Latest News

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Changes have been made to the Province’s Small and Medium Sized Business Recovery Grant Program in an effort to support more businesses impacted by COVID-19.  Overview of changes: The Program has been extended to August 31, 2021 or until funds are fully expended, whichever comes…
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The Working Group on Responsible Conduct has developed a database of external resources to support local governments. The consultants included provide a range of services that support responsible conduct by elected officials, including conflict management & resolution;…
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UBCM has conveyed concerns to the Province regarding the transfer of RCMP police dispatch costs to South Vancouver Island local governments. In a letter to Minister Mike Farnworth, UBCM raised several key issues, including the absence of consultation and communication with…
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Registration is now open for the inaugural FireSmart BC Symposium: Our Shared Responsibility.  Join in to learn about the future of FireSmart in BC and across the country, hear a live panel share FireSmart community success stories and much more. The virtual symposium is on…
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Local and Indigenous governments, particularly those with rural and remote populations, are invited to participate in a study of broadband Internet speeds experienced in BC. Communities across British Columbia have voiced concerns that federal data on broadband Internet speeds,…
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On March 3, the Province introduced the Firearm Violence Prevention Act (Bill 4), aimed at reducing gun violence. The proposed legislation incorporates recommendations made by the Illegal Firearms Task Force, and largely targets the purchase, transportation and possession of…
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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…