Funding and resources update: December 2023

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.

In Memoriam: Helen Poon

With sadness we mark the sudden passing of Helen Poon, a former Port Alberni councillor who served on the UBCM Executive as a director at large in 2019-2020. Helen was visiting friends in New Zealand over the holiday when she died from a car crash.

Local Government Awareness Week:

May 12-18, 2024

The newly released 2024 UBCM Calendar has incorrectly noted the date of Local Government Awareness Week as May 19-25. The correct date is May 12-18, 2024; Asset Management Awareness Day is Wednesday, May 15, 2024.

Please mark the correct date on any physical 2024 UBCM calendars in your office, and use May 12-18 as you begin planning for Local Government Awareness Week in your communities.

Third intake for Connecting Communities BC

is open

The third intake of the Connecting Communities BC (CCBC) funding program opened for applications on Jan 8, 2024. Through CCBC, the Province aims to provide high-speed internet access to all remaining underserved households and First Nation communities by 2027.

Electoral Area Directors’ Forum 2024 Agenda

The agenda for the upcoming Electoral Area Directors’ Forum on January 30 and 31 in Richmond, BC has been published. Confirmed sessions include housing updates from Parliamentary Secretary Roly Russell, emergency management legislation, rural connectivity, and the Fire Safety Act. Registration is open.

Nominations open for the 2024 Community Award and 2024 BC Reconciliation Award

BC Achievement is accepting nominations for the two award programs until January 31.

The Community Award program celebrates and stewards outstanding British Columbians while elevating their stories of excellence. Individuals are celebrated for their efforts in raising the quality and character of their communities while serving as the ultimate example of dedication and excellence. A new Emerging Leader designation for the award program has been added to recognize and celebrate young people who are making a difference in their communities and striving to make BC a better place. This distinction will acknowledge the incredible dedication and efforts of young leaders. 

The BC Reconciliation Award, delivered in partnership with the Office of the Lieutenant Governor, recognizes individuals, groups and organizations who demonstrate exceptional leadership, integrity, respect, and commitment to furthering the Calls to Action outlined in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s report; and/or inspired others to do so.

UBCM IN THE NEWS

UBCM president Trish Mandewo spoke to Black Press about the court ruling on BC’s decriminalization efforts.

“Decriminalization requires an appropriate level of regulation to retain the support of the public,” she said, adding that there is a clear need for more resources to help people. “The level of use in public spaces demonstrates much more is needed to provide more complex care and housing and treatment options,” she said.