Gary Paget: In Memoriam

UBCM’s Executive and staff are saddened to hear of the recent passing of Gary Paget, a man who left an indelible legacy on BC’s local governments.

“Gary was well known to local governments throughout the province,” said UBCM President Jen Ford. “He was pragmatic and solution-oriented but had the gift of seeing the big picture on issues. He had a deep and long-term commitment to strengthening the framework that supports local government. He has been missed since his retirement, and now we will miss him even more.”

Call for nominations to UBCM’s Executive

A Call for Nominations has been issued for local elected officials wishing to serve on the 2023-2024 UBCM Executive. The deadline for advance nominations is Monday, July 31, 2023, at 4:00 pm.

Campaign supports family of deceased Oak Bay employee

A fundraising campaign has been started to support the family of Steve Seekins, a District of Oak Bay public works employee. Mr. Seekins was struck and killed by a motor vehicle last week while inspecting a manhole cover. He is survived by a wife and two school-aged children. UBCM extends its heartfelt sympathies to his family and his District of Oak Bay colleagues.

Keeping it Rural Conference

There is still time to register for the Keeping it Rural conference in Kelowna on June 1-2. Speakers include Clarence Louie, Chief of the Osoyoos Indian Band; Roly Russell, Parliamentary Secretary for Rural Development; and Dr. Sean Markey, professor at the School of Resource and Environmental Management, Simon Fraser University. The conference, hosted by the BC Rural Centre, will showcase successful and innovative rural development initiatives and strengthen ties among rural, remote and Indigenous communities.

Mass Timber Advisory Council appointment

Local elected officials Interested in serving on the Province’s Mass Timber Advisory Council, are asked to submit expressions of interest by June 2, 2023.

Clinic proposals invited for UBCM Convention

The deadline for clinic and workshop applications for the 2023 UBCM Convention in Vancouver is Friday, June 2. Interested parties are asked to review the criteria and deadlines in the Session Proposal Process and submit a proposal using the online form.

Come and meet us at GFOA

UBCM is looking forward to attending the upcoming GFOA Annual Conference June 1-2 at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler to represent our Group Benefits Plan. Be sure to stop by our tradeshow booth to learn more about the Plan and drop your business card off to qualify for some great prizes.