Old growth; plastics bylaws; EA Directors session; first responders consultation

Old Growth report released

On September 11th the Province announced the release of A New Future for Old Forests: What we Heard. The report by panel members Al Gorley and Gary Merkel, outlines a four-phased process that the Province should undertake to develop and implement an old growth strategy. Read more

Changes proposed to the Municipal Pension Plan

Plan partners of the Municipal Pension Plan are proposing changes to update the Plan. The proposed changes have been guided by an approach focused on: improving equity for members; aligning benefits with how the majority of members use them; setting a strong foundation for the long-term sustainability of the plan; and staying within the current cost envelope. Read more

Plastics bylaws approved; expanded EPR under consideration

The Province is moving to approve bylaws banning single-use plastics for Richmond, Victoria, Saanich, Tofino and Ucluelet, which would allow those communities to implement their bans. The Province will also consider other bylaws as they are submitted. Read more

Consultation on licensing of First Responders

The provincial government is seeking feedback on proposed changes to licensing of first responders (FR) to ensure that all emergency medical assistants (EMAs) are examined to the same standards. Currently, training institutions or fire departments can administer the practical examinations for first responders. Local governments and their protective services branches are asked to provide feedback on the proposed options by September 30, 2020. Read more

Save the date: EA Directors' discussion

Electoral Area Directors will have an opportunity to meet and discuss issues in a virtual session following the UBCM Convention on October 5th, 10 am - 12pm. This session will replace the EA Directors Forum that is typically part of the UBCM Convention program. If you would normally attend this session, please save this date. More details to come.

RCMP tracker shows modernization progress

The RCMP has introduced an ongoing modernization project in advance of its 150th anniversary in 2023. Vision 150 focuses on internal RCMP modernization, as well as initiatives to enhance overall policing services. Recently, the RCMP publicly released its results tracker to illustrate the status of the project initiatives. Cost impacts are expected to be included in the multi-year financial plans. Read more

Climate and Energy Action Awards

As in previous years, the Community Energy Association's Climate and Energy Action Awards will be announced at the UBCM Convention. These awards recognize the efforts of communities across BC in reducing community and corporate energy use and decreasing greenhouse gas emissions; as well as municipal leadership on climate change adaptation. A nomination video showcases all the projects being considered for the awards. Winners will be announced on September 23rd.

September 16, 2020