UBCM recommends pilot projects to tap expertise of local governments, archaeologists, industry and First Nations
The Union of B.C. Municipalities (UBCM) is calling on the province to test potential amendments to the Heritage Conservation Act through a pilot project initiative before new legislation is introduced. UBCM has written to Ravi Parmar, Minister of Forests, to say that although the Province has taken some steps to address concerns identified by multiple stakeholders last fall, the proposed changes continue to lack sufficient detail and clarity for UBCM to support the introduction of legislation.
“The current Heritage Conservation Act drives up the cost of construction and slows the permitting processes for new homes and industrial development,” said Ramsay. “Changes are needed, but the province is challenged with balancing the interests of homeowners, homebuilders, industry, local governments and First Nations. The only way to do this responsibly is through a pilot process in which concepts, practices and procedures can be tested and improved prior to new legislation being introduced.”
Earlier this month, UBCM provided a preliminary analysis of a technical policy paper made public by the Province in March. UBCM’s analysis acknowledged that the Province had made progress to address some of the concerns identified by local governments last fall, but further analysis was needed.
Further consideration of the technical policy paper has led UBCM to the conclusion that the Province’s updates have not gone far enough. Gaps in the Province’s proposals include:
- a lack of clarity for permitting processes;
- poorly defined roles and responsibilities;
- unrealistic hopes for “Heritage Management Plans”; and
- the chronic lack of archaeological professionals remains unaddressed.
The 30-day feedback period for the technical policy paper continues a pattern the Province has followed with Heritage Conservation Act amendments, wherein complex policy intentions statements are issued with limited periods for response.
UBCM sought an extension to allow for proper consultation on the technical policy paper with its members, but this request was denied. Nonetheless, UBCM has heard enough from its members to know there are critical issues with the approach to legislative change the province is proposing.
The pilot project initiative UBCM is proposing would allow local governments, First Nations, industry, archaeologists and provincial officials to work together to ensure that the legislative changes are workable and balance the goal of reconciliation with the need to support economic growth and the address interests of property owners. Communities of varying sizes would be invited to participate to assess the capacity implications for all parties.
The UBCM president plans to reach out to Minister Parmar and Premier Eby to discuss what may be done to bring groups together to do the critical work needed to create a better Heritage Conservation Act.