Messages from the UBCM President, general advocacy communications, and information about Local Government Week.
Bill aiming to limit local government peer review of developer submissions faces opposition.
More organizations are publicly sharing their concerns about the harms the bill could cause if passed. The bill has passed 2nd reading, and is moving into the committee stage for review.
The Professional Reliance Act bill (M216) threatens to weaken the oversight of new home construction and increase the liability risk of taxpayers
UBCM is sad to note the passing of Keith Thom, councillor and deputy mayor of Peachland.
“Keith was far more than a colleague – he was a dear friend, a steady presence, and a passionate ambassador for our town of Peachland. Over years of service – both on Council and in the community – he touched countless lives through his warmth, his music, his generous spirit, and his dedication,” wrote the mayor and councillors in a statement.
UBCM members overwhelmingly support a pause to legislative development to allow for
face to face consultation.
MLA George Anderson, Parliamentary Secretary for Transit, has brought forward a private member’s bill that would apply a professional reliance model to local approvals. If passed, this legislation would require that, with limited exceptions, local governments accept submissions certified by registered professionals including engineers and architects as meeting permit or bylaw requirements. UBCM was not consulted on this legislation before its introduction and has significant concerns with the proposed approach that would erode local approval authorities.
We are sad to note the passing of Mary Sjostrom, a longstanding local elected official and former UBCM President. Mary was a councillor in Quesnel before becoming the City’s first female mayor. She went on to serve as an Electoral Area Director for the Cariboo Regional District.
Mary served in various positions on the UBCM Executive from 2004 to 2014, including a term as President in the 2012-2013 year.
The provincial government’s consultation period for over 50 proposed changes to the Heritage Conservation Act (HCA) has been extended until November 14. UBCM has developed a process for local government engagement and will contract with Randy Diehl (Diehl Management Services) to support its delivery. The engagement with local governments will include a survey of CAOs, follow up interviews with select staff, and webinars with elected officials to share preliminary findings.
With thanks to all the nominees, UBCM is pleased to present your 2025-2026 Executive team:
UBCM membership adopted the 2025 Annual Report and Financial Reports at the 2025 Convention. Executive Director Gary MacIsaac presented a summary of the past year at UBCM.
Read the Annual Report in full.
UBCM issued a press release this morning calling on the Province to pause progress on changes to the Heritage Conservation Act until meaningful consultation can be conducted with local governments.