectful, effective decision-making processes.
Key Topics:
• Roles and responsibilities of elected officials and administration
• Council meeting procedures and decision-making
• Overview of key municipal plans, budgets, and policies
• Understanding the legislative and governance framework
Format: This course is designed to be interactive, with discussion to connect the concepts of governance with realities of council decision-making.
Council’s Role in Budgeting and Finances
Understanding municipal finances is critical for elected officials to make sound, strategic decisions that reflect community priorities and deliver long-term value. This course provides elected officials with a practical, accessible introduction to the financial landscape of local government.
Through interactive discussions, real-world examples, and hands-on exercises, participants will explore the full financial cycle from budgets and taxation to reserves, reporting, and long-term planning. The course emphasizes the elected official’s role in financial oversight, questions to ask, and how to use financial information to inform policy and planning.
Whether you're new to council or looking to deepen your understanding, this course offers the tools and context you need to make confident, informed financial decisions on behalf of your municipality.
Key Topics:
• The municipal financial cycle: planning, budgeting, and reporting
• The role of taxation, reserves, and debt
• Council’s role in financial decision-making and accountability
• Using financial tools to support strategic direction and service delivery
Format:
This course is designed to be interactive, with case-based learning, partner activities, and discussion to connect financial concepts to the realities of council decision-making.
Council’s Role in Employment of the CAO
A strong and effective relationship between council and the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) is essential to good governance. This new course is designed to support elected officials in understanding and fulfilling their responsibilities throughout the CAO employment lifecycle including recruitment and onboarding to performance evaluation and, when necessary, termination.
Participants will explore how to establish clarity in roles, build mutual trust and accountability, and ensure the CAO relationship supports the strategic direction of the municipality. Whether you are hiring a new CAO or striving to strengthen an existing relationship, this course provides the tools and perspective to help council navigate one of its most important responsibilities.
Key Topics:
• Council’s legal and strategic responsibilities in employing a CAO
• Best practices in recruitment, onboarding, and retention
• Setting performance expectations and conducting evaluations
• Supporting long-term success through a healthy council-CAO dynamic
Format:
This interactive course includes, guided exercises, and discussion designed to equip elected officials with the confidence and clarity needed to carry out their governance role with respect to the CAO.
