Become a Member
The Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative is an international coalition of mayors and local government leaders working collaboratively to solve the most pressing and unique issues impacting freshwater cities in our region today.
Founded in 2003 by Mayor Richard M. Daley of Chicago and Mayor David Miller of Toronto, the Cities Initiative presents a vision of municipalities working beyond their borders, thinking regionally, and taking leadership in protecting the collective interests of our region.
Our members are centered around the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River Basin – a region that represents:
- The world’s largest watershed, which holds 80% of North America’s fresh water
- A source of drinking water for more than 40 million Americans and Canadians
- An integrated economy representing more than $8 trillion in output – the third-largest economic region in the world
- North America’s economic engine supporting over 50 million jobs
- A strategic maritime corridor that connects the Atlantic Ocean to the heart of our continent
Today, the Cities Initiative has grown to more than 260 members, representing over 20 million residents across the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River region.
Every day, the Cities Initiative and its members work to promote economic prosperity in our communities and protect the lakes and rivers that make this region unique and an attractive place to live, work, invest, and play.
Join us in shaping the future of the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River region and demonstrate your leadership in keeping our basin clean, our communities healthy, and our economy strong.
Incentive Program
The Cities Initiative offers a discount on the first year of a municipality’s membership with our organization:
- If you join between November and April, enjoy 50% off the first year of your membership and a free registration to our Annual Conference
- If you join between May and November, enjoy 75% off the first year of your membership
If you have any questions about membership or to learn more about the Cities Initiative, please contact Phil Murphy-Rhéaume, Chief Development Officer, at phillipe.murphy-rheaume@glslcities.org.
Regular Dues Structure
| Municipal Population | Annual Contribution |
| 0 – 1,000 | $550 |
| 1,000 – 2,500 | $1,100 |
| 2,500 – 5,000 | $1,650 |
| 5,000 – 10,000 | $2,200 |
| 10,000 – 25,000 | $2,750 |
| 25,000 – 50,000 | $3,300 |
| 50,000 – 75,000 | $4,400 |
| 75,000 – 100,000 | $5,500 |
| 100,000 – 250,000 | $7,700 |
| 250,000 – 500,000 | $11,000 |
| 500,000 – 1,000,000 | $16,500 |
| 1,000,000 – 2,000,000 | $22,000 |
| 2,000,000 – 3,000,000 | $27,500 |
**Membership contributions will be paid in the local currency of the municipality that is joining **