WHEREAS the provincial government has circulated a Provincial Single Business Licence Initiative, with an implementation date of January 2008; AND WHEREAS concerns exist whether the initiative envisions establishing a number or inter-municipal licensing schemes or the development of a single business licence for all trades, professions, business operators, etc.; AND WHEREAS there are many issues that have not been explained, including loss of ability to monitor business operations, potential land use conflicts, revenue losssharing, enforcement matters, etc.: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that municipalities remain in control of business licences within their jurisdictions; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that, should consideration of the Single Business Licence Initiative be continued, representatives of municipalities currently handling business licences be involved in the consultation process.
MINISTRY OF SMALL BUSINESS AND REVENUE We welcome the participation of municipal representatives in developing a single business licence model. In fact, several consultations have already taken place with more planned. Recently the Okanagan-Similkameen has agreed to work with the provincial government on a pilot project. It is important that all levels of government work together to continually address streamlining and simplifying red tape for small businesses. The Ministry of Small Business and Revenue is committed to working in partnership with local governments, the Union of British Columbia Municipalities, the Ministry of Community Services, and the Ministry of Finance to ensure municipal concerns are addressed as we develop the Single Business Licence model. The goal is a Single Business Licence system that streamlines licensing processes and retains municipalities powers to set local standards for businesses operating within their boundaries. Building a Single Business Licence framework will require cooperation and adaptability. It is an exciting opportunity to be creative in how we make it easier for business to operate and grow in British Columbia. The expertise and support of local governments are paramount in ensuring success in meeting this challenge.