2026 Ontario Big City Leaders Forum Windsor

EDCO Professional Development Event 

June 10-11, 2026

Thank you to all of our attendee's and speakers for joining us for our Big City Leaders Forum. Thank you to the City of Windsor and Invest WindsorEssex for co-hosting this amazing event. We look forward to next year!

See some highlights in photos below.

The City of Windsor in partnership with Invest WindsorEssex, are hosting EDCO's Ontario Big City Leaders Forum on June 10- 11, 2026!

Don't miss the opportunity to engage with industry leaders, city professionals, and industry experts at the EDCO Ontario Big City Leaders Forum. This two-day event promises to provide invaluable strategic insights, foster meaningful connections, and offer actionable takeaways to address the most pressing challenges facing Ontario's urban centers.

With so much to explore and connect over, the EDCO Ontario Big City Leaders Forum is the perfect opportunity to network, gain new perspectives, and take away actionable strategies to apply in your own city.

Agenda:

Day 1 – June 10th, 2026

8:30 AM – 9:00 AM – Registration and Networking

9:00 AM – 9:15 AM – Welcome Remarks

9:15 AM – 10:15 AM – Strengthening the Core: A Collaborative Blueprint for Downtown Renewal – Panel

Windsor's "Strengthening the Core" initiative is a bold, multi-pillar strategy to revitalize the downtown and surrounding urban core. This session will explore how the seven pillars—Safe Streets, High Standards, Healthy Spaces. Place-Making, Vibrant District, "Our Downtown", Stronger Together—are being activated through deep collaboration between municipal departments, local organizations, and front-line services. Panelists will share insights on the H4 initiative addressing homelessness, economic development leadership, and the Downtown Windsor BIA's role in activating public spaces. The Windsor Police Service will speak to their role in enhancing safety and community engagement. Learn how Windsor is aligning policy, partnerships, and place-making to build a resilient and thriving core.

Moderator: Matthew Johnson, Executive Director, Economic Development, City of Windsor

Panelists:

Jason Toner, Vice President of Marketing & Communications, Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island (TWEPI)

Dana Paladino, Commissioner of Human and Health Services, City of Windsor

Jason Crowley, Chief of Police, Windsor Police Service

Renaldo Agostino, City Council Ward 3, City of Windsor

Chris MacLeod, Chair, Downtown Windsor BIA

Councillor Renaldo Agostino came to Downtown Windsor from the city of Toronto in the early 90s with his twin brother Remo Agostino. Since then, he has owned or operated many successful businesses in the core. He has organized and produced some of the largest community events in our city, including Jurassic Park Windsor during the Raptors championship run, along with multiple concerts at Festival Plaza and events at Caesars Windsor. Renaldo has been and will continue to be the ultimate advocate for Downtown Windsor.

Renaldo graduated from The University of Windsor with a Bachelor of Arts in communication studies and attended St. Clair College's advertising program. He spends time as a volunteer coach and volunteer executive director at Border City Boxing Club on Drouillard Road where he trains champions and mentors Windsor's youth. Renaldo's focus for this term is the safety and the prosperity of Downtown Windsor. He loves and believes in this city, in its people and especially in Downtown Windsor. Let's go!

Dana Paladino is the Commissioner of Human and Health Services for the Corporation and has held this role since May 2025. Dana began her career as a lawyer working in private practice, both in Toronto and in Windsor.  Dana then joined the Corporation in 2010 as Legal Counsel.  From there, she went on to hold a number of roles including Supervisor of Risk Management, and Manager of Risk and Insurance.  She was appointed Deputy City Solicitor in 2019. In 2022, Dana took on the role of Executive Director of Human Resources and in 2023, served as Chief Executive Officer of the Windsor Public Library.  Later that same year, she was selected to lead Corporate Services in various capacities, which she did until 2025 before stepping into her current role.  Dana holds a degree in Industrial Engineering and a law degree, both from the University of Windsor.

Chris MacLeod is a dynamic and results-driven real estate broker based in Downtown Windsor, with over 15 years of experience in real estate sales, development, urban revitalization, and property management. As the Broker of Record at Realty One Group Iconic, he is committed to exceeding client expectations and has a proven track record in residential and commercial real estate sales, public-private partnerships, and stakeholder engagement. Skilled in navigating complex development projects and collaborating with municipal officials, Chris has played a key role in urban revitalization, including his involvement in the development of The Hive on Pelissier. He currently serves as the Chair of the Downtown Windsor Business Improvement Association and is a member of the Windsor & Essex County Association of Realtors Housing Affordability Task Force. A dedicated community servant, Chris is passionate about fostering private/public partnerships for the betterment of the local community while advocating for economic development, downtown revitalization, and inclusive affordable housing solutions.

Chief Jason Crowley has been a member of the Windsor Police Service since 1993 and Chief of Police since 2025. Prior to his appointment as Chief, he worked in units across the organization, including 15 years in the Emergency Services Unit at three different ranks. He also served as operational commander for the 2022 Ambassador Bridge Blockade, managing public safety and upholding Charter rights during a multi-day international incident. As Chief, his goal is to deliver high-quality policing services, strengthen community relationships, and equip officers and civilian professionals to meet the community's evolving needs.

Jason Toner is the Vice President of Marketing & Communications at Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island, where he leads destination marketing, brand development, and strategic communications that position the region as a must-visit destination. With more than a decade of experience promoting Windsor Essex to local, national, and international audiences, Jason has played a key role in growing the region's tourism profile through innovative campaigns, major events, and collaborative partnerships with industry stakeholders.

Matthew Johnson is the Executive Director of Economic Development and Climate Change for the City of Windsor, where he leads many of the city's major initiatives related to investment attraction, housing development, downtown revitalization, and environmental sustainability.

Matthew has over 15 years of experience working with industry, developers, government partners, and community organizations to support job creation and attract new investment. His work has been closely tied to several of the region's largest economic development projects and partnerships, helping position Windsor as a key hub for advanced manufacturing, clean energy, and cross-border trade.

Matthew holds a Master of Public Service from the University of Waterloo and has a background in public sector leadership, economic development strategy, and community development. He also serves as Treasurer for Workforce Windsor-Essex, the region's workforce planning board.

Having grown up in this region and now raising his family here, Matthew is passionate about building a stronger community and economy, and about helping create opportunities so the next generation can build their lives and careers here as well

10:15 AM – 10:30 AM – Coffee and Networking Break

10:30 AM – 11:30 AM – Rediscovering Regional Tourism

From vibrant urban districts to serene wine country, Essex County offers a diverse and compelling visitor experience. In this session, Gordon Orr will explore how regional tourism strategies are evolving to showcase the full spectrum of assets, from Walkerville's heritage charm to the wineries and natural beauty of the county. Learn how collaborative marketing, destination development, and cross-sector partnerships are driving tourism growth and economic impact across the region. This session will highlight why promoting the region as a unified destination is key to attracting visitors, investment, and talent.

Speaker: Gordon Orr, CEO, Invest WindsorEssex & Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island

Gordon Orr is the CEO of both Invest WindsorEssex and Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island, bringing more than 30 years of leadership in tourism, hospitality, and economic development. A Windsor native and University of Windsor graduate, he has guided multiple award‑winning organizations, built strong regional partnerships, and advanced a unified vision for economic and tourism growth across Windsor‑Essex. His career includes senior roles in destination management and the hotel sector, and he has been recognized with honours such as TIAO's Lifetime Achievement Award and Ontario's 25‑Year Volunteer Service Award. Gordon also contributes extensively through board and advisory roles with regional, provincial, and national organizations.

11:30 AM – 1:00 PM – Lunch and Networking

1:30 PM – Tour 1: Waterfront Industry & Infrastructure – A Cruise to the Gordie Howe Bridge

Embark on a narrated boat tour along Windsor's dynamic waterfront, culminating in a close-up view of the transformative Gordie Howe International Bridge. Led by Steve Salmons, this cruise will highlight key industrial operations, logistics hubs, and waterfront redevelopment initiatives that are shaping Windsor's economic future. From port facilities to cross-border infrastructure, attendees will gain a unique perspective on the region's strategic assets and the collaborative efforts driving growth along the Detroit River.

Location: Windsor Premier Cruises
Commentary by: Steve Salmons, President & CEO, Windsor Port Authority and Peter Berry, Vice- President Operations and Harbour Master, Windsor Port Authority

This tour is proudly presented by Invest WindsorEssex and Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island (TWEPI)

5:00 – 6:30 PM – Networking Reception

Join us for an evening of connection, conversation, and meaningful networking with colleagues from across the economic development community.
Location:

Home | Cucina 360

Cucina 360

58 Chatham Street West
Windsor, Ontario

Day 2: June 11, 2026

9:00 AM – Welcome Remarks 

9:15 AM – 10:30 AM – Unlocking Housing Solutions: Tools, Partnerships, and Place Based Strategies

As municipalities respond to growing housing demand and evolving affordability pressures, the conversation is shifting toward a more integrated approach to housing delivery. This panel will bring together municipal leaders to explore a range of housing solutions and how local context, site selection, and community impacts shape outcomes.

Panelists will share lessons learned from delivering housing in a variety of settings, such as downtowns, established neighbourhoods, and greenfield areas, and discuss how planning policy, land readiness, incentives, and partnerships can be aligned to support success.  Designed as an interactive discussion, this session will invite panelists to reflect on what has worked, what has not, and how municipalities can adapt their housing strategies as funding programs evolve.

Moderator: Lindsay Clark, Team Lead, Western Municipal Services Office, Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing\

Panelists:

Joe Baker, Manager, Land Development & Growth, City of Windsor

Chris MacLeod, Broker of Record, Realty ONE Group Iconic

Taylor Putnam, Head of Policy, Strategy, and Partnerships, Building Ontario Fund

Joe Baker is a strategic municipal leader and licensed Professional Engineer with more than 15 years of experience advancing land development, growth management, and economic development for the City of Windsor.  He currently serves as Manager of Land Development and Growth, where he leads initiatives that expand the City's employment lands, support investment‑ready development, and align planning, infrastructure, housing, and economic priorities to enable sustainable growth.

Joe's career with the City spans several senior leadership roles — including Deputy Chief Building Official/Manager of Permit Services and Senior Economic Development Officer — giving him a uniquely comprehensive understanding of municipal development processes and cross‑departmental collaboration.  His technical foundation includes a Bachelor of Applied Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Windsor, complementing his P.Eng. designation and strengthening his ability to bridge engineering, planning, and economic strategy.

Known for his strong work ethic, collaborative approach, and commitment to public service, Joe is widely respected by colleagues and external partners alike.  His leadership continues to shape Windsor's growth, strengthen its investment readiness, and support the City's long‑term economic resilience.

10:30 AM – 10:45 AM – Coffee and Networking Break

10:45 AM – 12:00 PM – Powering Investment: FDI & the Energy Supply Chain Revolution – Panel

Windsor has emerged as a national leader in electric vehicle manufacturing and innovation, anchored by the multi-billion-dollar investment in the NextStar Energy battery plant. This session will spotlight how strategic foreign direct investment (FDI) has catalyzed the development of a robust battery and energy supply chain in the region, creating jobs, attracting suppliers, and transforming the local economy. Windsor continues to attract FDI in advanced manufacturing, agribusiness, and emerging technologies. Hear from provincial and industry leaders about how Windsor's success story can inform investment attraction strategies across Ontario.

Moderator: Ed Dawson, Senior Director, Innovation and Trade, Invest WindsorEssex

Panelists:

Max Jung, P.Eng, MASc, Investment Attraction Program Manager, Invest WindsorEssex

Khawar Nasim – Chief Executive Officer, Invest Ontario

Brett Hillock, Chief Operating Officer, NextStar Energy

Max Jung is an Investment Attraction Program Manager at Invest WindsorEssex, where he works closely with global investors to advance foreign direct investment in electric vehicles, battery supply chains, and advanced manufacturing. Max is a Professional Engineer of Ontario and with his background in automotive engineering, he brings a technical perspective to economic development and investment strategy. His work has supported major regional growth initiatives, including projects tied to NextStar Energy and the broader EV ecosystem in Windsor-Essex.

Khawar Nasim is a seasoned leader with more than 25 years of international experience across the private and public sectors.

As Vice President of Business Development, Khawar played a foundational role in leading the Invest Ontario team to secure transformative investments across sectors, driving long-term economic growth in the province.

Prior to joining Invest Ontario, Khawar led one of Canada's largest diplomatic missions serving as Acting Consul General in New York. His extensive overseas career also included senior postings in Rome, Barcelona, The Hague and Minneapolis. In the private sector, Khawar spent four years in Toronto as Vice President of External Affairs at Yamana Gold.

Khawar holds a Master's Degree in Business Administration from McGill University and a Bachelor's Degree in Commerce from Carleton University. He is married to Lise Beaulne Nasim; they have two children, Nico and Olivia.

Brett Hillock was appointed Chief Operating Officer for NextStar Energy in October 2025. He is responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations, executing company strategy, and industrialization. With an extensive background in global manufacturing and quality control, he specializes in strengthening cross-functional teams to achieve proven quality and performance.

Prior to this role, Hillock served as Director of Quality for NextStar Energy, and held several positions at Stellantis over 25 years, including Vice President of Manufacturing Quality. Hillock holds an MBA graduate degree from Michigan State University and a bachelor's degree from Thompson Rivers University. He resides in Essex, Ontario with his family and volunteers as a youth hockey coach.

12:00 PM – 1:30 PM – Lunch and Networking

1:30 PM – 2:00 PM – Travel time to Tour Location

2:00 PM – Tour 2: Heritage & Innovation – A Guided Experience at Hiram Walker

Step into the legacy of Canadian whisky at Hiram Walker & Sons, one of North America's oldest and largest distilleries. This guided tour will showcase the rich history of spirits production in Windsor, the economic impact of the beverage industry, and the role of heritage assets in tourism and placemaking. Attendees will gain insights into how Hiram Walker continues to innovate while preserving its storied past, making it a cornerstone of Essex County's cultural and economic identity.

Location: Hiram Walker & Sons Distillery, Windsor, ON

Venue:

Caesars Windsor

377 Riverside Drive East

Windsor, ON, CA N9A 7H7

Phone: 800-991-7777

Accommodations:

Caesars Windsor – Hotel Room Block

377 Riverside Drive East

Windsor, ON, CA N9A 7H7

Booking: Call the dedicated reservation line at 1-800-991-8888, booking code CCI0609

Rate: $159.00 / night

Room block ends May 17th!

*Big City Event Registrations are non-refundable after May 27th, 2026. Before this date, registrations are refundable less a $50.00 +HST administration fee*

*Event registrations are transferrable until June 3rd, 2026.*