Whereas lengthy wait times for archaeological permits from the Provinces Heritage and Conservation Branch are causing significant delays to local government infrastructure and development projects, resulting in budget overruns, missed construction seasons, and lost grant opportunities; And whereas these delays are further compounded by limited access to qualified archaeologists, whose capacity is strained by permitting backlogs and additional reporting or fieldwork requirements imposed late in the process, making it increasingly difficult for local governments to comply in a timely and cost-effective manner: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM urge the Province of British Columbia to reduce wait times for archaeological permits by increasing staff capacity, streamlining review processes, and improving communication within the Heritage and Conservation Branch to applicants; And be it further resolved that the Province work collaboratively with local governments, First Nations governments, and the archaeological sector to mitigate impacts on project timelines and ensure reasonable and coordinated approaches to meeting archaeological requirements.
