The Union of B.C. Municipalities congratulates premier-designate Lorne Doerkson and the Conservative Party of British Columbia on their election victory.
“As local governments begin a new term of office, we are ready to work with B.C.’s new government,” said Mayor Sarrah Storey, UBCM’s president. “Throughout the campaign Mr. Doerkson said his government will renew the relationship with local governments. That’s welcome news as we face complex issues like housing affordability, street disorder and emergency preparedness. B.C.’s communities are stronger when we work together.”
Doerkson has described the provincial relationship with local governments as ‘strained’ and highlighted the need for the Province to work collaboratively with local governments. The Conservative Party made several commitments that relate directly to local governments, including an infrastructure plan that supports population growth, a wildfire action plan, investment in services to reduce street disorder and repealing Bill 44. The Conservatives have also committed to introducing legislation to ensure that local and provincial elections will never overlap again.
“Priorities in the Conservative Party platform speak to long standing local government concerns,” said Storey. “Local governments are looking for meaningful consultation with the Province focused on achieving practical, effective solutions. There is much that needs to be done, and we look forward to engaging with the Province once the transition is complete.”
Mayor Storey acknowledges Mr. David Eby’s many years of public service and wishes him the best as he leaves the offices of Premier and Leader of the NDP.
Sarrah Storey is the mayor of Fraser Lake. Storey, previously UBCM’s 1st VP, was appointed president following the local government general election. Sarrah was first elected to UBCM’s board 2020.
Media Contact
Paul Taylor, Director of Communications
ptaylor@ubcm.ca (604) 2770-8226, ext. 205