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Positions available: 2 – 4 members

The Audit Committee has responsibility to Council to assist Council in fulfilling its due diligence, fiduciary, financial reporting and audit responsibilities and to approve, monitor, evaluate and provide advice on matters affecting the external audit, internal audit, risk management and the financial reporting and accounting control policies and practices of the City.

Committee responsibilities

The Audit Committee shall be responsible for making recommendations directly to Council regarding the following:

1. Financial Statements
2. External Audit Function
3. Internal Audit Function (City Auditor)
4. Corporate Control Framework
5. Risk Management
6. General and Administrative

How we conduct committee business

The Audit Committee meetings are currently being conducted using a hybrid model, allowing committee members, staff, delegates, and the public the option to attend in person or virtually.

Agendas are distributed electronically and posted on the City of Burlington online calendar.

Audit Committee minutes will be shared with Council and Audit Committee’s citizen members through Council agendas and minutes.

Meeting frequency

The Committee is expected to meet at least four times per year. Where necessary, additional committee meetings may be called by the Chair or Vice Chair as required.

Meetings typically take place on Wednesdays from 3:30 to 5 p.m.

Committee composition

The Committee is comprised of up to eight members, casting one vote per member:

• Three members of council
• A minimum of two and up to four citizen representatives (community volunteers)
• Mayor, an ex-officio voting member of the Committee.

This appointment will expire Nov. 14, 2026, or until a successor is appointed.

Appointments will coincide with the term of Council.

Key qualifications

In addition to the general eligibility requirements set out in the Public Appointments Policy and Audit Committee Terms of Reference,  members of the Audit Committee should:

• Obtain a satisfactory police check paid for by the City
• Be independent
• Be a resident of the City of Burlington
• Be financially literate (the ability to read and understand basic financial statements)
• Have an aptitude for complex organizational effectiveness and governance
• Have a general understanding of the City’s major economic, operating, and financial risks
• Have a broad awareness of the interrelationship of the City’s operations and its financial reporting
• Have an understanding of the difference between the oversight function of the Committee and the decision-making function of management
• Be willing to challenge management when necessary
• Preferably a member of a professional accounting association.

The application period has closed.

Positions available: 12 members and 2 alternates

The Burlington Accessibility Advisory Committee was established in 1994, as a requirement by law through the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005. The role of the committee is to advise on the identification, removal and prevention of barriers to people with disabilities in the City’s bylaws, policies, programs and services. The committee works with City staff to create the Multi-Year Corporate Accessibility Plan and advises the city on accessibility issues, not only to help remove existing barriers but also to prevent new barriers from being created. 

Committee responsibilities

• Provide advice on the identification, removal and prevention of barriers to people with disabilities in the city’s by-laws, policies, facilities, programs and services
• Provide advice on the implementation of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005, as required through legislation
• To enhance awareness within Burlington about accessibility
• Liaise with various committees, organizations and groups with an interest in advancing disability issues in order to share information, best practices and other resources as it relates to accessibility in Burlington including participating with other Accessibility Advisory Committees at joint meetings, other related meetings and /or training opportunities

How we conduct committee business

The Burlington Accessibility Advisory Committee meetings are currently being conducted remotely using Zoom.  Agendas are distributed electronically and posted on the City of Burlington online calendar.

Meeting frequency

Meetings take place monthly, on the second Thursday of the month beginning at 7 p.m. and meetings are approximately two hours in length.

Committee composition

The Burlington Accessibility Advisory Committee has twelve voting members with two alternates.

This appointment will expire Dec. 31, 2024, or until a successor is appointed.

Appointments will coincide with the term of Council.

Key qualifications

In addition to the general eligibility requirements set out in the Public Appointments Policy, members of the Accessibility Advisory Committee should possess:

• An interest in accessibility issues, including removing and preventing barriers
• Knowledge of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005
• Ability to read, review, and at times analyze development plans, site plans, and architectural plans regarding accessibility
• Experience working on a team
• Familiarity with virtual meeting technology

Positions available: 7

The Burlington Agricultural and Rural Affairs Advisory Committee (BARAAC) was established by the City in 2018, through its review and adoption of the new Burlington Official Plan. Rural Burlington, located on the edge of a major urban area, faces significant pressures and challenges as a community, but also significant opportunities. The protection and strengthening of the rural community is the City’s overarching goal in planning for the rural area. As the economic viability of farming is central to the future of rural Burlington, the health and prosperity of the agricultural system is integral to these efforts.

Committee responsibilities

• Advise and assist in the implementation of Burlington’s agricultural and rural goals, objectives and policies
• Review and provide comments on City policies, plans and programs that may impact Burlington’s agricultural and rural area
• Review and provide comments on policies, plans and programs from external agencies and senior levels of government that impact Burlington’s agricultural and rural area;
• Raise community awareness and understanding of agricultural and rural issues as they relate to the City and its activities.

How we conduct committee business

BARAAC meetings are currently being conducted remotely using Zoom. Agendas are distributed electronically and posted on the City of Burlington online calendar.

Meeting frequency

Meetings take place monthly on the third Wednesday evening of the month beginning at 7 p.m. and are approximately two hours in length.

Committee composition

BARAAC has ten voting members with two alternates.

This appointment will expire Dec. 31, 2024, or until a successor is appointed.

Appointments will coincide with the term of Council.

Key qualifications

In addition to the general eligibility requirements set out in the Public Appointment Policy, members of BARAAC must possess:

• A valid Farm Business Registration Number or reside in a ward with a rural component and:
  • own an agricultural or rural business, or
  • represent an agricultural or rural society or related special interest group, or
  • possess other skills and experience or education relevant to agriculture
• Knowledge of issues faced by Burlington’s rural and/or agricultural community
• Experience working on a team
• Familiarity with virtual meeting technology.

The application period has closed.

Positions available: 4 members and 1 alternate

The Burlington Integrated Transportation Advisory Committee was established in 2015 to focus on all forms of transportation in the community including pedestrian, cycling, transit and driving.

Committee responsibilities

• Provide advice to Council and City staff on policies, initiatives and strategies affecting transportation, such as road safety, cycling and transit services
• Provide feedback on City master plans pertaining to transportation/transit issues
• Provide strategic input and alignment to staff and Council on key projects, including the City’s Official Plan, Integrated Mobility Plan, Community Trails Strategy, Cycling Plan, Mobility Hubs Master Plan, etc.
• Review and comment on information provided by the following transportation organizations: Metrolinx, Canadian Urban Transit Association, Ministry of Transportation and Ontario Public Transit Association

How we conduct committee business

The Burlington Integrated Transportation Advisory Committee currently meets remotely using Zoom. Agendas are distributed electronically and posted on the City of Burlington online calendar.

Meeting frequency

Meetings take place once monthly, on the last Monday of the month beginning at 7 p.m. and are approximately two hours in length.

Committee composition

The Burlington Integrated Transportation Advisory Committee has six voting members from the community, one voting member from each of the following advisory committees: Cycling, Sustainable Development, Seniors’ and Accessibility Advisory Committees, and two alternates.

This appointment will expire Dec. 31, 2024, or until a successor is appointed.

Appointments will coincide with the term of Council.

Key qualifications

In addition to the general eligibility requirements set out in the Public Appointments Policy, members of the Burlington Integrated Transportation Advisory Committee should:

• Be familiar with virtual meeting technology
• Be able to work as a team to produce a yearly workplan and budget to meet the mandate of the committee
• Be familiar with transportation, pedestrian, cycling and transit initiatives/strategies in the community and be able to provide feedback, advice and insights to staff and council regarding these matters
• Be prepared to participate in Burlington Integrated Transportation Advisory Committee meetings and in events planned by the committee within the community

The application period has closed.

Positions available: 7 members and 2 alternates

The Burlington Mundialization Committee was established in 1984 as a steering committee to investigate options for twining Burlington with another city. In 1989, Burlington and Itabashi Japan signed a twinning agreement and in 2005, Burlington and Apeldoorn signed a twinning agreement.  As part of the committee responsibilities, a United Nations Day celebration was included.

Committee responsibilities

• Promote the City of Burlington as a ‘world community’ dedicated to the United Nations philosophy of peaceful cooperation among the peoples of the world and encourage community understanding of different cultures and global issues
• Maintain our twin city relationships in accordance with the agreements
• Promote activities that celebrate our similarities and respect our differences
• Organize a celebration of United Nations Day each year around Oct. 24
• Provide advice to Council and assist with the City’s twin city relationship.

How we conduct committee business

The Mundialization Committee meetings are currently being conducted remotely using Zoom. Agendas are distributed electronically and posted on the City of Burlington online calendar.

Meeting frequency

Meetings take place monthly, on the first Wednesday of the month beginning at 7 p.m. and meetings are approximately two hours in length.

Committee composition

The Burlington Accessibility Advisory Committee has fifteen voting members with two alternates.

This appointment will expire Dec. 31, 2024, or until a successor is appointed.

Appointments will coincide with the term of Council.

Key qualifications

In addition to the general eligibility requirements set out in the Public Appointment Policy, members of the Mundialization Committee should possess:

• An interest in promoting Burlington as a ‘world community’
• An interest in creating relationships/partnerships that would mutually benefit Burlington and potential partners
• Knowledge of the existing twin relationships between the City of Burlington, Itabashi and Apeldoorn
• Experience working on a team
• Familiarity with virtual meeting technology

 The application period has closed.

Positions available: 2

The Burlington Museums Board is the governing body for the Museums of Burlington, working alongside The Corporation of the City of Burlington.  The role of the Burlington Museums Board is to provide strategic leadership and direction for the organization. The Museums of Burlington commitment is to serve, lead and together build a culture rich community while engaging our audiences through the sharing of history and culture.  It is an exciting time to join the Board as the Museums of Burlington is in the midst of embarking on a new strategic planning initiative to establish the vision and direction to position the Museums of Burlington for continued future success.

Board responsibilities

• Provides continuity for the overall operations of the Burlington Museum sites, including policy governance and financial management
• Fosters greater public awareness, appreciation and support for the Museums of Burlington

• Acts as an ambassador advocating for the Museums of Burlington
• Works proactively with the Director of Museums to set goals and strategic direction for the Museums.
• Works collaboratively with the Director of Museums, staff, City Council and other interest groups on behalf of the Museums of Burlington
• Participate on one of the Board sub-committees: Finance, Board Effectiveness, Asset Development or Facilities.

How we conduct committee business

The Museum Board meetings are typically held in person at either the Joseph Brant Museum or Ireland House Museum. 

Meeting frequency

Meetings take place once a month

Committee composition

The Museum Board of Directors has 8 members and 1 member of City Council. Members will hold office for a period of three (3) years (January 1 through December 31) and may not serve more than two (2) consecutive terms; Board members can be re-nominated following an absence of one (1) term.

Key qualifications

In addition to the general eligibility requirements set out in the Public Appointment Policy, members of the Burlington Museums Board should possess:

• Professional experience with a passion for culture, history and Museums
• The ability to problem solve, communicate effectively and enjoy working as part of a dynamic team
• Availability for monthly board meetings and occasionally other meetings based on the needs of the organization
• Expertise in marketing and/or the cultural sector would be considered an asset.

The application period has closed.

Positions available: 6

Do you have a passion for the library in our community? Do you believe the library provides essential services to community members across Burlington? Can you bring collaboration and strategic oversight into how services are delivered? If so, then the Burlington Public Library Board may be for you.

The Burlington Public Library Board is the governing body for Burlington Public Library (BPL). The Burlington Public Library Board (the “Board”) is a corporation appointed by the City of Burlington under and acting in accordance with the Public Libraries Act, Revised Statutes of Ontario, 1990 Chapter P.44

The Board acts on behalf of the community in the discharge of its mandate and is appointed by and accountable to Burlington City Council for the financial affairs of Burlington Public Library.

Board responsibilities

• Ensures that the funding BPL receives provides the best possible library service to Burlington residents. In addition, the Board is committed to providing effective governance for BPL to ensure services and programs offered by BPL remain relevant to the changing needs of the community.
• Establishes the bylaw and policies that govern the operations of BPL and of the Board itself.

• Conducts regular review of policies to ensure continued relevance.
• Appoints the Chief Executive Officer who will have general supervision over and direction of the operations of the public library and its staff. (Public Libraries Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. P.44, s. 15(2)).

• Develops, approves and monitors short and long-term plans of the library and the strategies to implement them.

• Monitors the financial affairs of the Library and ensures that the organization operates on an ethical and sound financial basis.
• Monitors the key performance indicators of the Library and endorses strategies to influence those performance indicators.
• Ensures the Library has policies and practices in place for proactive risk management in all activities.

• Assesses all relevant information regarding the library service needs of the Community, endorses service priorities and advocates for adequate and appropriate funding to achieve the service priorities.

• Advocates in the community to gain support and approvals for appropriate public library services and seeks positive partnerships to best serve the community and to fulfill the Mission and Values of Burlington Public Library.

• Ensures the public is represented in the development and promotion of library services in the community.

• Conducts an annual performance appraisal of the Chief Executive Officer.
• Is responsible for naming all library locations and facilities for which it is responsible.

How we conduct business

Board meetings are conducted in a hybrid format. Dinner is provided for those who attend in person. The usual location is Central. Time commitment is approximately 6-10 hours per month.

Meeting frequency

Meetings take place in the evening on the fourth Thursday of the month.

Committee composition

By-Law 70-200 of the Corporation of the City of Burlington defines the composition of the Board. The Board is composed of seven (7) trustees. This includes: one (1) Member of the Council of the Corporation of the City of Burlington and six (6) trustees appointed by the City Council. Board members shall hold office for a term concurrent with the term of Council.

Key qualifications

In addition to the general eligibility requirements set out in Section 10 of the Public Libraries Act

• Professional who has a passion for culture and the Burlington community
• Ability to problem solve, effective communicator and enjoys working collaboratively
• Available for monthly board meetings and other meetings and events, based on the needs of the Library.
• The Board aims for broad representation with a variety of expertise including backgrounds in finance/accounting (CA/CPA), governance, prior board experience.

 The application period has closed.

Positions available: 5 members, 4 community/stakeholder members and 2 alternates

The Burlington Seniors’ Advisory Committee was established to raise awareness of seniors’ needs, to provide Burlington seniors with a voice about current issues and emerging concerns, and to promote and improve the quality of life for seniors living in Burlington.

Committee responsibilities

• Represent Burlington seniors' perspectives on municipal and other key seniors' issues, for example: transportation, isolation, affordability, parks and recreation services, service delivery
• Provide a voice for Burlington seniors, exchanging information about current issues and emerging concerns
• Provide input to City staff as requested and to the Region of Halton's Older Adult Advisory Committee (OAAC) on an ongoing basis
• Respond to seniors' community needs
• Create and execute an annual work plan, which may include: hosting seniors' discussion forums, supporting strategic planning for development of local seniors' services, etc
• Of the ten members, one member is appointed to each of the following committees: Burlington Accessibility Advisory Committee, Burlington Inclusivity Advisory Committee, Burlington Integrated Transportation Advisory Committee.

How we conduct committee business

The Burlington Seniors’ Advisory Committee currently meets remotely by way of Zoom. Agendas are distributed electronically and posted on the City of Burlington online calendar.

Meeting frequency

Meetings take place once monthly, on the last Monday of the month from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Committee composition

The Burlington Seniors’ Advisory Committee has five members, at least 55 years of age, five community/stakeholder representatives, and four alternates.

This appointment will expire Dec. 31, 2024, or until a successor is appointed.

Appointments will coincide with the term of Council.

Community/stakeholder representatives may be appointed from the following organizations, but are not limited to: Burlington Seniors’ Centre, Retirement/long term care facilities, Residential homes or seniors apartment complexes, Healthcare organizations (i.e. Red Cross, Acclaim Health, Bayshore Home Health), Community Development Halton

Key qualifications

In addition to the general eligibility requirements set out in the Public Appointments Policy, members of the Burlington Seniors’ Advisory Committee should:

• Be familiar with virtual meeting technology
• Be able to work as a team to produce a yearly workplan and budget to meet the mandate of the committee
• Be familiar with current issues affecting seniors in the City of Burlington and be able to provide feedback, advice and insights to staff and council regarding these concerns
• Be prepared to participate in Burlington Seniors’ Advisory Committee meetings and in events planned by the committee within the community

Positions available: 3

In 1990, City Council declared the City of Burlington to be a ‘Sustainable Development Community’ and established a Sustainable Development Advisory Committee. The Burlington Sustainable Development Advisory Committee members are volunteers who have been appointed by Council to advise on the issues that relate to sustainable development.

Committee responsibilities

• Provide advice to Council, having regard for environmental, economic, and social costs and benefits in the development and use of resources, products and services by reviewing and commenting on plans and strategies from external agencies and senior levels of government which may impact the city
• Encouraging the protection of the environment in a proactive manner, with emphasis on the anticipation and prevention
• Raise community awareness and understanding of sustainable development issues as they relate to the City of Burlington and its activities by reaching out to the community in activities and special events related to sustainable development and the natural environment, promoting sustainable resources use and conservation practices

How we conduct committee business

The Mundialization Committee meetings are currently being conducted remotely by way of Zoom.  Agendas are distributed electronically and posted on the City of Burlington online calendar.

Meeting frequency

Meetings take place monthly, on the third Wednesday of the month beginning at 7 p.m. and meetings are approximately two hours in length.

Committee composition

The Burlington Sustainable Development Committee has fifteen voting members with two to three alternates.

This appointment will expire Dec. 31, 2024, or until a successor is appointed.

Appointments will coincide with the term of Council.

Key qualifications

In addition to the general eligibility requirements set out in the Public Appointments Policy, members of the Sustainable Development Committee should possess:

• An interest in promoting Burlington as a sustainable development community
• Knowledge of the City of Burlington’s Principles and Objectives for Sustainable Development, Climate Action Plan, Climate Adaptation Plan, and other related city plans, programs, and policies
• Knowledge of legislation, regulations, programs, technology, and leading practices related to sustainable development
• Experience working on a team
• Familiarity with virtual meeting technology

Positions available: 5 members and 2 alternates

The Committee of Adjustment is a quasi-judicial tribunal established in accordance with s. 45 of the Planning Act of Ontario. In addition, the Committee serves as the City of Burlington’s Court of Revision and its Property Standards Committee. This Committee plays a critical role in shaping how our neighbourhoods grow and develop and is tasked with making important decisions related to land use matters.

Committee responsibilities

• Consider and make decisions on applications for Minor Variances from the provisions of a Zoning Bylaw
• Consider and make decisions on applications for changes to land configuration by way of a Consent to “sever” a property, or for any agreement, mortgage or lease that extends for more than 21 years
• Consider and make decisions on applications for Permission, which deal with the enlargement or extension of a building or structure that is legally non-conforming, or a change in non-conforming use
• Consider and make decisions on applications for Validation of Title and Power of Sale

How we conduct committee business

The Committee of Adjustment reviews digital plans electronically with meetings conducted remotely by way of Zoom.

Meeting frequency

Meetings take place twice a month, on Wednesdays, alternating each week between afternoons, beginning at 1 p.m., and evenings, beginning at 5:30 p.m.

Committee composition

The Committee of Adjustment has five regular members with two alternates.

This appointment will expire Nov. 14, 2026, or until a successor is appointed.

Appointments are for customarily four years, to coincide with the term of Council.

Key qualifications

In addition to the general eligibility requirements set out in the Public Appointments Policy, members of the Committee of Adjustment should possess:

• A strong background in planning, engineering, architecture, law, or a suitable equivalent
• Ability to read and understand the Zoning Bylaw and Official Plan
• Ability to read, review, and at times analyze development plans, site plans, architectural plans, grading plans
• Be familiar with iPad and virtual meeting technology
• Training in or familiarity with Robert’s Rules of Order would be an asset
• Proficient in meeting management and customer experience would be an asset
• Valid Class G Ontario driver’s license in order to perform site visits

Remuneration

Members receive $80 per meeting. 

Chair receives $100 per meeting.

Positions available: 4

The Burlington Cycling Advisory Committee was established in 1990 as the Burlington Bikeway Committee. The committee provides advice to Council on cycling matters and promotes cycling in the community.

Committee responsibilities

• Provide advice on matters pertaining to all forms of cycling within the City of Burlington
• Liaise with stakeholder groups to utilize resources and share information
• Promote cycling within Burlington.

How we conduct committee business

The Burlington Cycling Advisory Committee currently meets remotely using Zoom. Agendas are distributed electronically and posted on the City of Burlington online calendar.

Meeting frequency

Meetings take place once monthly, on the last Tuesday of the month beginning at 7 p.m. and are approximately two hours in length.

Committee composition

The Burlington Cycling Advisory Committee has twelve voting members and two alternates.

This appointment will expire Dec. 31, 2024, or until a successor is appointed.

Appointments will coincide with the term of Council.

Key qualifications

In addition to the general eligibility requirements set out in the Public Appointments Policy, members of the Burlington Cycling Advisory Committee should:

• Be familiar with virtual meeting technology
• Be able to work as a team to produce a yearly workplan and budget to meet the mandate of the committee
• Be familiar with cycling in the City of Burlington and be able to provide feedback, advice and insights to staff and council regarding cycling in the community
• Be prepared to participate in Burlington Cycling Advisory Committee meetings and in events planned by the committee within the community

Positions available: 3

The Heritage Burlington Advisory Committee was established by the City in accordance with legislative requirements under the Ontario Heritage Act. The Committee advises City Council on issues related to the preservation of Burlington’s built heritage, including the designation of properties of heritage interest. The Committee also has a mandate to promote all aspects of Burlington’s heritage to its residents and visitors alike.

Committee responsibilities

• Reviews and provides comments on development applications which may impact existing or potential heritage designations or properties
• Provides input to Planning staff on heritage policy matters
• Promotes public awareness of Burlington’s heritage
• Recommends appropriate designated property heritage grant applications
• Develops and applies the criteria and process for identifying and prioritizing cultural heritage resources that are worthy of conservation
• Oversees the maintenance of the Municipal Register in compliance with the Ontario Heritage Act.

How we conduct committee business

Heritage Burlington meetings are currently being conducted remotely using Zoom. Agendas are distributed electronically and posted on the City of Burlington online calendar.

Meeting frequency

Meetings take place monthly on the second Wednesday evening of the month beginning at 7 p.m. and are approximately two hours in length.

Committee composition

Heritage Burlington has thirteen voting members with up to four alternates.

This appointment will expire Dec. 31, 2024, or until a successor is appointed.

Appointments will coincide with the term of Council.

Key qualifications

In addition to the general eligibility requirements set out in the Public Appointment Policy, members of Heritage Burlington should possess:

• An interest in Burlington’s heritage and/or a background in architecture, carpentry, structural engineering, historical geography, planning, law or communications
• Knowledge of the Ontario Heritage Act
• Knowledge of issues related to the conservation and promotion of Burlington’s cultural heritage
• Experience working on a team
• Familiarity with virtual meeting technology.

The application period has closed.

Positions available: 6 members, 6 stakeholder members and 2 alternates

The Burlington Inclusivity Advisory Committee is an advisory committee reporting to Council through the Corporate Services, Strategy, Risk and Accountability Committee. The committee provides a monitoring and measuring role to help ensure that the City applies an inclusion lens to its policies, services and programs.

Committee responsibilities

• Provide advice and insights to Council and staff on the City of Burlington’s policies, services and programs pertaining to community residents’ inclusivity.
• Share information and best practices on inclusivity with community organizations and related City advisory committees
• Review and comment on inclusivity information provided to the city by community organizations
• Report annually to Council on the status of inclusivity at the City of Burlington utilizing a standardized assessment tool
• Assist City staff with the development and implementation of a community forum to gain greater understanding of inclusivity issues and to provide an educational venue for the Burlington community (every four years)

How we conduct committee business

The Inclusivity Advisory Committee meetings are currently being conducted remotely using Zoom. Agendas are distributed electronically and posted on the City of Burlington online calendar.

Meeting frequency

Meetings take place monthly on the third Friday of each month at 9 a.m. and are approximately two hours in length.

Committee composition

The Inclusivity Advisory Committee has twelve voting members with two alternates.

This appointment will expire Dec. 31, 2024, or until a successor is appointed.

Appointments will coincide with the term of Council.

Key qualifications

In addition to the general eligibility requirements set out in the Public Appointments Policy, members of the Inclusivity Advisory Committee should possess:

• An overall knowledge of community issues
• Issues facing inclusion and accessibility in the community and across the Greater Toronto/Hamilton area
• Knowledge of legislation, regulations, programs, and leading practices related to inclusivity
• Experience working on a team
• Familiarity with virtual meeting technology