Convention Keynote Margaret Atwood; Economic recovery; Executive nominations

2020 UBCM Convention keynote: Margaret Atwood

UBCM is very pleased to welcome internationally recognized author Margaret Atwood who will address delegates during our 2020 Convention. Ms. Atwood will explore the themes of climate change, COVID-19 and community in a session that promises to be thought provoking, insightful and animated with Atwood's acerbic humour. Read more

Record response for UBCM nominations

A total of 26 local elected officials have put their name forward to serve on UBCM's Executive nominations for 2020-21. Following the close for nominations on July 31, candidates running for President, First VP, Second VP, Electoral Area Representative and Small Community Representative are acclaimed, while elections will occur for Third VP, Director at Large and Vancouver Metro Area Representative. Read more

Special Committee on economic recovery

In response to the Province's consultation Building BC's Recovery, Together, UBCM conveyed a submission on behalf of BC local governments. The submission reflects the issues flagged by members including: infrastructure stimulus funding, local government financial recovery, public transit, broadband connectivity and the societal impacts of COVID-19 on communities. Read more

Convention registration update

In recognition of the unique conditions facing all local governments in 2020, there will not be a late registration fee increase for our annual Convention. This year's event will be held September 22-24. Details on the various speakers, workshops and resolutions will be rolling out over the ensuing weeks.

UBCM Executive meeting highlights

Executive members met on July 15-17 for their quarterly Committee and board meetings. The July meeting provides closure on a number of year-end matters but also establishes direction for the year ahead. In addition to advancing virtual Convention planning and programming, Executive members discussed the 2020 resolutions process, and received a delegation from the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, Honourable Selina Robinson. Read more

Funding & Resources update

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. Read more

Navigating the Complexities of COVID-19

Join the Local Government Leadership Academy and Municipal Insurance Association of British Columbia in a webinar that will explore the risks local governments face in the wake of COVID-19. The webinar will include panelists from across B.C.'s local government sector and will be held on Tuesday August 18th, 2020 at 2pm-3:30pm. Registration is free but spots are limited.

Economic development resources

Dig in to virtual, online economic development info with the BC Ideas Exchange webinar series. Join speakers from a variety of economic development backgrounds to share economic development successes and learn about new economic development programs initiatives, trends, tools and resources.

August 12, 2020