2022 President’s Report

The past year has certainly been one to "Define the Future" as is the theme of my presidency. I am particularly proud of the accomplishments that have been achieved by our Board of Directors, its various committees and sector groups, as well as the LO staff team. They were able to implement many items, including the following sampling: a virtual 2022 Congress show and conference and all that entailed; the Truth and Reconciliation statement developed by the Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Committee; the expanding membership department that is working with chapters and the Membership Committee to meet their respective needs while encouraging growth; the Snow and Ice Committee and their passion to tackle industry norms head-on; the Peer-to-Peer Network transitioning from zoom meetings to in-person sessions and the programs evolution to meet the needs of the membership; continuing discussions and collaboration with the Ontario Association of Landscape Architects (OALA) to make both of our associations (and thereby membership) stronger; and our representation on the CNLA board to bring forth our unique Ontario perspective to the national board and its committees.

Landscape Ontario members were able to move out of the worst of the COVID pandemic. Many member companies had an exceptionally productive and profitable year despite labour shortage concerns. Our employees were able to pick and choose where they wanted to work and to receive a good working wage. They brought to the profession, a need to recognize the need for “a living wage” so that companies pay accordingly and that the landscaping profession becomes a viable career choice.

Landscape Ontario chapters and sector groups were able to get back to in-person meetings and events. Golf tournaments were the norm for the summer of 2022. It was great to get back on the course with friends, colleagues and associates. Chicken roasts and chapter meetings had record attendance. People were glad to shake hands and network in person. We are all excited to walk the 2023 Congress trade show floor and chat with our suppliers and personally listen to our conference presenters.

The growth of Landscape Ontario continues with the strength of the workplace development programs like GROW, Employers of Choice, and the Apprenticeship program. LO will continue to encourage member companies to hire GROW participants and apprentices. These programs can only make the profession stronger.

Tony DiGiovanni’s retirement. Wow! What a special event. The people that came out to recognize Tony’s contribution to Landscape Ontario was outstanding. The landscaping community’s love really came through for him. His transition to Joe Salemi as the incoming Executive Director has been seamless. Joe is now leaving his mark on the profession as he leads Landscape Ontario into the future.

I look forward to being your President for the next year!