Latest News

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On February 3-4, 2021 the Contract Management Committee (CMC), which includes representatives from provinces, territories and local governments, met with federal and RCMP representatives to discuss matters related to the RCMP Police Services Agreements. Issues relevant to local…
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In support of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) invitation for board nominations, UBCM would like to remind local governments of UBCM-FCM Small Communities Travel Fund. This fund provides financial support to local government elected officials from BC attending FCM…
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UBCM President Brian Frenkel and members of the Executive have been meeting with Cabinet ministers to discuss a range of local government priorities as well as minister mandate letters.  UBCM recently met with the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, Sheila Malcolmson;…
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The Local Government Development Approvals program is now receiving applications. This program supports the implementation of established best practices and the testing of innovative approaches to development approvals processes. Eligible applicants can now submit applications…
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The Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations is contemplating amendments to the Wildlife Act Designation and Exemption Regulation to improve the management of non-native, invasive rabbit populations (Eastern cottontail and European rabbit). The proposed…
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Health Canada is currently developing a guidance document to address the misuse of the Access to Cannabis for Medical Purposes Program, while also maintaining access for eligible individuals. Interested stakeholders, including local governments, are invited to provide feedback…
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The Special Committee on Reforming the Police Act is now accepting written, audio and video submissions regarding policing and public safety. Interested parties have until April 30, 2021 to submit feedback via the Special Committee’s consultation portal. The Special Committee,…
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On March 3, Municipal Affairs Minister Josie Osborne introduced Bill 9 to address campaign finance issues identified during the 2018 local elections. UBCM President Brian Frenkel expressed support for the Bill noting the proposed amendments directly respond to concerns raised by…
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The Province of British Columbia has adopted the federal Grade Crossings Regulation and Grade Crossings Standards, which came into effect in 2014. In light of impacts from COVID-19, the Province has extended the timeline for municipalities and provincial railways to bring their…
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The Ministry of Environment will host a webinar on March 25th on the development of a draft regulation that will detail how municipalities may prohibit and impose requirements on specific single-use plastics. In February 2021, the Province announced the approval of four more…