Putting Rural Communities First: A Case for FCM Withdrawal
To: Member Municipalities of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities
From: Margaret Hope Braun, Founder of KICLEI Canada
Subject: Recommendation for Withdrawal from the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM)
Purpose
This report presents the case for rural municipalities to reconsider their membership in the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM), using the County of Wheatland and the County of Stettler No. 6 as guiding examples. Both counties have formally withdrawn and will not renew their membership for 2025, citing a lack of representation for rural interests.
Key Concerns with FCM Membership for Rural Municipalities
1. Lack of Representation for Rural Municipalities
The FCM has increasingly prioritized urban-focused policies, leaving rural municipalities with minimal support.
Both the County of Wheatland and the County of Stettler No. 6 have withdrawn from the FCM, citing the FCM’s disconnect from rural issues.
2. Shift in FCM’s Mandate
Originally established to represent all municipalities, the FCM now heavily promotes the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).
These policies emphasize urban densification and centralized land use, often at the expense of rural communities.
3. Impact on Rural and Urban Communities
FCM-endorsed programs shift growth and funding toward urban centers, undermining rural development, property rights, and economic sustainability.
These policies also strain urban infrastructure, increasing housing demand, congestion, and service burdens.
4. Limited Tangible Benefits
Rural municipalities receive minimal direct support from FCM initiatives.
Despite paying membership fees, they are pressured to implement policies that do not align with their local priorities.
5. Lack of Alternatives for Collaboration
Many municipalities remain in the FCM due to a lack of alternative advocacy platforms.
KICLEI Canada is actively working to bring together rural municipalities to develop effective, community-driven advocacy efforts.
📧 If your municipality is considering withdrawal, please notify us at info@kiclei.ca so we can coordinate support and next steps.
Recommendation
WHEREAS
The Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) has shifted toward an international, urban-centric agenda that does not adequately represent rural municipalities and places undue strain on urban municipalities;
Rural communities are a vital part of Canada’s economic and social fabric and require policies that prioritize their unique needs;
BE IT RESOLVED
That [Insert Municipality Name] formally withdraw from the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, effective [Insert Date].
That the attached letter of non-renewal be sent to the FCM and distributed to rural municipal associations in all provinces and the Ministry of Municipal Affairs.
That funds previously allocated to FCM membership be redirected to local initiatives that directly benefit the community.
That councils considering withdrawal or seeking alternative collaborations notify KICLEI Canada to explore the formation of a support network for rural advocacy.
Supporting Example
County of Wheatland and County of Stettler No. 6 Withdrawal Letters
Template Withdrawal Letter for Councils
[Municipality Letterhead]
[Date]
Ms. Rebecca Bligh, President
Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM)
24 Clarence Street
Ottawa, ON K1N 5P3
Subject: Non-Renewal of Membership for [Insert Year]
Dear Ms. Bligh,
The [Insert Municipality Name] Council formally notifies the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) of our decision not to renew our membership for the [Insert Year] fiscal year.
This decision reflects our concern that the FCM no longer adequately represents the distinct priorities and challenges of rural municipalities.
Our community values direct, practical solutions that support local economic development, infrastructure, and sustainability. We believe that current FCM programs disproportionately focus on urban issues and international agendas, leaving rural municipalities without meaningful representation.
We encourage the FCM to reconsider how it serves rural communities. While we are withdrawing, we remain open to future engagement should the FCM return to advocating effectively for all Canadian municipalities.
Sincerely,
[Name]
[Title]
[Municipality Name]
[Contact Information]
CC:
Rural Municipalities of Alberta (RMA)
Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities (SARM)
Association of Manitoba Municipalities (AMM)
Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA)
Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM)
Fédération Québécoise des Municipalités (FQM)
Nova Scotia Federation of Municipalities (NSFM)
Union of the Municipalities of New Brunswick (UMNB)
Federation of PEI Municipalities (FPEIM)
Municipalities Newfoundland and Labrador (MNL)
Conclusion
Rural municipalities play a vital role in Canada’s prosperity. By following the example of the County of Wheatland and the County of Stettler No. 6, councils can prioritize local development and ensure their resources are invested in community-driven initiatives.
We invite councils exploring alternatives to connect with us through our contact form or via info@kiclei.ca to collaborate on solutions that better serve rural communities.
Respectfully submitted,
Margaret Hope Braun
Founder, KICLEI Canada Initiative
📧 info@kiclei.ca
Learn How You Can Support This Effort:
We’ve created a comprehensive Advocacy Package with all the resources you need to support your local council in reconsidering FCM membership. This package includes:
The full withdrawal report
A customizable council withdrawal letter
A deputation script
A community petition template
Guidance for meeting with your councillors
Access the Advocacy Package here: Advocacy Package
Together, we can empower municipalities to make informed decisions that prioritize local needs.
