As Canada embarks on its largest defence spending increase in decades, the stakes are high for local communities, so the Canadian Federation of Canadian Municipalities has set up a defence task force to support national security.

In this episode of Conversations with Vanguard Defence, Kingston's Conny Glenn, co-chair of the newly launched defence task force, reveals the urgent need for municipalities to take an active role in defence planning. With over 1,100 new military positions expected to impact Kingston, the local infrastructure is under pressure – but the opportunity for collaboration is now.

Conny shares firsthand insights from her daily commute past a bustling military base and discusses the critical relationship between defence investments and community needs. You'll discover how municipalities can better prepare for the influx of military personnel and their families, from housing shortages to infrastructure demands.

We break down the importance of dual-use infrastructure projects, where civilian and military needs intersect, and how these can be funded through innovative approaches that combine various government resources. Conny also highlights the risks of inaction and why timely planning is essential for both the military and local residents to thrive together.

With national security on the line, understanding the local implications of defence spending is more important than ever. This episode is a must-listen for municipal leaders, defense policy enthusiasts, and anyone concerned about the future of their community amid rapid military expansion.

Join us as we explore how Kingston and other municipalities can ensure they are not just stakeholders but active partners in shaping the future of defense in Canada. Perfect for those looking to understand the intersection of defense and community planning, this conversation will leave you informed and inspired to take action.