Latest News

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The dramatic impact climate change is having on BC’s landscapes are being felt intensely in our forests, impacting the ecosystem, biodiversity, forest-reliant economies, and more.   Lead scientist in the Ministry, Colin Mahoney spoke to a crowded room on the research his team is…
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The plenary on the health impacts of wildfire featured Angela Yao, a senior scientist with the BC Centre for Disease Control. She focused on the physical impacts of smoke exposure, primarily respiratory, but focused on what communities can do to minimize exposure. “Smoke is…
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New emergency management act legislation will come to the legislature on October 3, Minister Bowinn Ma confirmed at UBCM Convention. We asked her if local governments can expect a framework to build capacity and fund additional responsibilities under the new Act.…
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Earlier this year, the BC government received a three-year exemption by Health Canada from the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act to decriminalize the possession of certain illegal drugs. While local governments were largely in support of decriminalization as one of the tools…
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The BC government has announced amendments to its decriminalization policy. As of Monday, September 18, the possession of illicit drugs within 15 metres of any play structure in a playground, a spray or wading pool, or a skate park will be prohibited. The Province also advised…
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At the 2023 UBCM Convention, Fire Commissioner Brian Godlonton of the Office of the Fire Commissioner (OFC) will participate in a workshop to provide an update on the Fire Safety Act and its fire-risk reduction initiatives. This workshop is particularly relevant for regional…
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This fall, the Province will introduce new emergency management legislation, which will include new and enhanced responsibilities for local governments. Ahead of introducing the legislation, the Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness (EMCR) has outlined key…
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As part of the 2024 FireSmart Community Funding and Supports program, funding for eligible recipients in higher risk areas of the province will transition to an allocation-based model. All program and application materials will be updated and posted by September 15, 2023. More…
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Asset Management BC’s annual conference, “Collaborating and Converging Toward a Sustainable Future,” November 8-9, 2023, will have a keynote speaker on both days of the conference The first day will feature Isaiah Robinson, a proud member of the Kitasoo Xai’xais Nation, and…
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Each month we provide an update on UBCM funding programs and information on other programs, events, and resources that may be of interest to local governments and First Nations. Local Government Program Services Applications are currently being accepted for the following funding…