The future of cross-boarder partnership in Great Lakes and St. Lawrence cities
| | | | | | Strengthening Regional Partnerships: Economic Resilience in the Great Lakes–St. Lawrence Region Thursday, July 17 | 1:00 p.m. ET | Live Zoom Webinar Note: Next week's CityTalk is starting one hour later than usual. | | | | | | Regional economic partnerships between the United States and Canada have long been a cornerstone of North American prosperity. The Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River Region alone accounts for over half of U.S.-Canada bilateral trade and ranks as the third-largest economy in the world.
Built on shared industries, integrated supply chains, and strong municipal and community ties, these relationships continue to drive innovation, job creation, and community well-being on both sides of the border. As trade dynamics evolve and political landscapes shift, the importance of sustaining these cross-border alliances is more evident than ever. In response to today’s emerging challenges, members of the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative are coming together to promote regional economic prosperity for current and future generations in one of the world’s most dynamic and integrated regional economies. In this CityTalk, panellists will explore how communities can adapt to a changing trade environment, reinforce binational cooperation, and promote long-term regional resilience. | | |
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| | Mayor | City of of Rochester Malik Evans is the 71st Mayor of Rochester, NY, and a champion for safe, equitable, and opportunity-rich communities. Born and raised in Rochester, he brings deep local understanding and a collaborative spirit. Since taking office in 2022, he has prioritized transparency and collective action, guided by the belief that “It’s we, not me.” His administration launched the Office of Financial Empowerment and the Office of Violence Prevention, while advancing major projects like ROC the Riverway and Inner Loop North Transformation. He’s also invested in mental health, environmental justice, job creation, and affordable housing in underserved neighborhoods. Previously, Evans served on City Council and led the Rochester Board of Education, alongside two decades in banking. He holds degrees from the University of Rochester and Nazareth College and serves on the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative, advocating for equitable infrastructure and regional collaboration. |
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| | Mayor | City of St. Catharines Mat Siscoe has served as Mayor of St. Catharines, ON since November 2022, after 12 years on Council for St. Patrick’s Ward and a term on Regional Council. With 15 years as a high school physics teacher, he brings a strong commitment to community and youth. Active as a coach and volunteer with Out of the Cold, one of his key achievements as Mayor is launching the St. Catharines OutReach and Engagement Fund (SCORE) to support local non-profits. Inspired by his family and students, Mayor Siscoe works to build a vibrant, inclusive community for future generations. He and his wife Chrissy have four children—Xavier, Canaan, Darius, and Sophia—plus two dogs and four cats. He serves as Co-Chair of the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative, is on the Municipal Finance Sub-Committee for Ontario Big City Mayors, and chairs both the Niagara Transit Commission and Niagara Regional Housing Board. Mayor Siscoe is dedicated to collaboration and fostering a thriving city. |
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| | Mayor | City of Sault Ste. Marie Matthew Shoemaker, born and raised in Sault Ste. Marie, ON, brings a deep personal connection and strong commitment to public service. The son of hardworking parents, his story mirrors that of many Saultites—rooted in resilience and community. First elected to City Council in 2014 at age 26, he served two terms before being elected Mayor in 2022. Known for championing bold ideas and practical solutions, he focuses on strengthening communities across the region. Mayor Shoemaker is an active member of the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative, advocating for water access, environmental sustainability, and regional collaboration. He holds a law degree from the University of Ottawa and a Master of Laws from Osgoode Hall Law School and is a partner at Wishart Law Firm. Recognized with several academic and community leadership awards, he lives in Sault Ste. Marie with his wife, their two sons, and their dog, Maple. |
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| Can't make it? Watch the recording! | | For anyone unable to attend live, be sure to watch the recording on our CityTalk website! Recordings are posted within a week of the event. | | | |
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