Ep 18: Power Suits & Policy - Redefining Municipal Advocacy & Policy in Ontario

What does it really take to advocate for over 100 municipalities across Eastern Ontario while breaking barriers as a woman in government relations? Meredith Staveley-Watson opens up about her journey from volunteer to becoming Director of Government Relations and Policy at the Eastern Ontario Wardens’ Caucus (EOWC). 

Meredith, affectionately known as "Municipal Meredith" during her Masters of Public Administration at Queen’s University, reveals why she chose to focus on local government when others pursued federal or provincial paths. Her passion for municipal work stems from its direct impact on communities and the incredible diversity of issues – from infrastructure and finance to social services and even cemetery management. This conversation pulls back the curtain on what government relations and municipal governance actually entails. 

The financial challenges facing municipalities take center stage as Meredith highlights a fundamental imbalance in our governance structure—one that dates back over a century to the original division of power and funding. Local governments are responsible for the majority of public infrastructure and social programs, yet they receive the smallest share of tax dollars—and unlike other levels of government, they’re not allowed to run deficits.

This burden hits rural communities the hardest, where fewer residents must maintain the same kilometers of road as densely populated urban areas. Meredith’s advocacy at the EOWC—alongside other municipalities—for a “new financial framework” presents a compelling vision for sustainable, long-term funding for local governance and services. 

Perhaps most powerful is Meredith’s discussion of women’s leadership in municipal politics. In 2025, for the first time, all heads of Ontario’s municipal organizations are women—many of whom are championing initiatives like "Elect Respect" to create safer, more inclusive spaces for women in elected office and public service.

We also dive into the power of mentorship and networking, the importance of asking for what you want, how volunteering where you're passionate can open doors, and why visualizing your success—right down to the power suit—is a crucial ingredient in the recipe for achieving it.

Like what you heard? Check out these resources: 

About the Eastern Ontario Wardens’ Caucus: Homepage - EOWC

Eastern Ontario Wardens’ Caucus Advocacy: EOWC Communications - EOWC

Elect Respect: Elect Respect — A Pledge to Restore Civility in the Public Square

AMCTO Mentorship Program: Mentorship Program | AMCTO (Mentorship open until August 8 for 2025-2026 cohort)

Ontario’s Municipal Leadership Shines on International Women’s Day 2025: Ontario’s Municipal Leadership Shines on International Women’s Day - EOWC

Federation of Canadian Municipalities: Stronger Together | Federation of Canadian Municipalities

Association of Municipalities of Ontario: Home | AMO