Whereas Ontario Municipalities are committed to recognizing that our growth and strength depend on the safety and essential role our homes, buildings, and infrastructure play, both in everyday life and when disasters strike; and

Whereas our confidence in the structural integrity of these buildings that make up our communities are achieved through the devotion of vigilant guardians—building officials, fire prevention officials, architects, engineers, builders, tradespeople, design professionals, and others in the construction industry—who work year-round to ensure the safe construction of buildings; and

Whereas modern building codes include safeguards to protect the public from hazards such as hurricanes, snowstorms, tornadoes, wildland fires, floods, earthquakes; and

Whereas Building Safety Month, a campaign supported by the Ontario Large Municipalities Chief Building Officials (OLMCBO) and the Ontario Building Officials Association (OBOA), is intended to remind the public about the critical role of our communities’ largely unknown protectors of public safety—our local code officials—who assure us of safe, sustainable, and affordable buildings that are essential to our prosperity; and

Whereas 2026 celebrates 70 years of the Ontario Building Officials Association (OBOA). This year, we recognize the 70th year of the OBOA during Building Safety Month in May; and

Whereas since its founding in 1956, OBOA has strengthened public safety by supporting building officials through professional education, technical training, and ongoing certification. The Association promotes consistent enforcement of building regulations, advocates for strong and effective legislation, and creates opportunities for knowledge-sharing among municipal professionals. Through this work, OBOA helps ensure that buildings throughout Ontario meet the standards that keep people safe; and 

Whereas behind every safe building is a dedicated professional ensuring codes are met and standards are upheld. This month shines a light on the critical, yet often unseen, work of building officials who safeguard our communities every day. From decks to basement renovations, permits matter; even small projects require proper approvals to ensure safety, compliance, and long-term protection for homeowners and occupants. Construction practices are evolving. Building officials continue to adapt through training, innovation, and collaboration, helping municipalities address emerging technologies, sustainability goals, and growing communities; and 

As we observe Building Safety Month this May, we acknowledge the evolution of the Ontario Building Officials Association over the last 70 years and its role in keeping Ontario safe, resilient, and built to last.

Therefore, I, Mayor Lynn Dollin, on behalf of the Town of Innisfil, hereby proclaim May 2026 as Building Safety Month in the Town of Innisfil.