Life in municipal work
Amy Tawse
1. What is your role and what does a typical day look like for you?
I’m the Manager of Budgets and Financial Reporting for the Town of Halton Hills. On any given day, I might be working on long-term financial planning, supporting departments with budget questions, reviewing capital forecasts, or translating financial data into something meaningful and understandable. No two days are the same, which is part of what I love about the job. It’s a mix of strategy, problem solving, and collaboration across the organization.
2. How did you find your way into municipal work?
I found my way into municipal work through a combination of interest and opportunity. I started in Public Works administration and was very interested in how the department operated and the impact it had on people in the community. Knowing that the work I do supports essential services and long-term community planning made it an easy career path to commit to.
3. What part of your work has the biggest impact on your community?
Helping ensure the Town’s financial sustainability has the biggest impact. Whether it is preparing budget and financial information, planning for growth, ensuring sufficient budgets for maintaining infrastructure, or understanding the true cost of service delivery, my work helps Council and staff make informed decisions that affect residents today and well into the future.
4. What is one moment, project, or accomplishment you’re proud of?
I’m especially proud of projects that bring together multiple departments to solve complex problems, whether that is improving long-term financial planning, strengthening asset management practices, or supporting strategic initiatives. Seeing different pieces come together into a clear, actionable plan is incredibly rewarding.
5. What’s something people might be surprised to learn about your job?
Municipal finance is much more than spreadsheets and numbers. A big part of my role is storytelling, connecting financial information to services, priorities, and outcomes in a way that makes sense to both staff and the community.
6. What do you enjoy most about serving your municipality?
I really enjoy working with people across the organization. Everyone brings a different perspective, and it is exciting to collaborate on solutions that help the Town run better. There is also a strong sense of purpose in knowing the work directly contributes to the community where people live, work, and play.
7. What are you looking forward to in the year ahead?
I’m looking forward to continuing to strengthen our financial planning tools and processes, supporting strategic initiatives, and tackling new challenges that come with growth and change. Municipal work is always evolving, which keeps things interesting.
8. Anything else you’d like people to know about your role, your team, or your municipality?
Halton Hills is a small town in the GTA with a unique set of challenges. Our team is passionate, collaborative, and committed to doing things thoughtfully and responsibly. I’m proud to be part of an organization that values good planning, strong financial stewardship, and community-focused decision making.




