The following quotations have been extracted from various newspaper clippings, evaluation surveys and letters in relation to the consulting or seminar work of George B. Cuff & Associates Ltd.

2024

I read your report for Red Deer County. Just wanted to let you know that I thought it was well done. I appreciated the work that was done and always learn something from them. (Municipal Manager, Alberta Observer)
Let me start again by thanking you for coming to our wonderful community & sharing your experiences, thoughts, anecdotes and for offering you wisdom to all of the attendees. I eagerly waited for another opportunity to hear you speak since first attending your seminar in 2016 and it did not disappoint. I was able to make notes & take various ideas away to improve our council team's ability to govern and also find ways to better myself in my role as Mayor. It was also uplifting to hear your recommendations in some areas and know that we are already implementing them! (Attendee, Orientation Seminar, Saskatchewan)
I just want to say again how much I am enjoying and how crucial these workshops are not only for new council (and staff) but returning ones as well. Thank you for making a difference in our communities through your seminars. (Attendee, Orientation Seminar, Saskatchewan)
Thank you so much for a wonderful webinar! I also recently purchased a few of your books which I am now very eager to read. (Councillor, Southern Ontario City)
The webinar was fantastic yesterday, I am still receiving wonderful feedback from Admin’s on its content & direction! (Attendee, Orientation Seminar, Saskatchewan)
I have always walked away from our conversations with greater insight than when I walked into it. I can see that you aren’t “done” yet - nor do I believe you should be if you don’t want to be. You have much wisdom and insight to impart on many still… at the pace that you want and how you want to do it. (Consulting Colleague, Edmonton)
Thank you again for helping us out again. The team really enjoyed the session and keep talking about what they learned. They all said they wish it was a full day which is a huge compliment from this group because they absolutely hate all day meetings. (CAO, Alberta)
We very much appreciate your time here, in particular new staff found it very informative. Staff report that “they found the sessions really informative and helpful. Great way to start in a new job getting this refresher. Being new to the local government level, I found it very informative. (Manager, Corporate Services, BC District municipality)
I just wanted to thank you again for your presentation to the Tri-Region managers last week. I have been a long-time fan of your work, and the session certainly did not disappoint. It left me feeling hopeful and reminded me of why I am embarking on this career path, during a busy time when I really needed it! For that I cannot thank you enough. (Manager, Edmonton region)
Thank you for all of your assistance with the College. I understand the Board is operating in a whole new world now. I believe you were a big part of the renewal. The board was very pleased with the workshop from last week and look forward to moving things along. Thanks for all your work on this and your patience with the board. (Current & Former Chair, College Board, Alberta)
I did not get a chance to say thank-you before you left, but wanted to send a quick note to thank you and Holly for making the trip to Red Deer so that you could share your insight with us. The feedback was that your presentation was greatly enjoyed by all. I personally really appreciated your perspective. (Attendee, Lawyers Conference)
Thank you so much for attending at the City with Council, Administration, and the public. We really appreciating you making the time and sharing your very valuable insights and experience with us. (CAO, Southern Alberta)
I appreciate the opportunity to discuss a few of the challenges that I am struggling with. I am continuously look for ways to improve and recognize that I must be contributing to the situation, as we keep running into the same issues. Your guidance is very much appreciated, George. (CAO, Ontario)

2023

Thanks for a very useful session, and for sending this information. I wish all of our Board members had been there. (Participant, Alberta Ag Society)
We appreciated your advice and expertise, George. It was valuable and timely for our group! (Seminar Participant, Manager, City of Lethbridge)
I just wanted to thank you again for your presentation to the Tri-Region managers last week. I have been a long-time fan of your work, and the session certainly did not disappoint. It left me feeling hopeful and reminded me of why I am embarking on this career path, during a busy time when I really needed it! For that I cannot thank you enough. (Seminar Participant, Parkland County)
George Cuffs' unique blend of no-nonsense advice has become sought-after by local governments struggling with governance and leadership issues. "Getting Cuffed" has become synonymous with undergoing a rigorous and ultimately transformative review process. He is known for his ability to cut through the noise and pinpoint the root causes of dysfunction, be it in leadership, strategy, or execution. He has helped over 450 councils and administrative teams realign with their core responsibilities, reminding them of the values and governance practices that should underpin all their efforts. Cuff's perspectives are essential for those dedicated to achieving governance and leadership excellence. I encourage all elected and administrative leaders to listen to this podcast and share it with your colleagues. (Comment on LinkedIn, Former CAO, Okanagan, BC)
Thank you for a very informative day with both Council and senior staff last Friday. It was very clear, and I appreciated how the seminar was focussed on an elevated human relationship between Council and staff. For an entire day’s investment in time, I must say it was probably one of the most valuable returns on investment that I have made in a very long while. I would return to the same show next day and enjoy it all over again. (Senior Manager, Nanaimo)
Members of Abbotsford City Council and senior leadership met with George Cuff in two separate sessions …to better understand what good governance looks like for administration and for Council. George focussed on distinguishing the unique roles of the Mayor, Council, CAO and staff with the aim of building strong aligned leadership focussed on creating a great community to live, work and play. George’s sessions were packed full of insightful observations, anecdotes and wisdom that could only have been acquired over years of experience working with multiple communities as both a member of council and administration. We are already planning our next session with George so that his good governance practices can transcend throughout the rest of our organization. (CAO, Abbotsford)
George Cuff is the dean of Canadian municipal government experts, built on over 40 years of experience as both a politician and an adviser. His advice is credible, challenging, and “speaks truth to power” - just what elected officials need. If you want to lead successfully, need sage assistance, and courageous direction; I highly recommend working with Mr. Cuff. (Mayor, Strathcona County)
I just wanted to thank you again for presenting to our team yesterday - I have been very fortunate to have had the opportunity to learn from you over the years and I really wanted to give our staff the same opportunity. After the session I received a lot of feedback on how they appreciated the valuable insights you provided and how this is something that we needed to do as a team. (Former Deputy City Manager, Edmonton)
A quick note to say a most sincere thank you!! Your presentation was exactly what I had hoped it would be. In my three years with the Board I know they have had nothing like it. It has me thinking about how we continue down the road of board education. I know that continuing these conversations would be invaluable to the Board, and I can also tell from the session today that it would be of interest to them. (CEO, Edmonton Metro Region Board)
I am new to this role of Clerk-Treasurer and I remarked to the mayor after the session that I felt like I learned more from you in two hours than I have in the 9 months I’ve been in this role. (Clerk-Treasurer, Ontario)
City of Fort Saskatchewan Managers and Supervisors were fortunate participants in George Cuff’s “Management Briefing Workshop”…The session was applicable for leaders across the organization and blended content on municipal government and organizational effectiveness. Workshop topics included role clarity for city administration, expectations of councils, manager skill sets, relationship building, organizational health, and values/ethical standards. The content is practical and delivered in straightforward manner with many teachable moments. Mr. Cuff’s experience in governance and organizations is far reaching and the entire presentation was punctuated with great stories to further emphasize learning. Department Head, Fort Saskatchewan, AB

2022 and Prior References

I’m not sure what a group of CAOs is called… a gaggle… a murder… But when I see a bunch of them furiously talking notes I know the session is a hit. Thank you again George. It’s been a pleasure. (OMAA)
…So thank you so very much for your words and your guidance that have helped me to stand up and move through another day! (Webinar Participant)
A quick note to say a most sincere thank you!! Your presentation was exactly what I had hoped it would be. In my three years with the Board, I know they have had nothing like it. It has me thinking about how we continue down the road of board education. I know that continuing these conversations would be invaluable to the Board, and I can also tell from the session today that it would be of interest to them. (CEO, Regional Board)
Thanks so much George, the presentation was fantastic, I suspect people learned a lot, I know I did. (Association of Yukon Communities)
I find the information and insights you provide at your seminars are invaluable to new and long-time officials, and I enjoy your candid approach. (Association of Yukon Communities)
Thank you for attending the Town of Gillam Council Meeting. Mayor, Council, and Administration found your presentation on good governance and leadership to be very informative and gained useful tools to move forward. Your emphasis on the distinct roles of Mayor, Council, and Administration was timely, and practical advice we can implement immediately. (Town of Gillam CAO)
We have been fortunate to work with George during the past years on a variety of governance-related matters. His experience and insight have assisted our City to improve its governance practices. We are looking forward to continue working with George in the months and years ahead. (City of Moncton CAO)
George, this is a quick note to thank you and acknowledge the assistance you provided to me as I dealt with the breach of Council Code of Ethics issue we were facing. Thank you for the sage advice and direction. (I am aware that you also had occasion to speak to one of the Councillors directly as he was disbelieving of the situation he was in.) Thanks for that as well. (Saskatchewan Municipality) (Mayor):
Thank you again so much for the orientation session delivered on Tuesday. I’ve heard great feedback from Senior Leadership (who listened for the morning) as well as the newly elected Council. (RMWB, Chief Legislative Officer)
Wrapped up a fantastic day of Council Governance Training with the governance guru himself - George Cuff ; Thank you for a great day of learning George! Any colleagues out there looking for some training or simply a refresher, George is your guy! (Town of Lunenburg, CAO)
I believe you have answered all of the questions that our participants had. It was such an informative and encouraging experience and I know our participants, including myself, learned many applicable things from your sessions. (Community Futures Meridien Region, Sask)
Thank you Mr Cuff for these valuable templates. I look forward to getting a copy of ‘The Mayor’ and also “Tucker Goes to City Hall” As a retired educator of primary children I am looking forward to reading this book. (Tudor and Cashel Township, Eastern Ontario)
Last night’s presentation was by far the best information I have ever received as mayor from anyone. (Manitoulin Island, Ontario, Mayor)
Thank you very much for the terrific presentation. You delivered it in an understandable manner, concise but effective, and brief but informative. (Southwest Middlesex, Mayor)
There were a few comments, all positive, including one from a mayor that said, “This is amazing stuff; I'm both inspired and frustrated!!” Your candid advice is sincerely appreciated! (Federation of PEI Municipalities)
I want to repeat that your advice for elected officials gave me support and municipal understanding which I desperately needed over the years. It seemed that the longer I served as Reeve, the more information I needed! (Camrose County, Reeve)

Results Driven Agriculture Research (RDAR) is a new organization… An Interim Board was assigned to lay the foundations for this start up. From the Board’s first meeting, excellence in governance was, and remains, part or our foundation. George was instrumental in guiding our Board and staff throughout our start-up year. George, your expert advice and genuine interest in our success was evident through your highly personalized and thoughtful contributions. Thank you, George, for helping to establish RDAR as a vibrant, and well-governed organization. (Dr. David Chalack, Chair, RDAR Board of Directors, 2020-2025)
I am writing to say "thanks" for all the advice and information you have given me while I was an elected Councillor…from 2004- 2020. Over the years, I purchased a number of your books and faithfully read your column in Municipal World. In 2007, our CAO had you come to make a presentation to a number of elected officials from towns, villages and Counties…I had just been elected Reeve and really appreciated your message that day. (Councillor, Central Alberta)

Firstly, I wanted to tell you I thoroughly enjoyed your presentation on October 23^rd. I am new to this role of Clerk-Treasurer and I remarked to the mayor after the session that I felt like I learned more from you in two hours than I have in the 9 months I’ve been in this role. (Participant, Ontario, E4M Seminar)
“I will only consider your workshop a success if …” is what I told you before your visit to … Ex post facto, it was a success and much more. It became apparent up close, you are a very warm, caring person; your Christianity and giving spirit in plain sight. Thank you for your volunteer work, giving is a gift to ourselves. (Participant, Seminar, Vancouver Island, BC)

City of Fort Saskatchewan Managers and Supervisors were fortunate participants in George Cuff’s “Management Briefing Workshop” on the afternoon of December 12, 2019. The session was applicable for leaders across the organization and blended content on municipal government and organizational effectiveness. The content is practical and delivered in straightforward manner with many teachable moments. Mr. Cuff’s experience in governance and organizations is far reaching and the entire presentation was punctuated with great stories to further emphasize learning. (General Manager, City of Fort Saskatchewan)
George, you held a session last year related to the Council- Administration relationship, workload, translating political direction into operational reality, etc. Our management team LOVED it and so we’ve been very pleased to schedule something similar for this trip. (SAO, City of Yellowknife)

Please accept my sincere thanks for your involvement in the Northwest Territories Association of Communities (NWTAC) Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Hay River. We have received very positive feedback about the good governance session and the value for participants. Your information, ideas and concepts presented to the group as well as your openness to questions and comments were a key factor in this success. (President NWT Association of Communities)

Thanks again for today. Perfect as always. (CAO - Beaver County)
Thank you so much for taking the time to speak to Council and Administration yesterday. The information you provided the group was very insightful and thought provoking. We will absolutely put what we learned yesterday to good use! (City of Chestermere)
Thank you again for coming and imparting your wisdom and experience. (Cote Ste. Luc, Montreal)
Thank you so much for your instruction, expertise and your time. (Westwind School Board)
Thank you for being our Advisor on today’s Elected Officials Orientation. It was a pleasure to once again hear your stories of the past and of what unfortunately is still happening in Councils today. (Participant, Taber Regional Seminar)
It was such a pleasure to meet you last week…You gave such an awesome presentation that got lots of us thinking. For that I say thank you. I also admire how you integrated your faith into the presentation. (Participant, Strathcona Regional Seminar)
We further debriefed on yesterday’s presentation and feedback is that it was very worthwhile. Thanks again for your work. (Management, Elk Island Public School Board)
George B. Cuff and Associates were invaluable in assisting our Council by completing a Governance Audit of the City of Lloydminster after our Council was elected. Mr. Cuff and associates provided candid, clear communication with Council through the entire audit process. The final report provided numerous practical, clear recommendations to advance this Council’s work in building a stronger, more sustainable community for current and future residents. Mr. Cuff has followed up numerous times to check on our progress and provide additional insight to the activities. His level of commitment and support to better governance for our city was second to none. Cuff & Associates are my first recommendation to help your municipality move forward with better governance. (Mayor, City of Lloydminster)

My feeling is that AMVIC and all others who spent time with you and your people will benefit greatly over the long run. Government too. Your experience and genuine "force of personality" are hard to deny. (Board Member, AMVIC)
The feedback from the CM’s was very positive. I know at least two that plan to have a council member orientation and wanted the presentation sent to them as soon as possible. CMs said the information was very helpful and a couple of them told me they really appreciated the format as we didn’t have, yet another, retreat with easels full of lists, and brainstorming, and small group discussions, etc, etc. It was nice for them to sit back and listen to meaningful information. I so appreciate your facilitating our retreat! (City Manager, Albany, CA)
I participated a seminar on the Council-Manager relationship led by George. ‎His years of experience as an elected official and management consultant to municipalities shone through as he provided wide-ranging insights into what contributes to effective (and ineffective) relationships. I highly recommend George as a municipal trainer and consultant for his practical approach and depth of knowledge. (City Manager, Kitchener, ON)
Your presentation came at a great time for me personally. I’ve been confronting many of the issues you addressed but hadn’t had much of a chance to step back and reflect on them. Your insights and experiences will be extremely helpful as I continue to move forward in my new role. (Participant, San Leandro, CA)
Thank-you for your time and your thoughtful insights. Our team was thrilled at the outcome of the session. It was the first event with this level of leadership participating within the new department and we couldn't have asked for a better topic and speaker to reinforce the messages we have been communicating around improving our relationships with Council and citizens. (Coordinator, Integrated Infrastructure Services, City of Edmonton)

I reviewed the report and just wanted to say that I thought that it was excellent – well-written and well-researched. I’m pleased as well as impressed that you and your colleagues managed to get a good understanding of the complex issues surrounding this particular case. Your assessment of our current administration was very fair. I support your recommendations. (General Manager and Chief Administrative Officer, Local Government Leadership Academy)
We here at Northern Rockies Regional Municipality truly enjoyed your presentations in Dawson Creek last week. Both workshops were very informative, and our Council was very impressed with your information. Once again, we commend you on your work and look forward to seeing you in the future.
Municipality of Sioux Lookout had purchased the videos and found them extremely helpful in our Council orientation. The amount of paper that new Council members receives is daunting and the videos were an excellent way for them to view at their own pace. George manages to keep the audience informed and entertained so they don’t lose interest. (CAO, The Corporation of the Municipality of Sioux Lookout)
The Governance Audit report does an excellent job in reviewing Kenora’s current governance structure, identifying issues, and offering solid recommendations for moving Kenora forward, including templates and examples. The process included a direct, knowledgeable, and yet entertaining orientation session for Council on governance, which was well received by Council and staff and should be considered a critical component of any new Council orientation program. George, it was my pleasure to have had this opportunity to work with you and I would like to personally thank you for your invaluable insight, support and advice throughout this process, and beyond. (CAO, City of Kenora)
I thought I would share with you what the plan is regarding your time here. We have created the attached “Cuff Plan” (for lack of a better term) which outlines all of the recommendations you put forward, as well as a list of what we call “informal recommendations” as suggestions you put throughout the text of the report. Each item has been prioritized and a ballpark date set for accomplishment. It is still a work in progress but is coming along nicely. We have adopted your report in principle, and the “Cuff Plan” is being integrated into the Council strategic plan. (CAO, Town of Cardston)
Your lecture in Kimberley was excellent. Inspiring way to start the conference. I really liked your no-nonsense approach. (Councillor, City of Trail)
I had the pleasure of participating in your ICMA webinar presentation regarding Council orientation last week. Thank you for the insight on how to design an effective Council orientation program. (Village Clerk, Pinehurst, NC)
Thank you so much for sharing with us the benefit of lessons learned and best practices gleamed over the course of your experience in this industry. (Manager, Nogales, AZ)
I attended the OCCMA conference in Bend and enjoyed your spirited presentations. (Administrator, Durham, Oregon)

It was a great privilege so early in my career as a councillor to have the opportunity to attend the boot camp hosted by West St. Paul that featured yourself (Canada’s leading consultant in Municipal Government). The time we spent was value packed with information that will undoubtedly make our council better and more effective. I look forward to reading the referenced material and hope the opportunity arises again in the future to be in your audience. (2^nd term Councillor, City of Selkirk Manitoba)
I wanted to take moment to tell you how much I enjoyed your talk today, you can hire someone to deliver a talk. What you can't do is hire someone to be passionate. Your voice will be ringing in my ears for years to come. I look forward to the next time our paths cross. (White Rock Council)
It was a treat to hear you speak at our CVRD training a few weeks ago. I have referenced your advice almost daily and I’ve asked our executive assistant to buy the books for our library. I’m brand new to this gig and this scene and your talk and (soon) books will be my floatation devices. (Councillor, Municipality of North Cowichan)
I just wanted to personally thank you for the management session you provided us. It’s always great to have the opportunity to learn! Knowing what information you provide the Board is also beneficial to staff. (Cariboo Regional District)
I have to tell you I very much enjoyed the Bootcamp and feel invigorated going back to my Board with some changes to implement. (West St. Paul, Manitoba)
The best were the stories utilized throughout the two days which make the information and suggestions real. Every session was beneficial for different reasons. George kept our interest throughout the two days; really enjoyed his style and real-life stories and sense of humour. Very easy to listen to; I like the no nonsense approach. (Kindersley, Saskatchewan)
Excellent presentation. Would love to have you do such a presentation geared toward First Nations governance.

This will be very helpful. Your wisdom holds weight for anyone who has been exposed to your writings! (ICMA Conference)
Thanks for once again adding great value to the ICMA University Workshops offered at the 100th Annual conference in Charlotte. As you will see from the comments your presentation really had impact and I so appreciate your willingness to teach as part of ICMA U. (Conference Organizer)
This was one of the best ICMA conferences I attended, and your topic and presentation was spot on with some of the issues my Manager and I are engaging with our Council. ((ICMA Conference)
I have been in the City Manager business for over 30 years and my only regret is that I did not hear your comments much earlier in my career. Your insight would have helped tremendously, and I would not have to have learned so many of the lessons you teach through my own trials and (often painful) errors. (ICMA Conference)

I wanted to take a quick minute to thank you for the orientation day here in Lethbridge. The one day of learning has trumped the preceding months since elected! I appreciate your insight and advice and look forward to implementing. (Councillor, Capital Region Board)

Thank you, George, for your excellent presentation. You really know how to deliver a message; I only wish that all of board members had been there to listen. You really are an expert in your field and you should feel very proud of the work that you do. It is a honour to work with you. (Manager, Metis Settlements of Alberta)

I hope all is well with you and that you continue to share your gift with other elected officials. I can never thank you enough for the support and encouragement you offered me in my time of need. I think of you often and hope all is well with you and your family.
George Cuff was excellent! All councils need to hear him.

Thank you for your very well thought out and comprehensive analysis of our situation (Alberta Energy)
We believe Mr. Cuff has done a good job at identifying the key themes. A number of Mr. Cuff's recommendations have already been addressed in the normal course of Board business. We broadly support his conclusions and recommendations. (Alberta Agriculture, Meat Inspection Branch)
I really enjoy George; he is the master of making individuals reflect and challenging them to make improvements and betterments.
I really enjoy George; he is the master of making individuals reflect and challenging them to make improvements and betterments.

I attended your governance meeting in Calgary a couple weeks ago that you did for Canada Beef. I have to admit when I saw the topic on the agenda for Tuesday, I sighed at the thought of sitting through an entire day on the topic of governance. However, I wanted to say thanks for making the topic very interesting and informative. I did learn some stuff that I did not know before the meeting. (Canada Beef)
Thank you so much for your report and presentation to Council. There was good discussion at Council both at the end of the morning and the end of the day...Again - thanks for your work, George. It was well received by Council. Always a pleasure to work with you! (College and Association of Registered Nurses of Alberta)

Testimonials