2022 Resolutions
Click on the links below for more information on each resolution.
Status
Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership | Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership - Amended & Endorsed by the UBCM Membership
WHEREAS the Tire Stewardship of BC website identifies Regional Transfer Stations in the north as the only location within small rural communities to which used tires can be returned for recycling and Various Regional Districts have notified the public that they will no longer accept used tires for recycling at the Regional Transfer Stations due to space constraints and collection issues; and
WHEREAS the loss of used tire collections sites within rural areas will result in the public discarding used tires on Crown Land along Forest Service Roads and within Gravel Pits; thus, defeating the Provincial Government strategy to place the responsibility for end-of-life product management on the producer and consumers, not the general taxpayer. The Provincial Government will have to cover the costs associated with clean up and disposal of the used tires discarded within crown lands. In addition, the environmental damage brings its own issues and costs:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA and UBCM petition the Province of British Columbia to work with Tire Stewardship of BC to ensure proper collection and disposal of used tires in all British Columbia communities.
Actions
Meeting held December 1, 2022 with NCLGA Executive, Hon. Minister George Heyman, SMA Danielle Monroe, Bob McDonald (ENV-Director), Nat Gosman (EMLI Executive Director), Katherine Muncaster (EMLI – Director), Adrian Hickin (EMLI – Executive Director/Chief Geologist)
During discussion on Resolution L15, the following comments were offered:
• We are currently reviewing the revised Tire Stewardship of BC Plan and there are areas where improvements and enhancements are needed. There are issues around access, proper disposal and collection, particularly in rural communities and we are live to that issue.
• There was a backlog of tires for some time, but that backlog was cleared up in the early summer and tires are now being directed to local retailers which is the predominant means of collection across the province. The timing of the NCLGA’s ask is perfect as the Tire Stewardship program is under review. In addition, we are conducting an accessibility study on the access to EPR services across the province for all programs, with a special focus on rural and remote communities. There are 21 different stewards with 21 different ways of justifying the level of access they provide for the different programs across the province. We do not prescribe one way in particular but the study will help to develop a formula or a set of standards that will show what is needed at a minimum to address specific situations for services, like improper disposal of tires. That work will conclude at end of this fiscal year and next month a decision will be made on the plan and then what accessibility looks like for all EPR programs.
Action Item: Bob McDonald agreed to follow-up with Terry Roberts on the Tire Stewardship of BC review.
Status
Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership | Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership - Amended & Endorsed by the UBCM Membership
WHEREAS the ongoing shortage of labour in Ambulance Services throughout rural BC is prevalent in most communities outside of large urban centres;
AND WHEREAS BC Emergency Health Services (BCEHS) ambulance service is a vital component of life safety and access to healthcare for those who live and work in small rural communities, which are often a significant distance from fully-equipped hospitals:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the North Central Local Government Association and the Union of BC Municipalities lobby the Province of BC to provide funding for increased wages and training opportunities to assist with recruiting and retention of workers in the BCEHS.
Actions
Pending response to letter sent to Minister requesting meeting to discuss resolution.
Status
Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership | Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership - Amended & Endorsed by the UBCM Membership
WHEREAS Section 2 of the Community Charter states that consultation is a key principle defining the local government/provincial government relationship and acknowledges that the residents of BC are benefited when both local and provincial governments work together;
AND WHEREAS Provincial policies such as the Caribou Recovery Program, Old Growth Forest Policy Review and the Province’s decision not to appeal the Supreme Court’s decision in Yahey v. British Columbia impact communities in a variety of ways both directly and indirectly:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the North Central Local Government Association and the Union of BC Municipalities lobby the Province of BC to engage in meaningful consultation with municipalities that will be impacted by Provincial policy.
Actions
Meeting held December 1, 2022 with Hon. Minister Nathan Cullen, Mike Allison (Communications Director), Scott Andrews (Ministerial Advisor), Alanah Connie (Senior Public Affairs Officer), Tara Faganello (Assistant Deputy Minister), Quinn MacTavish (Executive Assistant), Okenge Yuma Morisho (Deputy Minister)
During discussion on Resolution L10, the following comments were offered:
I will be happy to hear what the dialogue comes out of UBCM and NCLGA around this. We had set up a parallel process regarding the MOU with the Wet'suwet'en First Nation, which might be a useful model. We do not have a perfect model, but the community engagement with Wet'suwet'en is improving. The processes evolve over time, and the Supreme Court is clear in telling us what our obligations are. We are working to evolve, to include a better way to communicate out to communities. For First Nations, it helps to have good communication lines to the other regions. A consistent message heard has been that the relationship between First Nations governments and local government needs more work. There is a need and opportunities for strengthening and deepening those dialogues.
Status
Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership | Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership - Amended & Endorsed by the UBCM Membership
WHEREAS BC municipalities wish to make decisions about ‘building back better’ in a smart, sustainable way that creates jobs and achieves net-zero emissions,
AND WHEREAS Geoscience BC generates independent, relevant, public earth science research and data about British Columbia’s minerals, energy and water resources:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA and the UBCM request that the Province of British Columbia work with Geoscience BC and the Government of Canada to continue funding for Geoscience BC to undertake critical earth science research that helps achieve net-zero emission targets, builds partnerships, creates jobs and attracts investment by:
- Investing $5 million annually in Geoscience BC; and
- Assisting Geoscience BC to establish a sustainable long-term funding model.
Actions
Meeting held December 1, 2022 with NCLGA Executive, Hon. Minister George Heyman, SMA Danielle Monroe, Bob McDonald (ENV-Director), Nat Gosman (EMLI Executive Director), Katherine Muncaster (EMLI – Director), Adrian Hickin (EMLI – Executive Director/Chief Geologist), Darius Low, Ministry of Forests
During discussion on Resolution L8, the following comments were offered:
- We are currently evaluating the role of GSBC going forward with more focus on clean energy and environmental geoscience that would support the CleanBC mandate. The majority of provincial funding has focused on mineral exploration. Over recent years we have been doing project-specific funding, including a project on carbon capture and storage in northeastern BC. That project is near completion. We are evaluating what that will look like in the future.
- GSBC is a non-government agency and within the provincial government, geosciences is conducted in different parts of different ministries. On the mineral side, we have the BC Geological Survey which is responsible for mineral geoscience. The oil and gas division has some geoscience groups as does the Ministry of Environment. It is spread around within government. GSBC is like the “icing on the cake” but the foundational work comes from the different government and agencies. As we deliver on our provincial responsibilities, if there are opportunities to use the GSBC model to enhance that, they will be considered. Currently, it is looked at on a project-by-project basis. We are looking at funding and ensuring we can deliver that foundation geoscience work first and then see how it can be enhanced.
Status
Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership
WHEREAS the tabular stumpage rate system that currently applies to community forest agreements provides the means through which community forests innovate, operate in contentious areas, invest in long-term forest stewardship and provide jobs and other benefits to their communities;
AND WHEREAS the ability of community forests to innovate and invest in community priorities including climate change adaptation, wildfire risk reduction, ecosystem restoration, old growth management, recreational infrastructure development, and community economic development relies upon the current stumpage rates;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM petition the Province of British Columbia to maintain the tabular rate structure for community forest agreements.
Actions
*Note: L12, L13, L14 were amalgamated into L7 at NCLGA AGM.
* Not admitted for debate at UBCM Convention
Letter dated November 14, 2022 from Mike Hykaway Assistant Deputy Minister, on behalf of the Honourable Katrine Conroy, Minister of Forests.
Thank you for your letter of October 19, 2022, regarding NCLGA Resolution L7 concerning the stumpage rate structure for Community Forest Agreements. Minister Conroy is unavailable to meet in the near future, and I have been asked to respond on her behalf.
I acknowledge your concerns around how possible changes to the stumpage rate structure could affect communities holding Community Forest Agreements. The ministry will be completing a review of the current stumpage rate structures, consistent with the market pricing system, mindful that smaller tenure ownership is impacted by economies of scale. In the meantime, I encourage agreement holders to continue engaging with regional ministry staff to receive the most current information and updates.
Again, thank you for sharing these concerns on behalf of your members.
Status
Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership | Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership - Amended & Endorsed by the UBCM Membership
WHEREAS there is a critical lack of medical professionals in smaller rural communities for people who require medical care;
AND WHEREAS there is inadequate funding to support small to mid-sized communities to attract medical locums;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM lobby the health authorities and the provincial government to further support and evaluate funding or other assistance for placing medical locums in smaller rural communities.
Actions
Pending response to letter sent to Minister requesting meeting to discuss resolution.
Status
Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership | Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership - Amended & Endorsed by the UBCM Membership
WHEREAS there is a verifiable mental health crisis in our province that is exacerbated by insufficient funding and options for mental health supports in rural communities;
AND WHEREAS this is compounded by the opioid crisis and homelessness;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM lobby the provincial government and health authorities to provide increased support and funding for mental health, including a place to properly discharge patients to access ongoing supports.
Actions
Pending response to letter sent to Minister requesting meeting to discuss resolution.
Status
Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership | Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership - Amended & Endorsed by the UBCM Membership
WHEREAS recent amendments made to the Electoral Boundary Commission Act in 2021 will allow the redrawing of electoral boundaries in British Columbia whereby large geographical areas in the province may be amalgamated due to their lower populations thereby resulting in rural areas being represented by a single Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA); and
AND WHEREAS a lower representation of members in the Legislative Assembly is not in the best interests of rural regions of British Columbia whose remoteness and distinctive character were once carefully enshrined within the Electoral Boundaries legislation which protected 17 rural electoral riding:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the North Central Local Government Association lobby the Electoral Boundary Commission and the Provincial Government to demonstrate equality and fairness by ensuring fair representation of rural and northern communities in the Legislative Assembly where decisions are made that impact all British Columbians, including the rural regions which are resource rich sectors that strengthen the province’s economy for the benefit of all British Columbians.
Actions
Meeting held December 1, 2022 with Hon. Minister Nathan Cullen, Mike Allison (Communications Director), Scott Andrews (Ministerial Advisor), Alanah Connie (Senior Public Affairs Officer), Tara Faganello (Assistant Deputy Minister), Quinn MacTavish (Executive Assistant), Okenge Yuma Morisho (Deputy Minister)
During discussion on Resolutions L1 and L4, the following comments were offered:
I was an advocate for the status quo. There was some concern from the opposition that we had taken away the protection provision. I have a faith in the impossible task of the Commissioners to draw up the map.
Acknowledgement of concern voiced from the public regarding vote dilution and rural BC having net fewer votes. Every vote in rural BC is three times the vote in urban and suburban BC. There are guidelines in the way elections are set up, and every vote should count equally, while recognizing the difficulty in representation.
Status
Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership | Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership - Amended & Endorsed by the UBCM Membership
WHEREAS provisions in the Community Care and Assisted Living Act - Child Care Licensing Regulation state that a licensee must not provide care for more than 13 hours each day to each child;
AND WHEREAS there is a need for extended shift workers to access child care beyond the current 13 hours per day per child;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM lobby the Provincial Government to amend the Child Care Licensing Regulation to accommodate extended hour child care to support shift workers and their families.
Actions
Pending response to letter sent to Minister requesting meeting to discuss resolution.
Status
Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership
WHEREAS libraries in British Columbia are largely financed by local governments, and where provincial library funding has remained stagnant for the past 10 years:
AND WHEREAS public libraries are central to communities, providing equitable access to vital resources, including internet, public computers, digital library tools, and in-person service from expert staff;
AND WHEREAS public libraries provide British Columbians with low-barrier services that support jobseekers and small businesses, increase literacy in communities, advance reconciliation with Indigenous peoples, and promote equity and inclusion;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Prince George Public Library Board urges the Government of British Columbia to increase funding for public libraries from $14 million to $22 million in the BC Provincial Budget for 2022;
AND THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Prince George Public Library Board urges the Government of British Columbia to maintain financial support at a sustainable level in subsequent years following the 2022 Budget.
Actions
Meeting held December 1, 2022 with Hon. Minister Nathan Cullen, Mike Allison (Communications Director), Scott Andrews (Ministerial Advisor), Alanah Connie (Senior Public Affairs Officer), Tara Faganello (Assistant Deputy Minister), Quinn MacTavish (Executive Assistant), Okenge Yuma Morisho (Deputy Minister)
During discussion on Resolutions R9 and L2, the following comments were offered: There was an uplift of $8 million for libraries this year to help digital access and direct funding into communities. The role of libraries have changed significantly; they are one of the only doors open to everybody, all the time, and are an incredible resource with the services, scope, and education they provide. We are looking at the budget for next year.
Status
Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership
WHEREAS the B.C. Electoral Boundaries Commission will be considering population growth, demographics and geography along with size, shape and boundaries of B.C.’s electoral districts and potentially change the size or number of electoral districts;
AND WHEREAS Members of Legislative Assembly are challenged to cover the huge distances in the Peace Region, sometimes in adverse weather conditions, to meet with constituents about issues unique to the Peace including rural and remote health care, restrictions on backcountry snowmobile usage, caribou habitat recovery initiatives, hydro-electric dams, hunting regulations, the impact of old growth forest policies and water licensing:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the North Central Local Government Association and the Union of BC Municipalities lobby the Province of BC not to reduce the number of Members of Legislative Assembly in the NCLGA Boundaries.
Actions
Not admitted for debate at UBCM convention.
Meeting held December 1, 2022 with Hon. Minister Nathan Cullen, Mike Allison (Communications Director), Scott Andrews (Ministerial Advisor), Alanah Connie (Senior Public Affairs Officer), Tara Faganello (Assistant Deputy Minister), Quinn MacTavish (Executive Assistant), Okenge Yuma Morisho (Deputy Minister)
During discussion on Resolutions L1 and L4, the following comments were offered:
I was an advocate for the status quo. There was some concern from the opposition that we had taken away the protection provision. I have a faith in the impossible task of the Commissioners to draw up the map.
Acknowledgement of concern voiced from the public regarding vote dilution and rural BC having net fewer votes. Every vote in rural BC is three times the vote in urban and suburban BC. There are guidelines in the way elections are set up, and every vote should count equally, while recognizing the difficulty in representation.
Status
Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership | Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership - Amended & Endorsed by the UBCM Membership
WHEREAS the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada Calls to Action (No. 57, Professional Development and Training for Public Servants) states: “We call upon federal, provincial, territorial, and municipal governments to provide education to public servants on the history of Aboriginal peoples, including the history and legacy of residential schools, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, Treaties and Aboriginal rights, Indigenous law, and Aboriginal–Crown relations. This will require skills-based training in intercultural competency, conflict resolution, human rights, and anti-racism”;
AND WHEREAS cultural awareness training provides the foundation for learning and valuing different perspectives and backgrounds:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM and NCLGA encourage British Columbia local governments to undergo localized Indigenous Cultural Awareness Training and to advance all Calls to Action within the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.
Actions
Letter dated December 5, 2022 from Murray Rankin, KC, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation:
Thank you for your letter dated October 19, 2022 conveying the North Central Local Government Association’s Resolution R11 regarding the importance of localized Indigenous
cultural competency training.
I commend the NCLGA for the resolution. It reflects the importance of training to promote better understanding of the history, cultures, languages, and governance of Indigenous Peoples in their respective communities and regions as well as to be partners in the adoption and implementation of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
It is my understanding that many local governments have established partnerships and programs to provide Indigenous cultural competency training in response to Call to Action #57. For its part, the provincial government has created a range of Indigenous-specific learning resources to educate public servants on the history of Indigenous Peoples and to improve our individual and collective abilities to work effectively with Indigenous communities. I encourage NCLGA to work with Indigenous partners to develop educational resources for staff and elected officials.
Status
Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership | Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership - Amended & Endorsed by the UBCM Membership
WHEREAS the Forest Enhancement Society of BC is committed to supporting projects that reduce greenhouse gases, protect communities from wildfire, improve wildfire habitat and create jobs;
AND WHEREAS uncertainty in funding and resource availability is limiting the Society’s ability to plan, support and complete long-term projects that would benefit British Columbia:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA and UBCM lobby the provincial government for long-term sustainable funding for the Forest Enhancement Society of BC.
Actions
Meeting held December 1, 2022 with NCLGA Executive, Hon. Minister George Heyman, SMA Danielle Monroe, Bob McDonald (ENV-Director), Nat Gosman (EMLI Executive Director), Katherine Muncaster (EMLI – Director), Adrian Hickin (EMLI – Executive Director/Chief Geologist), Darius Low, Ministry of Forests
During discussion on Resolution R10, the following comments were offered:
• The Forest Enhancement Society of BC (Society) has been a proven partner on the delivery of the province’s key commitments to managing climate change, sustainability and reconciliation. There have been significant benefits flow out of the program to BC ‘s forests, Indigenous communities and local communities. It is expected that 93% of the Society’s projects will be completed by end of this fiscal year. This has totaled in 263 projects, generating $238 million and $363 million in economic activity. The success of the project includes 20 community forestry-related projects, and for this fiscal year the province has put an additional $25 million toward the Society to continue that work to reduce the wildfire risk around communities. There was a recent announcement of additional funding to protect Fort Nelson through the Community Forest Association. It is an important program and government is reviewing the feasibility of additional funding to the Society. When that decision is made, you can look forward to an announcement along those lines.
Status
Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership | Endorsed by the NCLGA and UBCM Memberships
WHEREAS there is a critical shortage of veterinarians, particularly for large animals, in BC;
AND WHEREAS the Province of BC sponsors 20 IPA (Inter-Provincial Agreement) students (out of the 140+ who apply) per year for the four-year Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Saskatchewan, and has committed to one year funding for an additional 20 students for 2022-23:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM request the Minister of Advanced Education and the Government of BC commit to funding a total of 40 veterinary students under the Inter-Provincial Agreement in each year for four years at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine.
Actions
Letter dated December 13, 2022 from Bobbi Plekis, Deputy Minister, Ministry of Post Secondary Education and Future Skills:
Thank you for your letter sent to the Honourable Anne Kang, former Minister of Advanced Education and Skills Training, now the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills (PSEFS), regarding North Central Local Government Association (NCLGA)'s 2022 Resolutions. Your correspondence has been forward to me as Deputy Minister. 1 am responding on behalf of PSEFS s new Minister, the Honourable Selina Robinson. 1 apologize for the delayed response. As you know, these items were also adopted as resolutions at the recent Union of British Columbia Municipalities' Conference. 1 am pleased to provide the provincial response to these resolutions in the attached document.
Regarding the veterinarian Care issue, I understand PSEFS staff together with the Ministry of Agriculture and Food, organized a meeitng with regional district representatives of NCLGA and the SOciety of BC Veterinarians which was held on November 28. Supporting increased veterinary care services in rural and remote regions is a shared priority and working together will advance those efforts.
Status
Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership
WHEREAS libraries in British Columbia are largely financed by levies paid by local governments, and where provincial library funding has remained stagnant for the past 10 years;
AND WHEREAS public libraries are central to communities, providing equitable access to vital resources, including internet, computers, digital library tools, and in-person services from expert staff;
AND WHEREAS public libraries provide British Columbians with low-barrier services, that support job seekers and small businesses, that increase literacy in communities, that advance reconciliation with Indigenous peoples, and that promote equity and inclusion:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM urge the Government of British Columbia to provide long-term sustainable funding for public libraries in BC;
AND THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Province ensure that BC libraries will henceforth receive regular increases to provincial government funding in subsequent years.
Actions
Not admitted for debate at UBCM Convention.
Meeting held December 1, 2022 with Hon. Minister Nathan Cullen, Mike Allison (Communications Director), Scott Andrews (Ministerial Advisor), Alanah Connie (Senior Public Affairs Officer), Tara Faganello (Assistant Deputy Minister), Quinn MacTavish (Executive Assistant), Okenge Yuma Morisho (Deputy Minister)
During discussion on Resolutions R9 and L2, the following comments were offered: There was an uplift of $8 million for libraries this year to help digital access and direct funding into communities. The role of libraries have changed significantly; they are one of the only doors open to everybody, all the time, and are an incredible resource with the services, scope, and education they provide. We are looking at the budget for next year.
Status
Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership | Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership - Amended & Endorsed by the UBCM Membership
WHEREAS Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) Programs promote energy efficient building retrofits through loans repaid via property tax requisition, and PACE programs support the reduction of greenhouse gases, target the most inefficient buildings, and can support equity of access for those enduring energy poverty;
AND WHEREAS in 2020 the Province identified PACE as a priority and in 2021 awarded the mandate to develop a Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) Roadmap for British Columbia’s Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy;
AND WHEREAS PACE loans are repaid by homeowners through an addition to annual property tax bills and currently property tax bills are issued by the Province on behalf of regional districts:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA and UBCM request that the Province prioritize the PACE initiative enabling legislation and include consideration for participation by electoral area residents of regional districts.
Actions
Meeting held December 1, 2022 with NCLGA Executive, Hon. Minister George Heyman, SMA Danielle Monroe, Bob McDonald (ENV-Director), Nat Gosman (EMLI Executive Director), Katherine Muncaster (EMLI – Director), Adrian Hickin (EMLI – Executive Director/Chief Geologist)
During discussion on Resolution R8, the following comments were offered: PACE is a shared initiative between Climate Change and EMLI and a tool for building enhancements and retrofits. PACE has been discussed internally with government in regard to red flags which have been raised with implementing PACE, related to the potential of increased costs to homeowners or impeding homeowner security with liens against properties. Monitoring is ongoing on how people address these red flags. The province has not given up on the program but slowed it down as there are a number of other provincial rebates and tools that can be used to fill that space. The Ministry will continue to investigate PACE and other financial tools. If legislation is enabled in the future, we want to be equitable to all Regional Districts (RD) and at some point if we choose to do pilot programs, we will be looking for willing partners and there will be opportunities in your local government association to indicate its interest. We are not proceeding immediately with this but we are considering this tool.
Status
Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership | Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership - Amended & Endorsed by the UBCM Membership
WHEREAS Section 125(7) of the Community Charter and Section 204(2) of the Local Government Act exempt elected officials from disqualification due to absences of 60 consecutive days or 4 consecutive regular scheduled board or council meetings, if the absence is due to illness or injury or is with the leave of the council or board, but does not provide an exemption for new parents;
AND WHEREAS it is recognized that it is important for new parents to have adequate time and energy to spend with their child:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA and UBCM lobby the provincial government to give its urgent attention to the matter of amending the Community Charter and Local Government Act, to include parental leave provisions that would grant elected officials who are new parents an exemption from being disqualified from office for absences of 60 consecutive days or 4 consecutive regular scheduled council or board meetings.
Actions
Meeting held December 6, 2022 with Hon. Minister Nathan Cullen, Mike Allison (Communications Director), Scott Andrews (Ministerial Advisor), Alanah Connie (Senior Public Affairs Officer), Tara Faganello (Assistant Deputy Minister), Quinn MacTavish (Executive Assistant), Okenge Yuma Morisho (Deputy Minister)
During discussion on Resolution R12, the following comments were offered:
We have heard from local governments on this. The overarching challenge is that local elected officials are not staff, so opening it up for this is problematic. We have found that individually, local governments can bring in their own bylaw procedures around meetings and parental leave.
We hear your point about having many rules for many communities. This has happened in other cases; things we would normally see in a workplace do not extend to those on Council. When the Community Charter was passed and went into law, modern technology, et cetera, was not considered and did not keep pace. It is important to attract people who have young families. We are happy to be allies in this.
Response by email from Tara Faganello, Assistant Deputy Minister, as follow up:
As discussed in the meeting, given the complexities of establishing provincial minimum entitlements for parental leave for local elected officials, and the existing authority of local governments to determine their own policies, the province is currently not considering establishing statutory minimum entitlements for parental leave for EOs. However, in recent years, a number of local governments, including, Squamish, Saanich, and Mission have adopted policies to allow EOs to go on parental leave. In addition, CivicInfo BC is currently working on a depository where local governments can share best practices and parental leave policies. The depository will be available early in the new year 2023.
Status
Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership | Endorsed by the NCLGA and UBCM Memberships
WHEREAS registered nurses are in demand throughout British Columbia especially in the northern and rural regions of the province;
AND WHEREAS the Provincial Health Services Authority (PHSA) provides for internationally educated nurses to obtain registration with the British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM) and the regional health authorities are using student nurses programs:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA and UBCM lobby the Province of British Columbia to provide greater support to streamline the registration process for internationally educated nurses to the British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives, set up a financial support process, and bring together all stakeholders (National Nursing Assessment Association, BC College of Nurses and Midwives, BC Nurses Union, Ministry of Health, and Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training) to determine how to integrate internationally educated nurses and employed student nurses to the workforce to address the nursing staffing crisis across the province.
Actions
Letter dated December 13, 2022 from Bobbi Plekis, Deputy Minister, Ministry of Post Secondary Education and Future Skills:
Thank you for your letter sent to the Honourable Anne Kang, former Minister of Advanced Education and Skills Training, now the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills (PSEFS), regarding North Central Local Government Association (NCLGA)'s 2022 Resolutions. Your correspondence has been forward to me as Deputy Minister. 1 am responding on behalf of PSEFS s new Minister, the Honourable Selina Robinson. 1 apologize for the delayed response. As you know, these items were also adopted as resolutions at the recent Union of British Columbia Municipalities' Conference. 1 am pleased to provide the provincial response to these resolutions in the attached document.
The Province, working with regulators and employers, is committed to streamlining the registration process for internationally educated nurses and to establishing processes and supports to facilitate their integration into the workforce to address workforce needs. The Ministry of Health is leading work in this area, but 1 would look forward to supporting any conversations where post-secondary training may be part of the solution. Thank you again for writing to me.
Status
Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership | Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership - Amended & Endorsed by the UBCM Membership
WHEREAS the recent pandemic exposed the lack of health care resources in rural British Columbia and resulted in many individuals being forced to leave their community for further evaluation and treatment;
AND WHEREAS accessible, reliable, and effective local medical services should be available to all British Columbians especially during significant illness events that impact the majority of residents:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM lobby the provincial government to further support the development of improved local medical services that meet the needs of all rural British Columbians.
Actions
Pending response to letter to Minister requesting meeting to discuss resolution.
Status
Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership
WHEREAS the sexual exploitation and trafficking of youth, children and the vulnerable is increasing in Canada as reported by Statistics Canada, Federal Public Safety Ministry, Canadian Centre to End Trafficking and the Trafficking in Persons Report 2020 (USA State Department);
AND WHEREAS the trafficking profile in Canada disproportionately involves women and children from Indigenous communities, migrants and new immigrants, LGBTI persons, persons with disability, youth, children and the vulnerable:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM call on the RCMP, city police forces and local governments to work collaboratively in order to implement the recommendations found in the Federal National Action Plan under Federal Public Safety, that there be Provincial Awareness Campaigns in place to augment the work of the National Centre to End Human Trafficking, and that Inter-agency Task Forces (as exist to combat drug and gang violence) be put in place.
Actions
Not admitted for debate at UBCM Convention
Pending response to letter to Minister requesting meeting to discuss resolution.
Status
Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership | Endorsed by the NCLGA and UBCM Memberships
WHEREAS in the majority of rural and remote geographical sections of British Columbia, first responder resources are limited and comprised mostly of volunteers;
AND WHEREAS there are often numerous 9-1-1 calls over a period of time relating to one incident, requiring repeat response to the same incident, which leaves small communities at risk of having no responders available to attend other emergency calls, creates unnecessary costs to the Province, and exacerbates emergency personnel burnout:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM petition the Provincial Government to expand the Yellow Ribbon/All Clear initiative, province wide, and implement public education and awareness of the initiative that is already in use in some areas of the province;
AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Province supply Yellow Ribbon/All Clear tape to all emergency response agencies in the province.
Actions
Pending response to letter to Minister requesting meeting to discuss resolution.
Status
Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership | Endorsed by the NCLGA and UBCM Memberships
WHEREAS prolific offenders in British Columbia are routinely released without consequences or meaningful conditions imposed upon them;
AND WHEREAS the BC Prosecution Service’s vision statement guides them to make impartial charge assessment decisions that promote public safety, justice, and respect for the rule of law;
AND WHEREAS the BC Prosecution Service often determines not to recommend charges be pursued for criminal offenses that are referred by the RCMP, as charges are not in the public interest:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM ask the provincial government to ensure the BC Prosecution Service (Crown Counsel) live up to its vision, mission, and value statements and consider public safety and fairness when dealing with prolific offenders, and furthermore that guidelines be developed as to what constitutes “the public interest” with respect to pursuing charges for criminal offences.
Actions
Pending response to letter to Minister requesting meeting to discuss resolution.
Status
Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership | Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership - Amended & Endorsed by the UBCM Membership
WHEREAS the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) and the Government of British Columbia have perpetuated inequitable regional basic insurance coverage value beginning in 2001 or earlier;
AND WHEREAS the Government of British Columbia, through Order in Council 458/2018, directed the BC Utilities Commission to approve an ICBC Basic Insurance Rate Design;
AND WHEREAS the 2018 Basic Insurance Rate Design acknowledges, but does not immediately correct, the inequity:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request that a new ICBC Basic Insurance Rate Design be developed immediately that conclusively corrects the regional inequity;
AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that UBCM request that ICBC and the Government of British Columbia explore opportunities for regional redress such as elimination of windshield deductibles, winter tire subsidies and regional variation in low-use discounts.
Actions
Letter dated December 28, 2022 from Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, and Deputy Premier
Thank you for your emails of October 19 and 20, 2022, regarding North Central Local Government Association (NCLGA) Resolution RI. As the Minister responsible for the Insurance Corporation of BC (ICBC), 1 am pleased to respond and 1 apologize for the delay in doing so. It is important to note that the Province' s response to NCGLA Resolutions are coordinated through the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) and Ministry of Municipal Affairs resolution process. NCLGA Resolution RI , referred to by UCBM as Resolution EB65, was reviewed by the Province and an official response will be provided when the resolution process is complete. In the meantime, 1 can share that government' s mandate for ICBC is to ensure auto insurance rates are fair and affordable for all British Columbians. Territory is only one of the factors that helps to determine insurance premiums. Rate design is intended to make premiums fairer for all drivers by taking more customer specific risk factors into account and provides residents of rural regions with a reduction in the territory component over the course of 10 years. Over the past four years, ICBC has undertaken initiatives to make premiums more affordable for customers in all regions, including the cost savings under Enhanced Care and various refunds and rebates. Regarding NCLGA Resolution ER2, this matter falls under the purview of the Ministry of Attorney General. Thank you again for writing.
Status
Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership
WHEREAS the Provincial Sales Tax is already applied at the time of purchase to applicable new items, used items sold at thrift shops and a selection of used item sold through private sales;
AND WHEREAS the re-use of items, helps alleviate emission levels, landfill pressures and provide options for addressing the rising cost of living;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA and UBCM lobby the Province to not extend the application of the Provincial Sales Tax beyond current items or practices.
Actions
Not admitted for debate at UBCM Convention.
Letter dated November 17, 2022 from Selina Robinson, Minister of Finance:
Thank you for your thoughtful letter sent on October 19, 2022, regarding NCLGA’s proposed resolution to local government concerns in north-central BC. I appreciate you taking the time to share your ideas and feedback with me.
Thank you for your suggestion to not extend the application of BC’s Provincial Sales Tax beyond current items or practices. While I appreciate the opportunity to meet with you to discuss the resolution in detail, I must respectfully decline at this time.
Each year, government reviews provincial taxes and considers changes in preparation of the provincial budget. Government then implements tax changes that it considers to be appropriate within the context of the province’s fiscal situation and other priorities. Be assured that your comments will be considered as part of these discussions.
Thank you again for taking the time to write. Your ideas are important to us and I appreciate your input on how we can build a better BC.
Status
Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership | Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership - Amended & Endorsed by the UBCM Membership
WHEREAS access to Energy Advisors and materials is required for communities to meet Provincial policies;
AND WHEREAS there is limited access to Energy Advisors and the required materials, located in northern, rural and remote communities, to meet the implementation of Provincial timelines;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA and UBCM continue to lobby the Province to secure additional Energy Advisors, make grants available and review implementation timelines for the northern, rural and remote communities.
Actions
Pending response to letter sent to Minister requesting meeting to discuss resolution.
Status
Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership | Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership - Amended & Endorsed by the UBCM Membership
WHEREAS transportation corridors are critical pieces of infrastructure;
AND WHEREAS provincial spending on transportation is insufficient to maintain provincial highways and bridges across the province;
AND WHEREAS climate emergencies are emerging more frequently:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA lobby the province to increase the annual budgeted figure for roads and bridges.
Actions
Meeting held January 9, 2023 with Minister Fleming and NCLGA Executive.
Status
Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership
WHEREAS crime is increasing at an alarming rate at the local, provincial, and national levels, and the criminal justice system has become a ‘revolving door’;
AND WHEREAS rehabilitation models of justice are seen to work in other countries and the current model of our justice system focuses on policing rather than rehabilitating;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM request the Province to advocate for the dismantling and rebuilding of the Criminal Justice Act, including amendments to Crown Council, to include trauma informed education, prevention, treatment and a focus on truth and reconciliation at the local, provincial and federal levels.
Actions
Not submitted for Debate at UBCM Convention.
Status
Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership | Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership - Amended & Endorsed by the UBCM Membership
WHEREAS BC local governments are now required to do a Housing Needs Assessment every five years, and these Assessments are now showing that there is a lack of affordable housing in communities across BC;
AND WHEREAS the most recent UBCM Housing Report shows that development is increasing at the rate of the population growth;
AND WHEREAS housing remains under the provincial jurisdiction with BC Housing is responsible for the Provincial strategic housing action plan;
AND WHEREAS the rising cost of housing is making homeownership impossible for low income households;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA lobby the Province of BC to ask that BC Housing develop strategies including but not limited to building incentives for rural, remote and northern communities, so as to entice affordable housing in all areas of the Province.