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Toronto and Region Conservation Authority

The Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) delivers programs to further the conservation, restoration, development, and management of natural resources within its watersheds. Today, it owns more than 40,000 acres of land in the Toronto region, employs more than 475 full time employees, and coordinates more than 3,000 volunteers each year. The TRCA's area of jurisdiction includes 3,467 square kilometres (2,506 on land and 961 water-based) and is comprised of nine watersheds and six participating or member municipalities, including the City of Toronto. The TRCA is governed by the Ontario Conservation Authorities Act and the Ontario Clean Water Act.

Board Responsibilities

Board Members have the responsibilities of Directors of the corporation that is TRCA. While staff is responsible for the day-to-day operations, the Board of Directors is responsible for:

• TRCA’s strategic direction
• matters of governance
• ensuring compliance with applicable legislation
• ensuring appropriate policies are in place
• for the financial soundness of TRCA, and
• for the proper exercise of the powers of TRCA.

The Authority is responsible for setting strategic policy and for overseeing the business and affairs of the TRCA. To carry out its responsibilities, the Authority elects an Executive Committee and a Budget/Audit Advisory Board to make recommendations on specific matters.

The Authority has delegated some of the day-to-day management decisions to its Executive Committee.

Term of Office

The term of office for the public members appointed by Toronto City Council is four years. Members continue to serve until their successors are appointed.

Board Composition

The TRCA consists of 28 members composed of:

• 14 representatives from the City of Toronto appointed by City Council including 10 Members of Council and 4 members of the public
• 14 members representing the Regional Municipalities of Peel, Durham, and York, the Township of Adjala-Tosorontio, and the Town of Mono

Qualifications

In addition to the general eligibility requirements in the Public Appointments Policy, public members must demonstrate:

• broad interest in, and knowledge of, conservation and the management of natural resources
• knowledge of the natural resources in the regions under the TRCA's jurisdiction
• flexible schedules for attendance at meetings, tours, special events, and other activities relating to the Authority's work
• ability to actively participate in the decision-making process
• interest in, and ability to, be an advocate of the Authority's programs, goals, and objectives

Meetings

The Authority meets 11 times a year, usually on the fourth Friday of each month. All meetings are held at TRCA's head office, 101 Exchange Avenue in Vaughan, Ontario, starting at 9:30 a.m. unless otherwise noted on the agenda. Public members also participate in other committees and advisory bodies which may meet 6 to 8 times a year.

Remuneration

Board members receive a per diem for attendance at meetings. Board Members can also apply for reimbursement for reasonable travel expenses incurred for the purpose of attending meetings and/or functions on behalf of the Board of Directors.

Related links

• Toronto and Region Conservation Authority website