UBCM has provided a submission to the Commission of Inquiry into Community Events Safety in B.C. The submission outlines several issues for the Commission’s consideration as it examines measures respecting public security and safety at community events. The Commission was established on May 7, 2025, following the tragic events that took place during the April 26th Lapu-Lapu Day Festival in Vancouver.
Prior to submitting feedback, UBCM President Trish Mandewo met with Commissioner Christopher E. Hinkson to convey local government concerns and perspectives, including the need for the Province to:
- Take a balanced approach that ensures local governments have the financial flexibility to host events that meet local needs.
- Avoid a one-size-fits-all framework, and consider the resource and capacity levels of local governments, notably small communities.
- Allow for local events to reflect local needs, as local governments best understand local conditions and community needs.
- Develop guidance and best practices, as opposed to onerous regulations and strict requirements.
- Prioritize provincial mental health supports as part of B.C.’s community events safety framework.
Consistent with UBCM’s preference for guidance materials and risk management tools to support local governments, the Municipal Insurance Association of B.C. (MIABC) has developed a Risk Management Guide for Local Government Community Events.
The independent Commission of Inquiry into Community Events Safety in B.C. was established by the Province on May 7, 2025, and directed to submit a final report to the Attorney General of B.C. by June 30, 2025. The Commission was instructed to examine policies, procedures, and best practices to improve public security and safety at community events. Part of this work has included creating a stakeholder survey, which was emailed to local governments on May 20th. The Commission was also mandated to consult with various stakeholders, including UBCM, MIABC and the Local Government Management Association of B.C.