​​BRAMPTON, ON (August 28, 2023) – The Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) has announced that Brampton Regional Councillor Rowena Santos has been appointed by FCM President Scott Pearce as Chair of the Standing Committee Municipal Finance, Infrastructure and Transportation 2023-2024.

FCM’s Standing Committee on Municipal Finance, Infrastructure and Transportation drives board capacity building with a focus on policies and programs related to infrastructure, public transit, mobility, transportation, telecommunications, finance and procurement, international trade and municipal finance and autonomy. The City of Brampton’s federal advocacy priorities are closely aligned with the committee’s priorities and will be an opportunity to enhance the City’s advocacy efforts at the federal level on behalf of Brampton and Canadian municipalities.

Guiding the development of a new Municipal Growth Framework will be a primary focus of this committee. Municipalities like Brampton, manage more than 60 percent of Canada’s public infrastructure yet only receive between 8 and 10 cents for each tax dollar collected. National growth is intrinsically linked to the country’s cities, towns and communities – and Canada’s municipalities, through FCM, are calling for a new Municipal Growth Framework that empowers local governments with a revenue tool that grows with the national population and economy. With a modernized framework in place, municipalities will be better empowered to continue to lead on Canada’s pressing national challenges and improve the quality of life for all Canadians.

Previously, Councillor Santos has been a Member of the Standing Committee on Municipal Finance, Infrastructure and Transportation for three years, and has served two terms as the Vice-Chair of the Standing Committee on Anti-Racism and Equity, and was a member of the Standing Committee on Increasing Women’s Participation in Municipal Government. Councillor Santos will remain an active member of the Standing Committee on Anti-Racism and Equity as she transitions to chairing the Standing Committee on Municipal Finance, Infrastructure and Transportation.

FCM is a national advocacy organization for municipal governments that represents more than 2,100 municipalities and 20 provincial and territorial municipal associations. FCM ensures that the needs of municipalities are reflected in federal policies and programs. Municipal leaders from across Canada assemble each year to set FCM policy on key issues.

Councillor Santos is a proud Bramptonian inspired by community and driven by a passion to change the culture of politics and build a more prosperous, livable and sustainable future.  Councillor Santos remains committed to advocating for the needs of communities, including Brampton, as a strong and influential leader at the FCM.

“It is an honour to serve as Chair of FCM’s Standing Committee on Municipal Finance, Infrastructure and Transportation. I am especially looking forward to working alongside colleagues across Canada, in developing and advocating for a new Municipal Growth Framework. This is incredibly important for municipalities as we are increasingly financially challenged in delivering the level of services that our residents deserve. By working together, we will help ensure our municipalities have the tools, funding and resources to support municipal financial health and autonomy, greener public transit, and the long-term infrastructure needs of our communities."

“On behalf of Council, I congratulate Councillor Santos on her new appointment. I’m proud that she will continue to advocate for our community and municipalities across the country. I know she will serve the Standing Committee dutifully as she works to support effective financial management and key growth priorities for Brampton and Canadian communities.”

As one of the fastest-growing cities in Canada, Brampton is home to nearly 700,000 people and more than 90,000 businesses. People are at the heart of everything we do. We are energized by our diverse communities, we attract investment, and we are embarking on a journey to lead technological and environmental innovation. We partner for progress to build a healthy city that is safe, sustainable, and successful. Connect with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Learn more at www.brampton.ca