Administration program

Learn more about the Commission's 2006 Projects (PDF, 667k)

Our goal
To enhance the Commission’s leadership role in regional coordination, policy development and advocacy through efficient, cost-effective and responsive service to its members and the larger Great Lakes-St. Lawrence community.

What we do
The Administration Program provides an environment in which Commission members, Observers, partners and staff work collegially to address the goals of the organization under the terms of the Great Lakes Basin Compact. Program efforts ensure that the organization is well-funded, efficiently managed, professionally staffed, and fully responsive to member priorities through vibrant research, policy development, communications and advocacy initiatives. Specific responsibilities include coordinating all aspects of revenue generation, financial management, program development, meeting planning and conduct, organizational publicity, and member/constituent support services.

• Managed the largest budget in the Commission’s 48-year history
• Provided a positive “return on investment,” with 45 percent of total Commission budget returned to member jurisdictions
• Broadened funding base through creative partnerships with federal agencies and other organizations
• Processed more than 100 grants and contracts, both incoming and outgoing
• Initiated Strategic Plan update to prepare for future challenges and opportunities
• Laid groundwork for 50th anniversary celebration in 2005
• Supported Commission and Board of Directors priorities
underleadership of Chair Sam Speck and Vice Chair Tom Huntley

• Complete strategic plan and associated work plan to showcase and coordinate initiatives
• Enhance Ontario and Québec roles and membership status
• Secure multiple large-scale, multiyear funding commitments for member priorities
• Raise the profile and impact of the Commission among regional leadership, elected officials and broader constituency
• Direct additional resources and priority focus to sustainability initiatives and associated environment/economy linkages
• Finalize plans and strategy for a co-location facility to house the Commission and other Great Lakes agencies