Terms of Reference
Northwestern Ontario Water and Wastewater Conference & Ontario Water Works Association
Mandate
The mandate of the Northwestern Ontario Water and Wastewater Conference (regional chapter of the OWWA) is to serve as a premier regional forum dedicated to the professional development, collaboration, and advancement of the water and wastewater industry. The annual Conference during the Fall is committed to the following objectives:
- Knowledge Sharing
To facilitate the presentation and dissemination of current, innovative, and enhanced methods in the construction, operation, and maintenance of waterworks and wastewater systems. - Experience Exchange
To promote the sharing of practical experiences, challenges, and solutions among utility personnel, consultants, contractors, and other stakeholders in the water and wastewater sector. - Health and Safety Awareness
To highlight and present critical health and safety information aimed at minimizing workplace incidents and reducing lost time due to accidents within the industry. - Collaboration with Industry Partners
To maintain and strengthen cooperative relationships with the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks and other industry partners in areas of mutual concern and benefit. - Industry Recognition and Advancement
To support and advocate for the continued development, recognition, and promotion of the water and wastewater industry for the benefit of communities throughout Northwestern Ontario. - Exhibitor Engagement
To create a conference environment that enables water and wastewater professionals to engage directly with suppliers, contractors, and consultants, fostering valuable connections and service awareness.
This mandate guides all activities of the Conference and reflects its commitment to the continued excellence and evolution of the water and wastewater industry in Northwestern Ontario.
Composition
Chapter membership is open to all municipalities within the districts of Kenora, Rainy River, and Thunder Bay, including Public Utilities Commissions, Cities, Towns, Villages, and Improvement Districts with a current OWWA membership.
Individuals or firms not eligible for full membership but interested in the industry and goals of the conference may join as associate members. They may attend and present but cannot vote or hold executive office.
Chapter Structure
Chapter Structure includes a minimum: Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, Treasurer, and a minimum Three (3) Directors.
Terms of Office
Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, Treasurer, and Directors: elected and serves until resignation or replacement.
Governance
Decisions are made by majority vote unless otherwise specified. A quorum for Chapter meetings is four (4) members.
A Nominating Committee, chaired by the immediate Past Chair and two appointed members, presents a proposed slate at the Annual Meeting. Further nominations may be made by any member.
The Chapter committee may appoint a replacement if a Director is no longer eligible to serve.
Meetings
Regular planning meetings shall be held at a minimum quarterly. Meetings are held primarily in-person with the option for video conference attendees.
The annual Conference shall be held annually during the fall of the year. The locations and dates shall be as designated by the Board of Directors. The Chairperson may call special meeting(s), if and where required.
The Conference shall be for one to two days between the hours of 8:00am and 5:00pm.
Communication
The Chapter communicates during meetings and organized events (conferences) when possible. Members also rely heavily on email and telephone communication to ensure Chapter activities can progress in a timely manner, and to ensure members are kept up to date on any relevant information. The Committee also communicates externally via:
- Pipeline articles (Conference Summaries)
- OWWA website
- Board reports
- Conferences
- Social media
- OWWA email communication tools
Partnerships
The chapter shall co-operate fully with the OWWA and other organizations which have the same goals as the Association.
Registration Fees (subject to update):
- Delegate: $120
- Vendor Booth (Standard): $350 (1 rep)
- Vendor Booth (Premium): $400 (1 rep)
- Additional Vendor Reps: $100 each