GFOA ALBERTA
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Read the GFOA Alberta Newsletter
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July 2026
Hello everyone,
As summer settles in, I hope you can take a well-deserved break and enjoy some time to recharge before another busy season. Carol took the time to make me see an audiologist, but I think I’ll need a second opinion. Why on earth would I need a heron egg?
I’d like to share a few highlights from a productive trip to the GFOA Annual Conference in Chicago. GFOA Alberta was well represented by our Board and staff, and it was a valuable opportunity to connect with colleagues from across North America, meet with industry partners, and explore new ideas that will help us continue delivering value to our members. We also met with vendors and partners as we look at new opportunities to enhance our programs and member benefits.
GFOA President, Travis Nosko was able to have meaningful meetings with other GFOA presidents from the Pacific region, specifically California and Alaska. Stay tuned, there are some exciting initiatives in the works. One of the highlights of the conference was seeing our own Past President, Alvin Allim, elected to the GFOA USA & Canada Executive Board. This is a tremendous accomplishment and a proud moment for Alvin and GFOA Alberta. Alvin’s leadership, dedication, and commitment to the municipal finance profession have made a lasting impact in Alberta…
June 2026
Hello everyone,
“The other day my wife Carol suddenly said, “You weren’t even listening, were you?” I thought to myself “That’s a pretty strange way to start off a conversation!”
As I reflect on my time in Calgary, I simply want to say thank you.
Thank you to our delegates, speakers, sponsors, exhibitors, volunteers, board members, and partners for making the 2026 GFOA Alberta Conference such a success. It was incredible to see so many familiar faces alongside many first-time attendees joining us from across Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba the Northwest Territories, Nunavut, and beyond.
Over the course of the conference, we shared ideas, tackled challenges, explored emerging trends, celebrated achievements, and strengthened the connections that make this profession and association so valuable. The conversations happening in the hallways, breakout rooms, trade show floor, and networking events are what truly bring this conference to life.
We also had many valuable conversations with our sponsors, partners, and members about the challenges municipalities continue to navigate and the professional development opportunities that can help support that work.
May 2026
Hello everyone,
You know what they say… April snow squalls with whiteout conditions and wind gusts up to 80 km/h bring May flowers.
While we wait for those flowers, we’re looking forward to coming together in Calgary at the Hyatt for this year’s GFOA Alberta Conference. The program is shaping up to be a strong one, and I encourage you to take it all in and be sure to stop me and say hello. I always enjoy connecting with members and hearing what’s on your mind.
A reminder that our Annual General Meeting will take place on May 21 during the conference. You would have received an email with the AGM package earlier this week.
We also still have a few golf spots available if you’re looking to squeeze that into your conference experience, it’s always a great way to connect in a more relaxed setting. I am delighted to see the registrations for the per-conference workshop, PSAB 1202 is a timely topic.
Following the conference, Sheila and I will be heading to Saskatchewan for the UMAAS Conference in early June, continuing to build relationships and share insights across our municipal finance community.
April 2026
Hello everyone,
Just yesterday Carol asked if I have seen the dog bowl…I said I didn’t even know it could!
As we forge through a busy year-end season for municipal finance departments, I want to take a moment to connect and share a few updates from GFOA Alberta.
Our Annual Conference is just around the corner, and we’re looking forward to welcoming many of you. This year’s program is shaping up to be one of our strongest yet, with a great lineup of speakers, timely topics, and plenty of opportunities to connect with peers from across most of Western Canada, including two Territories!
A few reminders as you plan your time with us:
The pre-conference workshop and golf tournament will take place the day before the conference officially begins. It’s a great way to ease into the event, earn CPD, and connect in a more informal setting. We’ll also be hosting our Annual General Meeting (AGM) during the conference and encourage all members to attend and be part of the conversation.
If you haven’t booked your stay yet, please note that the Hyatt host hotel is now sold out. However, we do have a group rate available at the nearby Marriott, which is conveniently connected to the Hyatt via pedway, meaning you won’t need to step outside to access conference activities.
March 2026
Hello everyone,
I tried to make a budget joke… but it didn’t balance. Now that I have your attention…
As we move further into the year, the energy around GFOA Alberta continues to build and it’s exciting to see the momentum across so many of our initiatives. Thanks to everyone who has renewed their member registrations, and I see that many of you took advantage of the GFOA USA/Canada membership as well.
Registration for the 2026 Annual Conference in Calgary (May 19–22) is filling quickly. The Hyatt is already sold out, which speaks to the strength of our community and the demand for this event. If you haven’t booked your accommodations yet, don’t worry we have secured excellent group rates at the Calgary Marriott Downtown and the Fairmont Palliser, both just steps away and connected to the conference experience.
Our trade show is now completely sold out with 45 booths, and we are grateful for the incredible support from our returning and new partners who help us deliver such a high-value experience for delegates.
A reminder that this year the conference begins on a Tuesday, with an optional pre-conference workshop on PSAB 1202, followed by our signature golf tournament, a great way to kick off the week with learning and connection.
Febuary 2026
Hello everyone,
Before we get going, I must tell you that science is amazing, I am reading a book about anti-gravity…it is impossible to put down!
Conference season is officially underway, pick any day over the next three months and there is a conference you can attend. However, I am pleased to share that registration is now open for the 2026 GFOA Alberta Annual Conference, taking place May 19 to 22 in downtown Calgary at the Hyatt. This is the only conference you need to attend, especially as a CPA looking for the post-designation credits. The program is shaping up to be another strong one, with timely topics, engaging speakers, and valuable opportunities to connect with peers from across the region and afar (our reach is growing!).
Before looking ahead, I would like to thank everyone who has already renewed their GFOA Alberta membership. It has been great to see such strong engagement from municipalities across the province and especially encouraging to see how many have chosen to opt in to the partner membership with GFOA of the United States and Canada, further expanding access to professional development, research, and networking opportunities. Anyone looking for more information regarding the benefits of joining both associations please contact us or GFOA.
January 2026
Hello everyone,
Welcome to a new year with GFOA Alberta! We’re excited for what lies ahead in 2026.We have a strong slate of professional development opportunities planned over thecoming months, including webinars, the CRA series, and our new Bootcampsessions covering AI and Excel, designed to deliver practical, relevant learning forfinance professionals at every level, and all while earning CPD credits.
Hopefully you all had a rejuvenating holiday break and braved the weather to celebratewith friends and family. My new year’s resolution this year is to get better at pretendingto know the words to “Auld Lang Syne”.
Annual membership renewal emails were sent on January 2, and we sincerely thankeveryone who has already renewed. This year also marks an exciting enhancement tomember value, with the option to add a GFOA of the US and Canada membership at asignificant discount. This partnership gives GFOA Alberta members expanded accessto international learning, research, and networking, while strengthening theprofessional community you’re part of.
We’re also looking ahead to our Annual Conference in Calgary, May 19–22, and it’salready shaping up to be another exceptional event. Watch for conference registrationopening soon.
December 2025
Hello everyone,
As 2025 ends, I want to thank all of our members for another fantastic year of learning,connection, and collaboration.
Lucky for all of you I am not one to be waxing poetically. But I will take a quick momentto reflect on 2025. Our membership has grown exponentially, not only in Alberta butnow in Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Northwest Territories. We are more engaged withGFOA of the United States and Canada and MFOA building on the expertise theyshare. We have also made inroads with post-secondary institutions and will continue tobuild awareness regarding co-op programs and the opportunities to hire young peopleenthusiastic about finance. Finally, I will reflect on the success our conference hasenjoyed. Each year it has grown not only in attendance but also in the number of hourswe offer (especially valuable to those looking for credits). We have also had a greatresponse from sponsors and exhibitors that want to partner with us (40 exhibitors inLethbridge)!
Getting back to the present, President Alvin Alim and I had the opportunity to attend theAlberta Municipalities Conference this fall, it was great to reconnect with peers, makenew partner connections, and share what GFOA Alberta has in store for 2026.
November 2025
Hello everyone,
We know it’s budget season so here’s a little levity before the spreadsheets take over… ”Why did the finance officer take up gardening? Because they wanted to see their budget grow!
I want to thank each of you for your continued engagement and commitment to advancing municipal finance in Alberta and beyond.
Membership renewals for 2026 will be sent out shortly. We appreciate your ongoing support as we continue to grow our programs, professional development offerings, and cross-provincial partnerships.
We’re already looking ahead to our 2026 GFOA Alberta Conference, happening May 19–22, 2026, at the Hyatt Regency Calgary, with additional accommodations available at the Fairmont Palliser and Marriott Downtown.
This year, we’re kicking things off with a pre-event workshop and our signature golftournament, followed by three days of outstanding sessions, networking, and collaboration. We are reaching out to our sponsors and exhibitors with first right of refusal, while also welcoming new partners including those from Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and the Northwest Territories to join our growing network of finance professionals.
October 2025
Hi everyone,
The other day I bought a thesaurus, but when I got home and opened it, all the pages were blank. I have no word to describe how angry I am.
On a more serious note, as we head into the final stretch of the year, I know many of you are knee-deep in budget season and for some, navigating what we fondly refer to as “silly season” with municipal elections on the horizon. It’s a busy and important time, and we appreciate the critical role each of you plays in keeping your organizations running smoothly.
Even amidst the busyness, I encourage you to carve out a bit of time for professional development because investing in your knowledge now pays dividends when it matters most. We have an excellent lineup of webinars this fall, including:
THIS WEEK! Streamlining Municipal Reporting with ARLO: Presented by FH Black
Nov 6: Budgeting and Planning for Public Sector Organizations: Hosted by Pellera
We’re delighted to work with these partners and new potential partners to deliver valuable content and PD opportunities to our members.
September 2025
Hi everyone,
But first – My wife was shaking her head, again. Last night I made a chicken salad, apparently, they prefer grain!
We’re coming back from our recent Board Retreat and venue tour in Calgary with a lot of excitement for the year ahead. We’ve locked in the dates for the 2026 GFOA Alberta Conference and we’re shaking things up! Next year, we’ll be starting on a Tuesday and wrapping up on a Friday (May 19–22, 2026), giving you more time at the start of your week before diving into the networking, learning, and connections our conference is known for.
We are also considering having a session(s) Tuesday morning with golf taking place in the afternoon. Trying to maximize CPD credits for those that need them! We’re also talking to new potential partners , both for the conference and for professional development to ensure we keep bringing fresh perspectives, high-value content, and innovative ways to support municipal finance officers across Alberta, Saskatchewan, and beyond. The Calgary 2026 conference will provide room for 45 exhibitors, (new high for us) we anticipate space will be sold out quickly based on last year’s participation and waiting list.
August 2025
Hi everyone,
As we move through summer, I’m excited to share a quick update on what’s happening at GFOA Alberta.
But first – Why did the farmer get promoted? Because he was outstanding in his field — just like our members!
Ok, in all seriousness, we’ve now scheduled our professional development opportunities right through to Spring 2026. This means you can budget and plan ahead, which was one of the key requests we heard loud and clear from members. While we introduced this new approach in the last newsletter, the full schedule is now online and further in this email, and registration links are being added as sessions are confirmed. The first two sessions are already open for registration and we encourage you to sign up early. You can register for the Deloitte session here and the Tantus session here.
We’re also pleased to be offering a series of free sessions from Michael Monk (CRA), diving into GST and other key topics for municipal finance professionals. These sessions are a great resource and completely free to members.
July 2025
Hello Everyone,
We’ve been soaking up more than just sunshine! GFOA Alberta recently returned from the GFOA International Conference in Washington, D.C., where we made some incredible connections and gathered great ideas for our 2026 conference. It was affirming to hear that we’re not only aligned with national trends in municipal finance education, but we’re helping lead them.
Now we’re bringing that momentum home with big updates to your professional development experience, including a full-year schedule of PD offerings, shorter sessions, and more accessible pricing. Members get more, and it’s never been easier to track your CPD credits!
If you’re only interested in PD and CPD credits, we encourage you to sign up for our new PD Insider newsletter where you can skip the….
June 2025
Hi everyone,
Before I get started, have you ever noticed the evening news begins with “Good evening,” and then proceeds to tell you why it isn’t?
Thank you to everyone who joined us in Lethbridge for the 2025 GFOA Alberta Conference!
It was an energizing few days full of great conversations, inspiring sessions, and the kind of connection that reminds us why this community is so important.
The weather for our golf game was as close to perfect as one could ask for! For a few of you that remember back in 2010 it was a cold windy day at Paradise Canyon.
I thank Lethbridge Tourism for all their support in the planning of our conference. I heard many favourable comments about the City from delegates that took the time to do a little touring.
May 2025
Hello GFOA Members,
Hi everyone, I was excited as I recently received an email about MAPS spelt backwards,
it turned out to be SPAM ☹
We’re fresh back from Saskatoon where we connected with hundreds of CAOs, council members, and finance professionals at SUMA—sharing the story of GFOA Alberta and welcoming new faces to our growing community. Because when it comes to supporting strong municipal finance… we know no borders!
Conference is SOLD OUT! Are You Ready?
We can’t wait to see you in June! The 2025 Conference is shaping up to be one of our best ever. Here are a few important reminders:
April 2025
Hello GFOA AB Members,
At GFOA Alberta, we’re a community driving innovation, professional growth, and stronger municipal leadership. This year’s conference in Lethbridge is shaping up to be another great event. We have sold out the exhibitor space, 40 exhibitors! This is the most exhibitors we have ever showcased at a conference.
In addition, a big thanks to all our sponsors, most all sponsors have returned to support GFOA Alberta for another year.
We are not quite there yet, but we may be required to cap registration as well! At this point we have approximately 63 more registrations than the 2010 Lethbridge conference (that was a great conference as well, remember Barry emceeing?).
Speaking of Lethbridge I recommend you take the opportunity to travel there to experience the city. I was amazed at how much the city has changed in the last 15 years and I usually don’t notice anything!
March 2025
Hello GFOA Members,
Some sad news on the Weather Channel last week, apparently the tornado and hurricane have are no longer a couple because their relationship was going around in circles!
Conference Update
Now that we’ve got that out of the way (editor’s statement not mine), I’m excited to share that conference registration is selling fast, and we only have four exhibitor spots left! Be sure to check out the amazing program we’ve lined up, including great keynotes and breakout sessions designed to bring you valuable insights. This year’s breakout sessions will cover three areas of interest for our members; finance, information technology, and people. These categories are sure to provide valuable professional development to most everyone attending the conference.
We’re also kicking off the event with a golf tournament on June 1 at 1:30 PM at Paradise Canyon.
February 2025
Hello members!
Winter came with a vengeance to Alberta this year! I had to quit using my Tim’s loyalty card to scrape my windshield, I was only getting 10% off. I hope you made it through January which felt like a rollercoaster. Spring is in our sights, and I am excited for the year ahead.
Conference registration is officially open, and hotel rooms are booking up fast! Only a few exhibitor spots left. We have an incredible program lined up, offering 13 CPA credits—and did you know that, including your hotel stay, that works out to approximately $89 per credit? Take advantage of group rates and special pricing for first-time attendees to make the most of this opportunity.
Not sure if I have mentioned this before, but check out Paradise Canyon Golf Resort. Those of you that golfed with us in 2010 can attest of the course’s beauty (also you can ask Barry!)
January 2025
Happy New Year, GFOA Alberta members!
We’re kicking off 2025 with exciting updates and opportunities for you, before I get to those, over the holidays I visited the air and space museum … there was nothing there!
GFOA Alberta Conference Registration: Registration is open!
Please note: Day 1 & 2: Program will take place at the Agri-Hub (June 2 & 3).
June 3 Gala & Final Half-Day: Hosted at the Sandman Signature Hotel (June 4).
Be sure to book your hotels early:
SANDMAN SIGNATURE GROUP RATE LINK
FAIRFIELD INN GROUP RATE LINK
HAMPTON INN GROUP RATE LINK
December 2024
Dear Members,
As I watch the snow blowing outside of my window it reminds me; what did one snowman say to the other? Do you smell carrots? It is truly amazing how the end of another year approaches, I’m thrilled to reflect on what we’ve accomplished together in 2024 and share exciting plans for the year ahead.
Celebrating 2024 Successes and the Future
This year has been one of growth and innovation for GFOA Alberta:
Membership Growth
We’ve welcomed new members from across Alberta and beyond,
strengthening our network, at last count we are at 1216 members!
November 2024
Hello GFOA Alberta members!
I can’t believe we just finished handing out the Halloween candy! That reminds me, why do vampires not want to become investment bankers? They hate stakeholders! I wanted to share some updates and exciting developments within GFOA Alberta.
Membership:
Keep an eye out in November for 2025 membership auto-renewal invoices; payment is due January 1st, 2025. Your membership provides access to benefits, networking and learning opportunities.
Speaking of networking and learning, we are hoping to line up more in-person professional development opportunities in the new year.
October 2024
Hello GFOA Alberta members!
Once again, the seasons are changing. Beautiful colours outside, step away from budget for a moment and enjoy them. I usually say autumn instead of fall. Sometimes it can be my downautumn!
We are thrilled to report that the recent Metrix ERP workshop had a fantastic turnout, with many of you joining us in person. It was great to see such high engagement, and we appreciate your participation. We hope to plan more in-person sessions around the province for the upcoming year.
I accompanied President Alvin Allim to the Alberta Municipalities Conference,
September 2024
Hello GFOA Alberta members!
Dear Members,
I hope this message finds you well. As we transition into the latter part of the year, I wanted to share some exciting updates and upcoming opportunities that you won’t want to miss. This edition is a bit longer than usual, but jam packed with great info!
Webinars and In-Person Workshops
We’re thrilled to announce a series of webinars and in-person workshops designed to support your professional growth and keep you informed about the latest news in finance.
August 2024
Hello GFOA Alberta members!
I hope this message finds you well and enjoying your summer! We have some exciting updates to share with you regarding our upcoming events and initiatives:
Webinars and In-Person Workshops: We are bringing a series of webinars and in-person workshops this fall designed to enhance your professional development. These sessions will cover a range of topics relevant to our field and provide valuable insights and practical skills.
Be sure to check out the latest updates!
July 2024
Greetings, GFOA Alberta members!
We are excited to share highlights from our recent participation in the LGAA (Local Government Administration Association) conference held in beautiful Canmore. It was a fantastic opportunity for our team to connect with many of our current members, engage in insightful discussions, and forge new relationships.
During the conference, we were delighted to meet several potential new members who showed great interest in joining our association. It’s always encouraging to see our community grow and to welcome fresh perspectives and ideas that can help us advance our mission.
June 2024
Hello GFOA Alberta Delegates, Sponsors and Vendors,
For those of you who attended the GFOA Alberta conference, and others) GFOA BC, CAMA, FCM) I hope you have recovered after a busy time and got some rest. A huge shoutout to our sponsors and vendors for helping make the annual conference another great success!
On behalf of GFOA Alberta I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to all of you for attending the annual Conference. It was a pleasure to connect with so many of you and witness the strong interest in the sessions we provided. We are proud to have offered a variety of great learning opportunities during the conference. Rest assured, session verifications will be uploaded to your member profiles in the coming weeks.
May 2024
Hello GFOA Alberta Members,
I hope this message finds you in good spirits. The warm spring has allowed farmers around here to get most of their crops in already. Speaking of farmers, our neighbor’s cows got into the cannabis farm – this worried me because the steaks were never higher!
As we march closer to our highly anticipated annual conference, I wanted to take a moment to express our thanks to our generous sponsors whose support has once again made this event possible. With just a few weeks remaining until the conference kicks off, excitement is mounting!Here’s a sneak peek at what you can expect:
April 2024
Hello GFOA Alberta Finance Leaders,
Time to flip the calendars again! Geese are here stomping on the ice letting us know it should be spring. Speaking of April, what did the mama cow say to her baby after he stayed up too late on April Fools’ Day? “It’s pasture bedtime.”
Less than two months until the annual GFOA Alberta Conference! We are SOLD-OUT and have approximately 20 rooms left at the Fantasyland Hotel for those of you interested. It appears there are only theme rooms left but, we secured a discount rate so they are still affordable in comparison to other hotels. We’re thrilled to announce that our trade show booths are officially sold out as well!
March 2024
Hello GFOA Alberta Finance Leaders,
Why don’t penguins like talking to strangers in March? They find it hard to break the ice! I can’t believe it is March already and only a few months until we meet up at the annual conference. I know you are all busy, so I will try and keep this short.
We have had amazing response this year from sponsors and exhibitors, (new and returning). We can’t wait to show you what we have planned for you over the 2.5 days! Speaking of plans, we hope you will join us at the tournament on June 2 to kick-off the conference, we have booked round-trip shuttle for golfers. Golf registration also includes a supper this year.
February 2024
Hello GFOA Alberta Members,
I hope this message finds you in good health and high spirits. How about the beginning of January, it was so cold outside that my neighbour said when they milked their cows, they got ice cream! After that knee slapper I wanted to take a moment to update you on some important matters and upcoming events.
Membership Renewal: We hope that you have been enjoying the many benefits that come with being a valued member of our association. If you haven’t already, please take a moment to renew your membership for the upcoming year.
January 2024
Happy New Year GFOA Alberta Members,
The first week of the new year always reminds me of how I never returned my Y2K generator, and it is still in my garage. It also makes me think of all the opportunities and challenges ahead of us. I hope you had some rest and relaxation over the holidays and you’re ready to tackle 2024!
December 2023
Hello Members,
I hope this last message of 2023 finds you well. As the GFOA Alberta continues to thrive, we want to express our gratitude for your ongoing support and participation as a member.
2024 Membership
As the end of the year approaches, it’s time to renew your annual membership.
Membership ensures that you maintain access to a wealth of resources, networking opportunities, and exclusive benefits that will enhance your professional development.
November 2023
Hello Members,
I can’t believe it is November already which sadly, means that the golf season has ended for me. However, that frees up a lot of time for conference planning and building partnerships to benefit you, the member. On October 19, we attended the AVSA Conference as an Exhibitor (Association of Summer Villages of Alberta) to connect with potential members, while promoting GFOA Alberta. Speaking of partnerships, if you haven’t already heard, we are hosting professional development webinars with Metrix Group and PSD Citywide.
August 2023
Hello GFOA Alberta Members,
Time is flying by – I can’t believe it is August already! We have begun work on the 2024 conference that will be hosted in Edmonton at FantasylandHotel June 2-6, 2024, and we are scouting some facilities next week for 2025 and 2026locations.
We also have some great online learning opportunities for you starting in September.
June 2023
A Message as We Move Forward
I would like to express my sincere thanks and appreciation for being allowed to serve as GFOA Alberta President for the 2020-2023 terms. It has truly been an honor to represent the association, even through times of challenges and change that 2020 brought upon us. I am proud of the inter-organizational connections that I have played a part in building. I am confident we will continue to see growth at the annual GFOA conference, in our professional development offerings and our membership base.
May 2023
Hello GFOA Alberta Members,
We are very excited about the upcoming conference! A big thank you to all the GFOA sponsors, both returning and new sponsors – without these partnerships, we could not do the important work that we do, including this vital annual event. Sponsors play an important role in supporting our work and our members and clients across Alberta. Exhibitors ensure that our members have access to the many local government service providers that help them serve their communities.
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About GFOA Alberta
GFOA Alberta is a professional organization whose purpose is to enhance the practice of governmental finance in the Province of Alberta. Our objectives include:
- Promote networking opportunities for all government finance officials within all levels of government
- Support and promotion of Provincial, Canadian and International GFOA Conferences and training programs
- Communication with membership on financial issues
- Liaison with Municipal Affairs
- Enhance the profile of GFOA Alberta.
Our Association is affiliated with the International Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) and maintains contact with its staff to promote training opportunities and participation in annual international GFOA conferences.
Quick Connect to GFOA Alberta
Quick Connect to GFOA Alberta
About Us
GFOA Alberta is a professional organization whose purpose is to enhance the practice of governmental finance in the Province of Alberta. Our objectives include:
- Promote networking opportunities for all government finance officials within all levels of government
- Support and promotion of Provincial, Canadian and International GFOA Conferences and training programs
- Communication with membership on financial issues
- Liaison with Municipal Affairs
- Enhance the profile of GFOA Alberta.
Our Association is affiliated with the International Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) and maintains contact with its staff to promote training opportunities and participation in annual international GFOA conferences.