Owen Sound Marks Local Government Week with Community Open House and Committee Call-Out

Next week, October 19–25, 2025, is Local Government (Gov) Week, and the City of Owen Sound is joining communities across Ontario in celebrating the people, programs, and services that make local government work every day.

From clean drinking water and safe roads to parks, recreation, waste collection, and emergency services, local governments play a vital role in enriching the daily lives of residents and visitors. Local Gov Week is a time to recognize that work—and to encourage everyone to learn more about how local government operates and how to get involved.

During Local Gov Week, the City of Owen Sound will host an in-person Open House on Monday, October 20, at the Bayshore Community Centre. Residents are invited to meet City Council representatives and staff in person, learn about City services, and ask questions directly. Local organizations will also be on-site to share their role in providing essential community services. The free, family-friendly event includes light refreshments and an accessible location.  Learn more about the Open House event at OurCity.OwenSound.ca

As part of Local Gov Week, the City is also encouraging residents to consider volunteering for one of several City committees currently seeking new members. Volunteers are required to attend meetings, read reports and provide feedback while helping to shape policies, programs, and decisions that impact everyday life in Owen Sound. 

Vacancies are available on all City Committees, appealing to a wide range of interests—from arts and culture to city services and infrastructure. Applications are due by Friday, November 7, and are available online at OwenSound.ca/CommitteeVacancies or at the Service Owen Sound counter in City Hall.

For more information, please contact communications@owensound.ca

Quotes:

“Local government is the level of government closest to residents and it touches almost every part of daily life. Local Gov Week is a great reminder of how much we can accomplish when residents, staff, and Council work together.”

-     Mayor Ian Boddy

Quick Facts:

• Owen Sound is one of 444 local municipalities in Ontario
• The City of Owen Sound will host an in-person Open House on Monday, October 20, at the Bayshore Community Centre.
• Volunteers can apply to be part of a City Committee by Friday, November 7, 2025.

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