The Clarington Board of Trade (CBOT) is preparing for a pivotal moment in its governance as it announces the upcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM), scheduled for April 29, 2026, at the Canadian Tire Motorsport Park Event Centre. This meeting will serve two primary functions: the presentation of the 2025 fiscal year financial statements and the election of new leadership to fill four vacancies on the Board of Directors. As a non-profit organization dedicated to improving trade and commerce within the Municipality of Clarington, these proceedings are essential for maintaining the transparency and strategic growth of the local business community.
The financial report for the year ending December 31, 2025, reveals a complex economic landscape for the organization. The Board reported total revenues of $545,394, a decrease from the $665,993 recorded in 2024. This shift was largely due to the conclusion of a significant physician recruitment contract, which saw revenues in that category drop from $163,191 to just $969 as the program transitioned to a new model. Despite this, membership fees saw a healthy increase to $129,913, and meetings and events revenue rose to $184,993. The organization ended the year with a deficiency of revenues over expenditures totaling $46,277, leaving unrestricted net assets at $563,863.
Parallel to the financial update, the Clarington Board of Trade election will feature a diverse slate of six candidates vying for four available director seats. The candidates include Derek Boucher, a job developer with Durham College; Laura Boyko, an entrepreneur and owner of BeWell Therapy; Jaituni Desai, owner of Taunton Variety & Party Store and founder of Candy Confusion; Chris Kellestine, Associate Vice President at GEMTEC Consulting; Benito Suppa, owner of Durham Escape Rooms ; and Stefanie Wood, Business Services Manager at IBW Surveyors. Each candidate brings a unique blend of expertise in workforce development, healthcare, engineering, and small business operations.
The election represents a significant opportunity for members to influence the future direction of the Board. Candidate Derek Boucher emphasizes his 15 years of experience in employment services and his passion for Clarington’s economic growth. Meanwhile, Laura Boyko highlights her extensive governance experience, having previously chaired the Durham Community Health Centre. Jaituni Desai offers a perspective rooted in small business advocacy and diversity , and Chris Kellestine brings over 35 years of engineering and strategic growth experience to the table.
As the Clarington Board of Trade election approaches, members are encouraged to review the candidate biographies thoroughly. The voting process will allow each business one vote to help select the leaders who will navigate the Board through the 2026 fiscal year. With the relocation of major offices like GEMTEC to Bowmanville and ongoing partnerships with institutions like Durham College, the newly elected directors will play a vital role in fostering a thriving and connected business environment across the municipality.
