Decriminalization and Local Governments

UBCM members voted in support of the three-year decriminalization of possession of certain illicit drugs in 2021. Members also called for legislative and funding frameworks to support its implementation, free and safe supply, and suitable medical treatments. As the decriminalization period proceeds, some municipalities are raising concerns about the use of these drugs in parks, playgrounds, and other public spaces. This article contains an update on UBCM Executive’s position, the policies UBCM is advocating for, and resources available for local governments.

Provincial recommendation on Surrey Policing

The Province has delivered a recommendation that the City of Surrey continue with the Surrey Policing Transition, which would see the Surrey Police Service replace the RCMP as the police agency of jurisdiction. The City has also been offered short-term provincial funding to offset the annual cost difference between the Surrey RCMP and Surrey Police Service.

2023 Advocacy Days focused on housing, community safety, and economic development

During the 2023 Advocacy Days, UBCM Executive members met with 33 MLAs from all parties including Premier Eby, 11 ministers, leader of the Official Opposition Kevin Falcon, BC Green party leader Sonia Furstenau, and both caucus chairs to discuss local government priorities. Our three priorities were: community safety, housing, and community economic development.

UBCM is seeking expressions of interest from local elected officials wishing to serve on the Province’s Mass Timber Advisory Council. Interested candidates are asked to submit their expressions of interest by June 2, 2023.

UBCM Executive Meeting highlights

The UBCM Executive held its spring quarterly committee and board meetings in Victoria from April 18-21 in conjunction with 2023 Advocacy Days. In addition to regular business, Executive members had an opportunity to share UBCM’s Advocacy Priorities with the Honourable Anne Kang, Minister of Municipal Affairs, Premier Eby, and MLAs.

Each year, UBCM presents Long Service Awards to eligible local elected officials at the Annual UBCM Convention who have served a total of 25 or 35 years of service. Nominations are being accepted until August 25, 2023.

Contribute to the provincial Watershed Security Strategy

The Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship is currently developing a Watershed Security Strategy, and will be consulting with local governments this May regarding its intentions paper.

Support for local governments to improve accessibility

Free workplace disability management assessments are available for BC local governments, as well as up to $7,500 to implement the recommendations. These assessments can assist local governments in meeting their requirements for accessibility plans under the Accessible BC Act legislation.

The Province announced continued funding for the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund earlier this year. Funding permitting, new application deadlines have been scheduled for the remainder of 2023/24 and 2024/25. This fund is intended to support BC communities to better prepare for emergencies and climate change.

Each month we provide an update on UBCM funding programs and information on other programs, events, and resources that may be of interest to local governments and First Nations.