CAO By-law

CAO By-law 149-2024 is a by-law to establish the position of the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) for The Corporation of the City of Windsor.

The CAO works closely with the Mayor and City Council, as well as City administration through its senior leaders to ensure Council's goals and objectives are achieved. This is realized by providing strategic leadership to the corporation, managing the daily operations of service delivery and leading ongoing improvements toward greater efficiency.

The CAO also:

  • Oversees the development and implementation of corporate policy and procedures
  • Recommends annual operating and capital budgets as part of the municipality's financial requirements
  • Approves a number of administrative reports on behalf of Council through the Delegation of Authority By-Law.
  • Oversees the appointment and employment of all City employees
  • Holds an oversight role in contract negotiations and labour relations

Hand with feather penHistorical Note

Although the City of Windsor had the power to appoint a City Manager in 1929, it did not do so until 1958. The roots of the City Administrator's Office can be found in the Board of Control. Established in 1937, the Board was an elected body of four controllers who were responsible for the operation of the municipality. By 1958, the Board was replaced by the City Manager form of government. In 1976, the title was changed to City Administrator.

Interesting Fact: Helga Reidel, CAO from September 2009 to March 2016, was the first female CAO for The Corporation of the City of Windsor.