Annual Report 2014 - North Central Local Government...

ANNUAL REPORT2014

Spence Henderson Director at Large

Laurey Roodenburg Director at Large

Dave Wilbur Director at Large

Bruce D. Christensen

President Brian Frenkel

1st

Vice President Bruce Bidgood

2nd

Vice President Mitch Campsall Past President

Luke Strimbold

Bulkley Nechako Joan Sorley

Cariboo

Mike Frazier Fraser-Fort George

Lynne Christiansen Kitimat-Stikine

Kim Eglinski Northern Rockies

Jerrilyn Schembri Peace River

Dave MacDonald Skeena-Qn. Charlotte

NCLGA EXECUTIVE 2013-2014

CONTENTS

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President’s Report………………………………………………………….…….2

Minutes of the 2013 Business Sessions…………………………………...3-31

Financials………………………………………………………………...…32-36

Financial Statements………………………………………………...…32-35

Proposed Budget 2014-2015………………………………………...……36

Nominations…………………………………………………………….….37-46

Nominations Committee Report………………………………….…….…37

Nominees for NCLGA Executive 2014-2015…………………….......38-44

Nominee for President: Brian Frenkel……………………………..……..38

Nominee for 1st Vice President: Bruce A. Bidgood…………...…………39

Nominee for 2nd Vice President: Laurey-Anne Roodenburg……….…..40

Nominee for 2nd Vice President: Jerrilyn Schembri……….………..…...41

Nominee for 2nd Vice President: Dave Wilbur………………….….….…42

Nominees for Director at Large……………………………..……..….....43-44

Nominee: Raj Basran………………………………………………..……..43

Nominee: Shaely Wilbur…………………………………….……………..44

Appointed Regional Representatives 2014-2015………………………..….45

Terms of Reference for Positions on the Executive of the NCLGA……….46

NCLGA Membership List 2014-2015…………………………………….......47

Resolutions…………………………………..………………………….….48-73

NCLGA Resolutions Committee 2014…………………………………....48

Resolutions Debate Process………………………………………...…….49

Resolutions Table of Contents…………………………………………….50

Executive Resolution……………………………………………………….51

Member Resolutions…………………………………………………....52-85

Late Resolutions…………………………………………………..…….86-87

President’s Report NCLGA President Bruce D. Christensen Councillor, City of Fort St John

It is my pleasure, on behalf of the members of the NCLGA Executive and our staff

to welcome you to our 59th Annual General Meeting and Convention.

I hope that you will enjoy your time in Fort St John. Take time to get to know my city and my friends. We

are really a great big family and we want you to have the best time that you could have anywhere.

This annual convention gives us a unique opportunity for all of the elected voices to come together and

to discuss common issues and problems facing our communities, as well as our constituents.

I sincerely hope that you will take the opportunity to network with colleagues and friends, as well as

meet new friends. We will welcome you on Wednesday with a special tour of a natural gas facility for

some and golf for others. We will start the proceedings with a session where you will have input into

where our organization should be going in the future. This year we have taken a higher advocacy

approach so as to promote our region to the rest of the province, and in particular the provincial

government. Is this what you want; should we do more, or should we stay more passive.

You will enjoy a welcome by the community on Wednesday night, where we will showcase our Pomeroy

Sport Center. It truly is a one of a kind, ok, maybe one of only three in the world, type of sporting facility.

Throughout the rest of the conference I am sure you will be enthused by the presentations and

speakers. Make sure that you are in attendance at the banquet on Thursday night.

This year we will be ending the conference on Friday afternoon at 5pm, as we have heard from many

that they need to get away before Saturday morning.

You will recall that we elect our executive at the AGM as well. So please make sure you are there to

represent you constituents and to vote for whom you would like to see lead this organization into the

future. We have some excellent nominations already. We do accept nominations from the floor.

It has been a pleasure and an honour to be the President for the past year. It has been an experience

that I will never forget. I hope that in some small way, I have been responsible for moving ahead this

great organization which has been around for 59 years.

I thank you.

Yours sincerely

Bruce D. Christensen

NCLGA President

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MINUTES OF THE 2013 BUSINESS SESSIONS North Central Local Government Association (NCLGA) Convention

Quesnel Seniors’ Centre – May 1-3, 2013

1. Call to Order

North Central Local Government (NCLGA) President Mitch Campsall called the 2013

Annual General Meeting to order at 9:39 am on May 2, 2013.

2. President’s Report

President Mitch Campsall welcomed the delegates, sponsors and speakers to the 58th

Annual NCLGA Convention. During his address, he urged communities to consider

hosting a future NCLGA, reminded members to cast their votes, thanked the seven (7)

UBCM members from the NCLGA for their hard work, and shared that NCLGA is one of

the first governmental organizations joined by a First Nations’ Community.

Additionally, President Campsall noted the significant strides being undertaken by St.

Joseph’s Mission through their Commemoration Project – Truth & Reconciliation. A

series of collaborations and events that are historical in that they include members of all

local governments, all local First Nations, School District, RCMP and various service clubs

– working together. Contact Joan Sorely, Cariboo Regional District, for more

information or details

MOVED by Jack Mussallem, City of Prince Rupert

SECONDED by Jim Glassford, Cariboo Regional District

THAT the President’s Report be accepted as presented.

3. Adoption of Minutes

MOVED by Jim Glassford, Cariboo Regional District

SECONDED by Bruce Bidgood, City of Terrace

That the minutes of the Annual General Meeting held May 3-4, 2012 be adopted.

CARRIED

4. Financial Statements


SECONDED by Bruce Bidgood, City of Terrace

THAT the Financial Statements of March 31, 2013, be adopted.

CARRIED

Appointment of Accountants

MOVED by Karen Goodings, Peace River Regional District

SECONDED by Dave Wilbur, City of Prince George

THAT KPMG LLP Chartered Accountants be appointed as the North Central Local

Government Association’s Accountants for 2014.

CARRIED

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MINUTES OF THE 2013 BUSINESS SESSIONS

North Central Local Government Association (NCLGA) Convention

Present Budget

MOVED by Shaely Wilbur, City of Dawson Creek

SECONDED by Larry Evans, City of Fort St. John

THAT the proposed 2013/2014 budget be approved.

CARRIED

5. Nominations Committee Report

Art Kaehn, Chair of the Nominations Committee, presented the Nominations Report,

explained the process whereby the new executive would be elected and, provided

explanation of voting cards and location of the voting booth.

MOVED by Bruce Bidgood, City of Terrace

SECONDED by Jack Mussallem, City of Prince Rupert

THAT the Committee accept the nominations set out in the Nominations Committee

Report.

CARRIED

6. Nominations for NCLGA Executive from the Floor

Nominations for President

Bruce Christensen, City of Fort St. John, was nominated for the position of President.

Past President Art Kaehn called three times for nominations from the Floor; no further

nominations were received.

Bruce Christensen, City of Fort St. John, was declared President by acclamation.

Nominations for First Vice-President

Brian Frenkel, District of Vanderhoof, was nominated for the position of First Vice-

President. Past President Art Kaehn called three times for nominations from the Floor;

no further nominations were received.

Brian Frenkel, District of Vanderhoof, was declared First Vice-President by acclamation.

Nominations for Second Vice-President

Laurey-Anne Roodenburg, City of Quesnel, Bruce Bidgood, City of Terrace and, Dave

Wilbur, City of Prince George, were nominated for the position of Second Vice-

President. Past President Art Kaehn called three times for nominations from the Floor;

no further nominations were received.

The nominees were each given 2 minutes to address the Floor; B.Bidgood,

L.Roodenburg then, D.Wilbur. Attendees were reminded of voting times.

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1ST

BUSINESS SESSION ADJOURNED AT 10:11 am, May 2, 2013

2ND

BUSINESS SESSION COMMENCED AT 2:00 pm, May 2, 2013

Second Vice-President

Art Kaehn, Chair of the Nominations Committee, announced the results of the vote for

Second Vice President. Bruce Bidgood, City of Terrace, was the successful candidate.

MOVED by Bruce Christensen, City of Fort St. John

SECONDED by Jerrilyn Schembri, Peace River Regional District

CARRIED

7. Nominations for Director-at-Large

Art Kaehn, Chair of the Nominations Committee, announced that there were three

positions available for Director-at-Large and that there were the following five

nominations:

• Ellen Cranston, Village of Queen Charlotte

• Spence Henderson, District of 100 Mile House

• Steve Little, District of Vanderhoof

• Ernest Pfanner, District of Chetwynd

• Shaely Wilbur, City of Dawson Creek

Nominations from the floor for Director-at-Large

Art Kaehn, Chair of the Nominations Committee, called for nominations from the floor

and, the following nominations were received:

• Laurey-Anne Roodenburg, City of Quesnel

MOVED by Scott Elliott, City of Quesnel

SECONDED by John Brisco, City of Quesnel

• Dave Wilbur, City of Prince George

MOVED by Murry Krause, City of Prince George

SECONDED by Garth Frizzell, City of Prince George

7 candidates for 3 positions. Nominations for Director-at-Large were closed. Each

nominee had the opportunity to give a two-minute speech.

Art Kaehn, Chair of the Nominations Committee, reviewed the procedure for voting for

the three Director-at-Large positions and the timeframe in which to do so.

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8. Resolutions Debate

The Resolutions Debate was opened by Mike Frazier, Village of McBride, at 2:19 pm. An

introduction to the panel was given, together with a brief of the process prior to

commencement.

TABLE OF CONTENTS EXECUTIVE RESOLUTIONS ............................................................................................................................................... 5

A1: AIR AMBULANCE SERVICES .................................................................................................................................... 5 A2: SHADOW POPULATIONS ....................................................................................................................................... 5 A3: CONFLICT OF INTEREST .......................................................................................................................................... 7 A4: SENIORS’ HOUSING ............................................................................................................................................... 7

MEMBER RESOLUTIONS .................................................................................................................................................. 7 COMMUNITY AND RESOURCES ....................................................................................................................................... 7

B1: MANAGEMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES ............................................................................................................. 8 ENVIRONMENT ............................................................................................................................................................... 8

B2: BROWNFIELDS ....................................................................................................................................................... 8 B3: NOXIOUS WEEDS AND RANGE LANDS ................................................................................................................... 9

FINANCE ........................................................................................................................................................................10 B4: PUBLIC SECTOR FINANCIAL STATEMENTS .............................................................................................................10 B5: TAX REVENUE FOR THE PROTECTION OF ANIMALS ...............................................................................................12 B6: EVALUATION OF APPLICATIONS FOR INFRASTRUCTURE FUNDING .......................................................................12

HEALTH ..........................................................................................................................................................................14 B7: HEALTH SERVICE CONSULTATION .........................................................................................................................14 B8: MENINGITIS VACCINATIONS IN BC .......................................................................................................................14

JUSTICE & PROTECTIVE SERVICES ...................................................................................................................................15 B9: EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PLANS FOR DAMS IN BC ..........................................................................................15 B10: EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION ...............................................................................................................................16 B11: PROLIFIC OFFENDERS ..........................................................................................................................................17

LEGISLATIVE ...................................................................................................................................................................18 B12: COMMUNITY CHARTER / LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT AMENDMENT ...................................................................18 B13: HERITAGE WEEK .................................................................................................................................................19 B14: COMPULSORY LABELING OF GMO FOOD ............................................................................................................19 B15: RESTRICTIONS ON BEAR SPRAY AND MACHETES ................................................................................................20

SOCIAL ISSUES ...............................................................................................................................................................20 B16: INCREASE IN SOCIAL ASSISTANCE RATES ............................................................................................................20 B17: STANDARDIZATION OF SOCIAL ASSISTANCE RATES ............................................................................................21

TRANSPORTATION & COMMUNICATION .......................................................................................................................21 B18: ALL TERRAIN VEHICLE OPERATION ON PUBLIC ROADS .......................................................................................21 B19: HIGHWAY 16 UPGRADES AND IMPROVEMENTS .................................................................................................22 B20: REVIEW OF BC ROAD MAINTENANCE STANDARDS .............................................................................................23 B21: HIGHWAY 16 WINTER MAINTENANCE CLASSIFICATION ......................................................................................24 B22: PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION ..................................................................................................................................24 B23: TELEPHONE & INTERNET SERVICE DURING AN EMERGENCY ...............................................................................25 B24: EXPANSION OF BROADBAND SERVICES ..............................................................................................................26

LATE & EMERGING RESOLUTIONS ..................................................................................................................................26 LR1: PROTECTION OF SMALL COMMUNITY GRANTS ...................................................................................................26

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EXECUTIVE RESOLUTIONS

A1: AIR AMBULANCE SERVICES NCLGA EXECUTIVE

WHEREAS the current model for delivery of air ambulance services for people in the north of BC is

inadequate for providing timely access to specialized emergency medical services as required;

AND WHEREAS reliable air ambulance transportation in rural and remote communities in the far north

of BC is key to the life-sustaining treatment and recovery of British Columbians:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM lobby the Provincial Government to further support

the development of a reliable air ambulance service that fully meets the emergency health care needs of

all British Columbians.

Background Information: Prince George Citizen Newspaper article:

www.nclga.ca/Files/HelicopterDebate_Medical.pdf

UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership has endorsed several resolutions that have asked for a higher

quality of medical services in small communities (2012-B93), additional medical transportation services

for rural communities (2012-B38), more funding and staffing for BC Ambulance Service to ensure timely

responses throughout the province (2007-B50, 2007-B156), and smaller aircraft for BC air ambulances

that can consistently access rural locations (1998-B98).

NCLGA Membership: CARRIED

A2: SHADOW POPULATIONS NCLGA EXECUTIVE

WHEREAS local governments in rural British Columbia are experiencing a growing number of people

living adjacent to their borders which is placing additional service provision pressures on these

communities;

AND WHEREAS the local governments are not presently allowed to include this “shadow” population in

their overall population count even though municipal services are utilized by them:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA and UBCM lobby the Provincial Government to amend the

Community Charter to allow local governments the ability to conduct municipal census similar to

Alberta’s Municipal Government Act’s Determination of Population Regulation 63/2001 and Amendment

10/2013.

Background Information:

Province of Alberta, Municipal Government Act, Determination of Population Regulation

Alberta Regulation 63/2001

http://municipalaffairs.gov.ab.ca/documents/msb/Determination_of_Population_Regulation.pdf

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Shadow population

2.1(1) A municipal authority may apply to the Minister to have the shadow population included as part

of the municipal census if the shadow population in a municipality is

(a) greater than 1000 persons, or

(b) less than 1000 persons but greater in number than 10% of the permanent population.

(2) An application under subsection (1) must be made prior to the municipal authority conducting the

municipal census.

(3) The shadow population for a municipal authority must be verified every 3 years by a count held in

the period starting on April 1 and ending on June 30 of the same year.

(4) The Minister shall determine whether the shadow population may be included as part of the

municipal authority’s municipal census.

(5) If the Minister permits a municipal authority to use the shadow population as part of the municipal

census, the municipal authority must submit the results of the count of the shadow population, in the

form set out in Schedule 3, to the Minister before September 1 of the year in which the municipal

census is conducted.

UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting that the

provincial government amend the formula for funding health services in remote communities to reflect

populations living outside the boundaries of a particular local government that access health services

located within the boundaries of that local government.

However, UBCM members have consistently endorsed resolutions that would improve health care in

small, rural and remote communities of BC. These resolutions have called for:

• sufficient medical services in small communities (2012- B93)

• universities and communities to encourage medical program graduates to practice and stay in

rural areas of BC (2011-B60);

• changes to the International Medical Graduate (IMG) Program which prohibits Canadians

trained as doctors in other Commonwealth countries or the US from returning to Canada to

practice (2009-B148);

• increased funding for universities and other medical training facilities so they can supply a larger

number of graduates (2008-B49);

• medical education programs to identify and develop appropriate changes in the Canadian

medical education system required to ensure that general practitioners can meet the needs of

rural Canadians, such as proficiency in surgery, anesthesia and obstetrics (2010-B112);

• the expansion of services and funding for people with mental illness and addictions, especially in

small and midsize communities (2010-B42)

• standby ambulance attendants in rural and remote communities receive the same pay as those

in other areas of the Province, and that all areas of BC be entitled to equal service (2006- B48);

• UBCM advise the provincial government that it considers the removal of qualified ambulance

personnel from rural areas, without provision of an alternative service for those rural residents,

is totally unacceptable (1996-B5);

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• the availability of smaller aircraft that can consistently access rural locations. (1998- B98); and

• the Province improve affordable public transportation service between small rural municipalities

and hospitals in larger urban centres in British Columbia (2009-B15).

NCLGA Membership:

CARRIED

A3: CONFLICT OF INTEREST NCLGA EXECUTIVE

WHEREAS on January 11, 2013 the Court of Appeal overturned the BC Supreme Court decision in

Schlenker v. Torgrimson, which was a decision alleging that members of the Salt Spring Local Trust

Committee were in conflict because of their participation on the boards of directors of not-for- profit

organizations.

AND WHEREAS as a result of the Court of Appeal’s decision local governments across the Province and

particularly small rural local governments are suffering hardship and inconvenience, as often the pool of

volunteers who participate in non-profit boards is small and elected officials fill these volunteer director

positions:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA requests that UBCM urge the Province to provide a

regulatory response to the precedent setting conflict of interest Schlenker v. Torgrimson decision that

would create an exemption of a disqualifying pecuniary conflict of interest arising only because of the

role of an elected official as a director of a society or a local government corporation.


A4: SENIORS’ HOUSING NCLGA EXECUTIVE

WHEREAS the lack of appropriate affordable housing, particularly in small rural BC communities makes

it difficult for seniors and those with special needs to age in place;

AND WHEREAS access to safe, affordable and appropriate housing helps to create vibrant, sustainable

communities:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM urge the Provincial and Federal Governments to

work with community partners to develop solutions to the lack of seniors’ housing and to provide the

necessary long-term funding to support the construction of a full range of affordable seniors’ housing

choices across British Columbia.


MEMBER RESOLUTIONS

COMMUNITY AND RESOURCES

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B1: MANAGEMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES PEACE RIVER REGIONAL DISTRICT

WHEREAS Northeast BC has a significant natural gas resource expected to yield far in excess of 100

years’ needs, with the resource providing an opportunity to fuel and fund the Province in a debt-free

and sustainable manner that will provide for enhanced physical infrastructure, health, education and

social progress for several generations;

AND WHEREAS Norway, having a population and resources similar to the Province of BC, has managed

their resources to the extent that it is the second wealthiest country in the world:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA and UBCM request that the Province of BC continue an

examination of the factors that Norway employs in managing its resources for the betterment of its

citizens with the goal of adopting a similar approach in BC.

NCLGA Executive Recommendation: Endorse

UBCM Comments: UBCM members have not previously considered a resolution asking the Province to

continue an examination of the factors that Norway employs in managing its resources for the

betterment of its citizens with the goal of adopting a similar approach in BC.


ENVIRONMENT

B2: BROWNFIELDS DISTRICT OF VANDERHOOF

WHEREAS vacant sites or orphan properties known as “brownfields” are often on properties located

along transportation corridors and in downtown core areas, are eyesores to the community and have

caused real or suspected environmental contamination and negatively impact economic development of

that specific site and in the general area of that specific site;

AND WHEREAS the owners of these “brownfield” sites have already reaped the benefits and should

have an obligation to clean-up their own mess;

AND WHEREAS the UBCM membership endorsed resolution 2008-B33, which strongly urged the

provincial government to take immediate steps to implement the previously adopted resolutions 2007-

B29 and 2007-B70 that were passed at the 2007 Convention and no concrete action has taken place;

AND WHEREAS there has been no real progress to support rural communities continuing to face the

challenge of economic loss and unsightly premises in their downtown core due to real or suspected

environmental contamination on vacant lots;

AND WHEREAS provincial policies and regulations for remediation of brownfield sites are vague and not

strictly enforced:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM request that the Ministry of Environment be

authorized to legislate that owners of all contaminated brownfield sites, regardless of their hazard

10



rating, be remediated upon request from the local government and provide timely communication with

the local government regarding remediation progress.

Background: UBCM News Release - March 27, 2013

The Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resources is now accepting applications for funding available

under the Brownfield Renewal Funding Program. The program funds studies to determine if a site is

contaminated and to develop options for site restoration and redevelopment. It is available to private

property owners, including local governments, First Nations, non-profit agencies, and businesses.

Application forms are available online. The deadline for applications is May 17, 2013.

A brownfield is an industrial or commercial property that is abandoned or underused. Brownfield sites

are often contaminated and have redevelopment potential. Brownfield redevelopment helps to increase

commercial space, creating employment, improving community safety, retaining green space and

reducing pressures on undeveloped land.

For more information about this program, please contact:

Jeff Thom at [email protected] or 250-356-2244.


UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership endorsed a resolution in 2012 with the same wording,

submitted by the same sponsor (2012-B26).

In response to resolution 2012-B26, the Province noted that they have implemented policy that imposes

a time limit of one year for completion of site investigation of decommissioned sites. The time limit is

meant to help expedite the remediation process and determine the degree of risk of contamination at

these sites sooner. Provincial policy also includes the release of local government demolition permits so

that structures that become unsightly if left in place may be removed in a timely manner.

In addition, the Province recently announced a new $1.5 million brownfield renewal funding program,

which funds studies to determine whether a site is contaminated and to develop options for site

restoration and redevelopment. The program is available to private property owners, including local

governments, First Nations, non-profit agencies, and businesses.

NCLGA Membership:

CARRIED

B3: NOXIOUS WEEDS AND RANGE LANDS CARIBOO REGIONAL DISTRICT

WHEREAS noxious weeds pose a grave threat to the health of the range lands in BC and consequently to

their capacity to maintain the native flora and wildlife as well as their capacity to offer grazing to

domestic animals;

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AND WHEREAS neither the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resources, nor the regional districts

have the funding or the personnel necessary to adequately control these weeds; however, ranchers are

familiar with their ranges and monitor them continuously:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM lobby the Government of BC to do everything

possible to assist the ranching community in controlling noxious weeds, including but not limited to

simplifying provincial requirements, assisting with the cost of obtaining the pesticide applicator’s

certificate, and tailoring the course material and timing to agriculture.


UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership considered a similar resolution submitted by the same

sponsor in 2012. Resolution 2012-B127 asked the provincial government to enlist the aid of the ranching

community to control noxious weeds. The resolution was not endorsed.

For the 2013 resolution, the sponsor has amended the enactment clause to ask that the provincial

government do as much as possible to assist the ranching community in controlling noxious weeds

through a variety of measures.

UBCM members have consistently endorsed resolutions requesting provincial funding and assistance to

combat invasive plant species. In particular, the UBCM membership has requested that the provincial

government fully implement and fund the “Invasive Plant Strategy for British Columbia” developed by

the Fraser Basin Council (2004-B72; 2003-B81), as well as commit resources for combating invasive plant

species (2005-B25; 2007-B30; 2007-B31).


FINANCE

B4: PUBLIC SECTOR FINANCIAL STATEMENTS DISTRICT OF TAYLOR

WHEREAS the Public Sector Accounting Board is proposing changes to the financial statements that

incorporates inter-period equity, an accounting framework which would address challenges faced by

“non-government” public organizations but provides no useful value to local governments;

AND WHEREAS the proposed changes run contrary to providing clear and transparent government in a

form that can be readily understood by the public we serve, would be confusing for users and elected

municipal officials, and would result in an enormous administrative burden for local governments and

First Nations communities:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA support the UBCM working with the Public Sector

Accounting Board to ensure the framework for municipal financial reporting addresses the concerns of

local governments and is meaningful to the public interest we represent.

NCLGA Executive Recommendation: No Recommendation

Background Information:

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The Public Sector Accounting Board is suggesting changes to the financial statement framework which

would present the “financials” in the same format for each and every public body regardless of the type

of business they conduct.

Financial statements are often difficult enough for people to understand, so it is important to include

information in a format that is easily understood by the interested parties. When looking at the

statements for a municipality, the reader should be able to understand the finances in relation to the

function (business).

As an example, one change being considered is the “deferral of revenue”. If a municipality receives a

grant for roadwork, PSAB is suggesting that even though we may do the work in the same year we

receive the money, we will need to “book” it as though we are receiving the money over the lifetime of

the road (ie, 50 years). This change would make it appear as though we are receiving funds each year

for the next 50 years when in fact we are not. It would also falsely appear that we have money available

to spend (ie. reserves). The financial statements are not the place for this “guess work” and could be

seen as a manipulation tactic.

The deferral of revenue is only one of the many changes. This “one size fits all” reporting would require

municipalities to change the format of their financial statements, track the revenue received over the

life of the asset, create a multitude of reconciling reports, and create an enormous burden for the staff

of small municipalities and First Nations communities. Furthermore, a schedule or other report would

need to be created in order to explain to our audience what the true picture actually is.

It is our desire to be an open and transparent government. Providing confusing financial statements,

which provide no useful information to the public we serve, is simply not an effective use of tax payer’s

money. We suggest that PSAB let those who would benefit from these changes do so as a

recommended practice and not make it mandatory for local governments.

For more background information visit:

http://www.nclga.ca/Files/Taylor_PublicSectorAccounting.pdf

UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution on the topic of

financial statements that incorporate inter-period equity, although it has previously considered

resolutions relating to proposed Public Sector Accounting Board (PSAB) accounting standards including:

• 2012-B136 which called for a postponement of a PSAB standard relating to liability for

contaminated sites, which was endorsed by the membership; and

• 2005-B108 which sought exemption for local governments from PSAB accounting standards

relating to local government accounting for tangible capital assets, which was not endorsed by

the membership.

UBCM notes that the resolution appears to be referring to Consultation Paper 2 developed by PSAB’s

Conceptual Framework Task Force, for which comments were requested by January 31, 2013. According

to the Consultation Paper:

• concerns were raised by the senior government finance community, about the existing

conceptual framework, since “the application of standards based on concepts in the framework

were seen to be creating volatility in, and affecting the understandability of, reported results and

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making it difficult to provide actual-to-budget comparisons.” ;

• the consultation paper is the second document produced by the Task Force, and it has not been

approved by PSAB; and

• the input received from the two Task Force Consultation Papers will be considered in drafting a

statement of principles for public comment, planned for the final quarter of 2013.


B5: TAX REVENUE FOR THE PROTECTION OF ANIMALS

CARIBOO REGIONAL DISTRICT

WHEREAS animal abuse complaints and the protection of animals is handled by various non-profit

organizations throughout BC;

AND WHEREAS these societies are in constant need of financial support as they receive no provincial

government funding and are only able to operate due to the sustained efforts of volunteers and support

through independent donations:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA request Provincial legislation be implemented to levy an

additional tax of up to one half of one percent on all commercially produced animal food sales in British

Columbia to help cover the operational costs of non-profit animal protection organizations.


UBCM Comments: In 2009 due to time constraints, the UBCM membership referred a similar resolution,

B180, to the UBCM Executive. Resolution 2009-B180 called on the provincial government to levy an

additional tax on animal food sales, with the revenue from this tax to assist with the operational costs of

the BC SPCA. Upon consideration, the UBCM Executive did not endorse resolution 2009-B180.

In its comments on resolution 2009-B180, the UBCM Resolutions Committee observed that sales tax on a

specific product, such as gasoline, had theretofore been levied only in cases where the revenue raised

was directed to agencies that were accountable to the public. The Committee wondered whether it was

appropriate to levy a specific sales tax solely for the purpose of funding the programs of a non-

government organization, and whether such additional taxes on products would be acceptable to the

public.

The UBCM membership has endorsed related resolutions requesting provincial funding for the BC SPCA

(2011-B144, 2011-B145). In response to resolutions 2011-B144 and 2011-B145, the provincial

government suggested that its 2011 amendments to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act would

ensure a greater level of protection for animals. The Province indicated that it would not provide further

financial support to the BC SPCA, instead encouraging local governments to work with the BC SPCA to

“find workable solutions within the current resource envelope.”


B6: EVALUATION OF APPLICATIONS FOR INFRASTRUCTURE FUNDING

DISTRICT OF STEWART

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WHEREAS the need for planning grants are essential for small communities to determine deficiencies in

their infrastructure systems;

AND WHEREAS the costs of repairs to the infrastructure is significant and usually greater than most

remote rural communities can afford:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM lobby the Provincial Government to give

preferential treatment to implementation grant applications for projects identified as critical in a report

funded by a previous planning grant.


UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution specifically

requesting that preference be given to implementation grants for projects identified as critical in reports

funded by planning grants.

UBCM notes, however, that the preamble to the resolution clearly articulates the particular needs of BC’s

small and rural communities, and that the membership has consistently endorsed resolutions calling on

the provincial and federal governments to develop infrastructure funding programs which recognize

these needs (e.g. 2011-B31).

UBCM members have endorsed a range of resolutions proposing grant program reforms to support small

and rural local governments, including:

• establishing separate funding programs available only to small/rural communities (2007-B7);

• reducing or eliminating the local contribution requirements for small/rural or fiscally challenged

local governments (2012-B13); and

• streamlining application and/or reporting requirements (2007-A6).

In preparation for local-provincial-federal government discussions to develop a permanent Gas Tax

program and infrastructure funding programs to replace those under the Building Canada Plan, UBCM

surveyed its membership about specific proposals for reform. In that survey, 34% of respondents

favoured a lower percentage for the required local government contribution; 28% favoured segregating

a portion of funding, to be accessed only by small or rural local governments; 22% favoured eligibility for

a broader range of local government infrastructure for small or rural communities; and 16% made other

suggestions, such as eliminating application processes, or spreading completion requirements over a

longer timeframe.

Taking its direction from the survey responses, UBCM in its submission to Infrastructure Canada on a

proposed Long-Term Infrastructure Plan (LTIP) recommended:

• broadening the scope of eligible projects to include all local government infrastructure;

• streamlining program requirements to accommodate the broad range of local government

capacity; and

• provision of a mix of allocated and application based funding under all programs.

Further, the Federation of Canadian Municipalities in its LTIP submission to Infrastructure Canada

recommended reducing the population cut-off of the Building Canada Fund Small Communities

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Component, and streamlining the program to ensure that small, rural and remote communities can

access the funds efficiently and fairly.

NCLGA Membership: DEFEATED

HEALTH

B7: HEALTH SERVICE CONSULTATION DISTRICT OF STEWART

WHEREAS health service is a vital part of remote rural communities and local health providers know the

health needs and service requirements of their community better than outside sources;

AND WHEREAS all residents throughout BC deserve essential health service;

AND WHEREAS reductions in the current health services in their own community results in added costs

and stress to residents, especially the elderly and low income residents, particularly in winter conditions

when they must travel to seek health services that are often located a considerable distance away:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM lobby the Provincial Government to ensure that any

change in levels of health services to small remote communities are only considered by health

authorities in consultation with the local health providers, residents of the community and the local

government.


UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions calling for the

provincial government to provide opportunities for meaningful consultation with local governments on

health care issues and changes to health care services (2012-B93, 2007-B53, 2004-B29, 2003-A10, 2003-

B101, 2002-B61).

In response to resolution 2012-B93 the provincial government highlighted several initiatives already

underway to improve access to medical services in all health regions. Examples of these initiatives

include:

• increased enrolment in medical school, and regional distribution of medical education to

northern BC, the Okanagan, and Vancouver Island;

• the $10 million Rural Enhancement Emergency Fund; and

• provincial government participation on the Committee on Rural Issues - a collaborative initiative

with the BC Medical Association

UBCM would suggest an amendment to the resolution in order to frame the need for consultation as a

province-wide issue, one that is not limited to small, remote communities.


B8: MENINGITIS VACCINATIONS IN BC

DISTRICT OF KITIMAT

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WHEREAS Meningitis is a bacterial infection of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord that

can lead to severe complications, including brain damage and death. The risk of spreading meningitis

increases during adolescence and the disease progresses quickly; with serious risks occurring even when

there is early detection and treatment;

AND WHEREAS eight provinces and territories in Canada have implemented public meningococcal

conjugate immunization programs (MCV4) offering protection against four serotypes (A, C, W-135, and

Y); however, British Columbia does not have an MCV4 program:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA and UBCM urge the provincial Ministry of Health to

implement a province-wide MCV4 immunization program in all secondary schools by April 24, 2014,

World Meningitis Day.



Ministry of Health implement a province wide meningitis vaccination program in all secondary schools by

April 2014.


JUSTICE & PROTECTIVE SERVICES

B9: EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PLANS FOR DAMS IN BC

PEACE RIVER REGIONAL DISTRICT

WHEREAS British Columbia has many man-made dams on its rivers and streams throughout the

Province and these infrastructures create man-made hazards that the general public needs to be

informed of as well as of the potential risks and impacts they create;

AND WHEREAS while the current Dam Safety Regulation (BC Reg 163/2011) requires dam permit

holders to prepare and maintain emergency plans, there are no provisions to require dam permit

holders to inform and educate the general public on the hazards, risks and impacts associated with their

infrastructures before or during an emergency event:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM request the Province of British Columbia to enact

changes to legislation/regulation that would require dam permit holders to prepare all-encompassing

emergency management plans that include requirements for dam permit holders to conduct public

education, develop comprehensive public notification procedures and assist in the coordination of

emergency response and recovery efforts to ensure the safety of the public.

Background:

In BC the statutory obligations for dam owners for emergency planning are fairly low; the owner of a

dam that has a classification of significant, high, very high or extreme (based on dam failure

consequences) must prepare an emergency preparedness plan that describes the action to be taken in

the event of an emergency at the dam. The emergency plan is quite basic in that it only includes the

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names of contact persons, access routes and who should be notified downstream of the dam. In the

event of an emergency, the dam owner must notify those who are in immediate danger and undertake

any other hazard response activity required by a dam safety officer or engineer, or the comptroller or

regional water manager.

For example, in the case of an emergency at the Peace Canyon or WAC Bennett Dam on the Peace River,

BC Hydro as the dam owner only notifies the potentially affected local government of the emergency

and does not notify the residents or businesses that could be impacted. As a matter of preparedness

these residents and businesses are not made aware by the dam owner of the hazard, risk or potential

impact that these man-made structures hold. Dam owners have the expertise to provide proper public

education on the hazard they have created, develop comprehensive public notification procedures and

assist in the coordination of emergency response and recovery efforts to ensure the safety of the public.

NCLGA Executive Recommendation: Endorse with the following Amendment

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM request the Province of British Columbia to enact

changes to legislation/regulation that would require dam permit holders to prepare all-encompassing

emergency management plans to ensure the safety of the public.

UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution calling on the

provincial government to require dam permit holders to prepare all-encompassing emergency plans, and

require the permit holders to conduct public education, develop comprehensive public notification

procedures and assist in the coordination of emergency response and recovery efforts as part of the

permit holders’ emergency management plans.

NCLGA Membership:

Karen Goodings, Peace River Regional District; Objection to amendment

MOTION THAT the Floor accept Resolution B9: EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PLANS FOR DAMS IN BC as

amended.


SECONDED by Shaely Wilbur, City of Dawson Creek

DEFEATED

MOTION THAT the Floor accept the original Resolution B9: EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PLANS FOR

DAMS IN BC.

MOVED by Karen Goodings, Peace River Regional District

SECONDED by Mitch Campsall, District of 100 Mile House

CARRIED

B10: EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION SKEENA QUEEN CHARLOTTE RD

WHEREAS the system of mass emergency & hazard notification in the Province of BC is slow and

ineffective, as demonstrated by Emergency Management BC’s slow notification response times for two

recent Tsunami Warnings;

AND WHEREAS fast and wide reaching emergency & hazard notification systems are proven to save

lives, while slow and ineffective ones inevitably cost lives;

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AND WHEREAS some communities have access to effective hazard & emergency mass notification

systems, while others don’t;

AND WHEREAS the technology & financial capacity needed to establish a world class system of

emergency & hazard notification province-wide are available:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the NCLGA, UBCM and FCM urge the Provincial and Federal

Governments to establish a world class emergency and hazard mass notification system, including the

following:

1. The establishment of a province-wide, all-hazard radio system by expanding Weatheradio

Canada coverage, with Specific Area Message Encoding (SAME) protocols, to 100% of the

populated areas in British Columbia by the end of 2014.

2. The establishment of a federal/provincial/local government cost-shared funding program with

the purpose of ensuring that all of the communities in BC are able to establish mass notification

systems that meet local needs.



federal and provincial governments upgrade emergency response technology so that they are able to

notify local governments about earthquakes and tsunami in a more timely fashion. Nor have UBCM

members considered a resolution calling on the federal and provincial governments to provide funding to

assist local government in developing an emergency and hazard mass notification system to notify local

residents.


B11: PROLIFIC OFFENDERS CITY OF WILLIAMS LAKE

WHEREAS Williams Lake experiences a high number of prolific offenders that are responsible for the

majority of crime and for the high rates of crime in our community;

AND WHEREAS the criminal justice system does not allow judges to consider previous convictions in

making judgments for an individual charge which results in multiple incidents of crime perpetrated by

the same offender being treated as separate cases:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM lobby the Federal and Provincial Ministers of Justice

to make changes to allow consideration of the prolific nature of offenders during prosecution.

NCLGA Executive Recommendation: Not Endorse

UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting

changes to the court system to allow consideration of the prolific nature of offenders during prosecution.

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2nd

BUSINESS SESSION ADJOURNED AT 2:59 pm, May 2, 2013

3rd


LEGISLATIVE B12: COMMUNITY CHARTER / LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT AMENDMENT

CITY OF PRINCE RUPERT

WHEREAS municipalities become the owners of properties arising through the mandatory provisions of

Community Charter/Local Government Act legislation that regulates Municipal Property Tax Sales;

AND WHEREAS the municipal title to the property can then be disputed in a court of law or other

tribunal;

AND WHEREAS the property title disputes prevent municipalities from transferring title to another

purchaser and thereby hinders the sale of the property;

AND WHEREAS the holding costs, the legal costs, as well as opportunity costs while title is resolved can

be extremely expensive and burdensome to a municipality:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM respectively request that the Province amend the

Community Charter and Local Government Act so that a municipality’s clear title to a property as a result

of the operation of the Municipal Tax Sale Process cannot be disputed in a court of law or other tribunal.


UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting

legislative amendments to eliminate the right of a former owner of a tax sale property to dispute the sale

in court.

However, UBCM members have consistently endorsed resolutions calling for reform to the tax sale

process, including eliminating the tax sale auction (2005-B17), providing authority for a municipality to

set aside a tax sale for reasons of manifest error (2005-B86), shortening the redemption period (2000-B2)

and increasing penalties and interest during the redemption period (1984-A8).

UBCM would observe that while all of these resolutions are aimed at finding efficiencies in the tax sale

process, none appear to limit the ability of the former owner of the property to dispute the process in

court. Further, UBCM would question whether denying access to the courts is appropriate in the

circumstances, given the potential significance of the loss of the property to the former owner.


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B13: HERITAGE WEEK CARIBOO REGIONAL DISTRICT

WHEREAS BC Heritage Week is held during the third week of February when weather conditions are

generally poor;

AND WHEREAS a later date would provide weather conditions more conducive to the showcasing of

heritage sites, and to the tourism opportunities associated with heritage:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA and UBCM request that the Province of BC move the date

of BC Heritage Week to later in the year.


UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting that

the provincial government change the dates of BC Heritage Week so that it takes place later in the year.


B14: COMPULSORY LABELING OF GMO FOOD CITY OF QUESNEL

CITY OF WILLIAMS LAKE

WHEREAS the long term health effects of consuming genetically modified organisms in food products is

uncertain and the requirements of Health Canada and the Canadian Food Inspection agency limit

labeling to known health and safety risks which would be mitigated by labeling;

AND WHEREAS the safety and security of food is critical to a healthy community and public polls

indicate that Canadians want to see labels identifying genetically modified organisms in food products;

AND WHEREAS consumers have a fundamental right to know how their food is produced:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA and UBCM lobby the Provincial and Federal Governments

to enact legislation which would require consumer labeling of products sold in British Columbia where

there are genetically modified organisms in those food products.


Background Information: http://www.nclga.ca/Files/GMO_Background1.pdf

UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership considered but did not endorse resolution 2009-B151, which

asked that the provincial government require labelling of all food products containing genetically

modified organisms (GMOs) in British Columbia.

The membership did, however, endorse resolution 2012-B126 which asked that the provincial

government legislate the prohibition of importing, exporting, and the domestic production of fruit and

plant material containing genetically engineered (GE) DNA constructs and to declare through legislation

that BC is a GE Free province in respect to all tree fruit products.

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B15: RESTRICTIONS ON BEAR SPRAY AND MACHETES CITY OF WILLIAMS LAKE

WHEREAS bear spray and machetes are used as the weapons of choice by youth in our community to

commit violent crimes;

AND WHEREAS these items are widely available for purchase in retail outlets in our community:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM lobby the Provincial Government to enact

legislation which restricts sale of and access to bear spray and machetes.

NCLGA Executive Recommendation: Not Endorse

UBCM Comments: UBCM members have not previously considered a resolution that requested

provincial legislation to restrict the sale of and access to bear spray and machetes.

NCLGA Membership: DEFEATED

SOCIAL ISSUES

B16: INCREASE IN SOCIAL ASSISTANCE RATES CITY OF PRINCE RUPERT

WHEREAS the amount of support given to individuals on disability, welfare, and/or old age security is

inadequate to support people’s basic human needs in terms of adequate shelter, clothing, food, and

other basic necessities, based on today’s cost of living;

AND WHEREAS this forces individuals, who are obliged by circumstance to utilize these programs, to live

in a manner that violates basic human rights and dignity:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM petition the Provincial and Federal Governments to

increase the basic support allowance given to these individuals to a level that reflects the true cost of

living in our country.


UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership endorsed resolution 2011-B175 calling on the provincial

government to increase current assistance rates and implement a program to adjust those rates annually

based on the BC Average Annual Consumer Price Index.

In response to this resolution, the Province indicated that it would not consider increases to income

assistance and disability assistance. However, the provincial government did advise that it would be

working with UBCM on local poverty reduction strategies in seven BC communities.

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B17: STANDARDIZATION OF SOCIAL ASSISTANCE RATES CITY OF PRINCE RUPERT

WHEREAS married couples receive less support on disability, welfare, and/or old age security than they

would if they were single individuals, thereby decreasing their ability to live with security and dignity, as

protected under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms;

AND WHEREAS this practice is discriminatory, and therefore violates the guarantee of equality set out in

the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM petition the Provincial and Federal Governments to

award equal financial support to individuals on disability, welfare and/or old age security regardless of

their marital status.



provincial and federal governments to award equal financial support to individuals on disability, welfare

and/or old age security regardless of their marital status.

However, members have endorsed resolutions that requested an increase in assistance rates for adults

with disabilities to match the level of assistance provided to seniors (2011-B75; 2006-B171).


TRANSPORTATION & COMMUNICATION

B18: ALL TERRAIN VEHICLE OPERATION ON PUBLIC ROADS DISTRICT OF WELLS

WHEREAS small rural communities could benefit economically as service centres for the growing

recreational sport of All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) touring;

AND WHEREAS legislation in British Columbia currently prohibits the operation of All Terrain Vehicles on

highways, roads and streets for recreational purposes:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA and UBCM lobby the Provincial Government to amend

current legislation to permit Local Governments to regulate the operation of ATV’s on municipal roads

and streets within their boundaries.

Background:

Provincial legislation currently provides local governments with the power to regulate the use of

snowmobiles on municipal streets. Some municipalities such as the District of Wells take advantage of

this empowerment to promote our community as a winter tourism destination by providing snowmobile

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enthusiasts not only with an excellent winter trail system, but also with the ability to directly access

services in our town such as accommodation, restaurants and fuel.

The resolution being proposed is to encourage the Provincial Government to extend this same

successful municipal empowerment to include the regulation of recreational All-Terrain Vehicles on

municipal streets. Just as with snowmobiles, each Local Government could have the authority, by bylaw,

to determine how, where and when ATV on-street use could be permitted within their boundaries.

Obviously this may not be suitable for many urban areas and in such situations local governments need

not enact such bylaws. However for rural communities with a strong economic dependence on

recreational tourism such legislation could provide an additional tool with which to promote their

communities and sustain their businesses. For this reason we ask your support for this resolution.


UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions requesting that the

Province enact legislation and regulations with respect to off-road vehicles (ORVs) and all-terrain

vehicles (ATVs) (2011-B10, 2009-A6, 2007-B20, 2005-B10, 2002-B9, 1999-LR4, 1996-B16, 1993-B36).

Since ORV riders often cross boundaries from one local government to another, UBCM members have

sought a province-wide approach for regulating and licensing their use to ensure consistency.

In November 2009, the Province announced its intent to develop a new framework for managing ORVs

and ATVs. UBCM is presently represented on a Joint Advisory Group and a local government working

group has also been established to provide feedback and comment to the provincial government on

specific local government interests as the new framework is developed. The framework is being

implemented in phases and the advisory groups continue to provide feedback on aspects including

highway crossings, compliance and enforcement, safety, as well as licensing and registration.


B19: HIGHWAY 16 UPGRADES AND IMPROVEMENTS DISTRICT OF PORT EDWARD

DISTRICT OF VANDERHOOF

WHEREAS the Trans Canada Highway 16 is the only east-west highway connecting communities in

Northern BC and is a critical link for the economic development of the region and province, especially

providing access to the Asia-Pacific;

AND WHEREAS there is a need to facilitate the safe and efficient traffic flow on the highway through

areas that are in dire need of improvements, such as Car Wash Rock, reducing “bottle-necks”, more

“three laning”, and safer level rail crossings, etc.:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA and UBCM call upon the Federal and Provincial

Governments to allocate the necessary funds and implement a comprehensive program to make

improvements on the Trans Canada Hwy 16 within BC.

Background:

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An article published in the Prince Rupert Northern View newspaper on January 30, 2013 headline reads:

“Prince Rupert’s Hearing Clinic Recalled to Terrace” with a subheading of “Connect Hearing cites

highway safety for technician’s absence”.

Prince Rupert seniors are fighting to have services restored for their hearing aid maintenance.

Last winter Connect Hearing Clinics decided its regular visits to Prince Rupert from Terrace would be

terminated in the interest of their technician’s safety. A letter sent out to customers put the blame on

“treacherous” winter driving conditions between the two cities.

*The remainder of the article is posted on the NCLGA website:

http://www.nclga.ca/Files/PortEdward_Hwy16_BackGround.pdf


UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership considered but did not endorse resolution 2011-B162, which

called on the provincial and federal governments to “three-lane” Highway 16 within BC. Similarly,

members considered but did not endorse resolution 2011-B161, which requested that the provincial

government “four-lane” Highway 97 North.

However, the UBCM membership has consistently endorsed more general resolutions in support of

highway upgrades and improved highway safety throughout BC (2009-B16, 2008-B110, 2007-B168,

2006-B139, 2004-B54, 2003-B11, 2001-B20, 2000-B63, 1999-B46, 1999-B47, 1998-A1, 1998-B54, 1997-

B8, 1996-B89, 1996-B93, 1993-B45, 1992-B107).

UBCM would suggest that as written, the resolution focuses on a specific area of the province, and it

would therefore be more appropriate for NCLGA, rather than UBCM, to undertake advocacy regarding

this issue.


B20: REVIEW OF BC ROAD MAINTENANCE STANDARDS KITIMAT-STIKINE REGIONAL DISTRICT

WHEREAS northern BC residents consistently declare road maintenance fails to meet travellers’

requirements and that standards have deteriorated since privatization of road maintenance;

AND WHEREAS road maintenance contractors consistently meet their contractual obligations and

provide service according to provincial maintenance standards:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the NCLGA and UBCM call upon the Minister of Transportation and

Infrastructure to revise the provincial standards for road maintenance for future road maintenance

contracts, to meet public safety needs.

NCLGA Executive Recommendation: Merge Resolutions B20 and B21 into one resolution.

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UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions calling on the provincial

government to review and improve highway maintenance standards (2009-B161, 2008-B113, 2007-B97,

2005-B80, 2003-A9, 2001-B14, 2000-B11). ~See also resolution B21.


B21: HIGHWAY 16 WINTER MAINTENANCE CLASSIFICATION

KITIMAT-STIKINE REGIONAL DISTRICT

WHEREAS the provincial government employs a roads classification system to determine the level of

winter maintenance;

AND WHEREAS Highway 16 is critically important to the economy of the region, province and nation,

and requires the highest standards of maintenance:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the North Central Local Government Association write the Minister

of Transportation and Infrastructure insisting on reclassification of Highway 16 from Class “B” to Class

“A”. No recommendation

NCLGA Executive Recommendation:


provincial government re-classify Highway 16 as Class “A” rather than Class “B” for the purpose of winter

maintenance.

However, UBCM members have endorsed more general resolutions calling on the provincial government,

in consultation with local government, to review the road maintenance classification system as well as

the standards for winter maintenance of highways (2005-B80, 2001-B14).

UBCM would suggest that as written, the resolution focuses on a specific area of the province, and it

would therefore be more appropriate for NCLGA, rather than UBCM, to undertake advocacy regarding

this issue. ~See also resolution B20.


B22: PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION DISTRICT OF VANDERHOOF

WHEREAS many rural communities in Northern British Columbia do not have any public transit or

adequate taxi service;

AND WHEREAS the absence of public transportation and suitable taxi service in these rural communities

places them at a distinct disadvantage as their citizens have no opportunity to use public transportation

within or between communities:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM request that the Province of BC implement a public

transportation strategy and establish solutions leading to the sustainability of both public transit and

taxis in all rural communities.

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NCLGA Executive Recommendation: Endorse with the following Amendment

Suggested Amendment:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM request that the Province of BC implement a public

transportation strategy and establish sustainable solutions.

UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership endorsed resolution 2012-B115, which called on the

provincial government to develop a transportation strategy for sustainable public transit and taxis in

rural communities.

In response to resolution 2012-B115 the provincial government suggested that local issues relating to

public transit and taxis in rural communities would be better addressed by local governments and service

providers. The Province cited existing agreements between BC Transit and 58 local government partners

for the delivery of transit services, cost shared between BC Transit and local government.

The provincial government indicated that communities wishing to establish transit service could discuss

preliminary options with BC Transit, or request a formal feasibility study; and that in communities with a

demand for taxi or other commercial passenger transportation services, a service provider could apply to

the Registrar of Passenger Transportation for a license to deliver those services:

http://www.th.gov.bc.ca/rpt/index.htm

NCLGA Membership:

The Floor votes to accept the amendment to Resolution B22: PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION.

[2 opposed] CARRIED

The Floor votes to accept the original Resolution B22: PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION, as amended.

CARRIED

B23: TELEPHONE & INTERNET SERVICE DURING AN EMERGENCY DISTRICT OF STEWART

WHEREAS during a catastrophic event such as a tsunami, earthquake, or police emergency,

communication with emergency response organizations are critically important to public safety;

AND WHEREAS disruptions in land line telephone and internet services will cut many remote rural and

coastal communities off from Emergency Response Management Systems:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM lobby the Provincial Government to ensure the

necessary cell phone infrastructure is in place in order to provide timely emergency response.



provincial government to ensure the availability and function of cellular telephone infrastructure to

support emergency response communications.

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However, UBCM members have consistently endorsed resolutions calling on the provincial and federal

governments to ensure the availability of cellular telephone coverage to all communities (2012-B45,

2011-B72, 2010-B50, 2009-B57, 2008-B54, 2006-B54, 2005-B5, 2004-B9, 2003-B35, 2002-B23).


B24: EXPANSION OF BROADBAND SERVICES KITIMAT-STIKINE REGIONAL DISTRICT

WHEREAS the delivery of health and education services in northern remote communities is impaired by

the lack of connectivity;

AND WHEREAS specifically, services such as “tele-health” and distance education are vital, cost-efficient

services significantly contributing to northern development:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the North Central Local Government Association and UBCM write to

the federal Minister of Industry and BC Minister of Citizens’ Services and Open Government seeking a

renewed and highest priority commitment to the expansion of broadband technology in northern British

Columbia.


UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions calling on the provincial

and federal governments to ensure the availability of broadband internet service for all communities in

BC (2011-B72, 2009-B57, 2006-B54, 2003-B35, 2002-B23).

In response to resolution 2011-B72, the provincial government highlighted a July 2011 agreement

between the Province and TELUS, which in part aimed to improve internet connections to designated

rural and remote communities by increasing bandwidth up to ten times the current speed. The Province

also indicated that it was working with the private sector and other orders of government to provide

every BC community with high-speed internet service within the next 10 years.


LATE & EMERGING RESOLUTIONS

LR1: PROTECTION OF SMALL COMMUNITY GRANTS DISTRICT OF CHETWYND

WHEREAS local governments provide important and vital services to the residents of British Columbia;

AND WHEREAS small communities have come to rely on Provincial revenues, in the form of

‘Unconditional’ or ‘Small Community Protection’ grants (also known as ‘Community Strategic

Investment’ grants), in order to support their ability to provide such services to the residents of this

Province;

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AND WHEREAS the Government of Canada has just recently recognized the true importance and value

of strategic, predictable and long term investments in local government infrastructure to Canada:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the North Central Local Government Association petition the UBCM,

to encourage the Government of British Columbia to commit to ensuring stable, predictable and

sustainable funding for small communities in British Columbia to ensure adequate revenue resources for

these communities to allow them to continue to provide essential infrastructure and local government

services to the residents and businesses of their respective communities and to the Province of British

Columbia as a whole.

Background: FCM Update – April 12, 2013

Budget 2013 and Rural Infrastructure

The 2013-14 federal budget tabled in Parliament in Ottawa on March 21, 2013, delivers significant gains

for rural municipalities, and fulfills many of the objectives of FCM’s infrastructure advocacy campaign.

I would like to thank and congratulate all members of the Rural Forum and FCM staff for developing and

participating in such a focused and successful campaign. We have proven that when we come together,

listen to each other and set common goals, we can have tremendous influence.

Let’s take stock of how far we’ve come.

There’s no denying the federal government has provided municipalities with an unprecedented

commitment through the indexing of the permanent Gas Tax Fund, which guarantees its value over

time, and the 10-year funding and program framework for the new Building Canada Fund.

Just as important, the budget entrenches the principle of long-term sustainable infrastructure funding.

For rural municipalities, this long-term funding commitment will help with capital planning and make it

easier to project needs and priorities over the longer term.

While the details of the infrastructure funding programs, including rural-specific components in the

Building Canada Fund, remain to be determined, the government has shown it is committed to

continuing its partnership with the municipal sector. FCM will be consulted in the program design phase

and we will work to ensure the needs of small, rural and northern communities are addressed, including

through a streamlining of the Small Communities Component.

For more information on the federal budget, please consult FCM’s detailed analysis of Budget 2013 and

Rural Infrastructure. For further information, please contact Daniel Rubinstein, Policy Analyst, 613-907-

6294.

Sincerely,

David Marit

Chair, FCM Rural Forum

29



Councillor, Rural Municipality of Willow Bunch, Saskatchewan


Mike Frazier, Village of McBride, wrapped up the Resolution Debate by noting that a couple of

Resolutions were not included with the 2013 NCLGA Resolutions as they were to be forwarded directly

to UBCM:

• Smoke detectors; Insurance companies requiring sign off on a working detector prior to insuring a

home.

• School bus funding – funding formula changed, adversely affected rural communities and emerging

potential of an additional charge to families for student bussing.

Mike Frazier, Village of McBride extends a thank you to Walt Cobb, Karen Marshall and Rhya Hartley.

9. Presentation of Gold Star Resolution Awards

• Honourable Mention(s):

• District of Stewart for B23: TELEPHONE & INTERNET SERVICE DURING AN

EMERGENCY

• Peace River Regional District for B1: MANAGEMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES

• Gold Star Winner:

• Kitimat-Stikine Regional District for B24: EXPANSION OF BROADBAND SERVICES

3rd

BUSINESS SESSION ADJOURNED AT 3:49 pm, May 2, 2013

30



4th


10. Motion to Destroy Ballots

MOVED by Kim Eglinski, Northern Rockies Regional Municipality

SECONDED by Karen Goodings, Peace River Regional District

THAT the ballots be destroyed.

CARRIED

11. Announcement of New NCLGA Executive

Outgoing President, Mitch Campsall, announced the 2013-2014 NCLGA Executive at

4:20pm:

• President Bruce Christensen, Councillor, City of Fort St. John

• 1st

VP Brian Frenkel, Councillor, District of Vanderhoof

• 2nd

VP Bruce Bidgood, Councillor, City of Terrace

• Mayor Mitch Campsall, District of 100 Mile house returns as Past President

• Councillor Lynne Christiansen, Kitimat-Stikine Regional Representative

• Regional Councillor, Kim Eglinski, Northern Rockies Regional Representative

• Mayor Mike Frazier, Fraser-Fort George Regional Representative

• Councillor Spence Henderson, District of 100 Mile House, Director-at-Large

• Mayor Dave MacDonald, Skeena Queen-Charlotte Regional Representative

• Councillor Laurey-Anne Roodenburg, City of Quesnel, Director-at-Large

• Director Jerrilyn Schembri, Peace River Regional Representative

• Director Joan Sorley, Cariboo Regional Representative

• Mayor Luke Strimbold, Bulkley Nechako Regional Representative

• Councillor Dave Wilbur, City of Prince George, Director-at-Large

12. Address by New President

NCLGA President Bruce Christensen said, "I am honoured that the NCLGA members have put

their trust in me to lead the Association for the coming year. I have a deep appreciation of the

work that has gone on before, and I look forward to working with other levels of Government,

community partners and organizations on behalf of our members.”

13. Address by 2014 Host Community – City of Fort St. John

Councillor Bruce Christensen, City of Fort St. John invited the assembly to attend the

2014 NCLGA Conference being held in Fort St. John and hosted by the City of Quesnel.

The 4th

Business Session Closed at 5:00pm, May 3, 2012.

NEXT CONVENTION: The 59th

Annual NCLGA Convention will be hosted by the “Energetic City”

of Fort St. John on May 7th – 9th

, 2014.

31

Financial Statements of

NORTH CENTRAL LOCALGOVERNMENTASSOCIATION

Year ended March 31, 2014(Unaudited - see Notice to Reader)

32

KPMG LLP Telephone (250) 563-7151Chartered Accountants Fax (250) 563-5693177 Victoria Street, Suite 400 Internet www.kpmg.caPrince George BC V2L 5R8Canada

NOTICE TO READER

On the basis of information provided by management, we have compiled the statement of financialposition of North Central Local Government Association as at March 31, 2014 and the statement ofoperations and surplus for the year then ended. We have not performed an audit or a reviewengagement in respect of these financial statements and, accordingly, we express no assurancethereon. Readers are cautioned that these financial statements may not be appropriate for theirpurposes.

KPMG LLP

Chartered Accountants

April 25, 2014

Prince George, Canada

KPMG LLP is a Canadian limited liability partnership and a member firm of the KPMGnetwork of independent member firms affiliated with KPMG International Cooperative(“KPMG International”), a Swiss entity. KPMG Canada provides services to KPMG LLP.

33

NORTH CENTRAL LOCAL GOVERNMENTASSOCIATIONStatement of Financial Position

March 31, 2014, with comparative information for 2013(Unaudited - see Notice to Reader)

2014 2013

Assets

Current assets:Cash $ 269,007 $ 234,981Investments and marketable securities 108,717 191,571Prepaid expenses 259 34,669

377,983 461,221

Capital assets at cost:Office furniture and equipment 21,988 21,988Computer equipment 10,939 10,939Computer software 974 974

33,901 33,901Less accumulated amortization 29,126 27,858

4,775 6,043

$ 382,758 $ 467,264

Liabilities and Surplus Equity

Current liabilities:Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ 1,567 $ 4,527Deferred revenue 143,166 223,213

144,733 227,740

Surplus 238,025 239,524

$ 382,758 $ 467,264

See accompanying note to financial statements.

34

NORTH CENTRAL LOCAL GOVERNMENTASSOCIATIONStatement of Operations and Surplus

Year ended March 31, 2014, with comparative information for 2013(Unaudited - see Notice to Reader)

2014 2013

Revenues:Membership fees $ 159,936 $ 159,936Interest and miscellaneous 155,811 108,159

315,747 268,095Expenditures:

Amortization 1,268 1,616Annual general meeting 119,860 58,154Bank charges 81 164Bookkeeping 3,342 3,267Contractors remuneration 1,050 13,442Executive meetings and travel 53,824 43,404Legal and accounting 966 1,027Office supplies and miscellaneous 3,190 8,650Professional development 265 550Rent 9,860 9,860Telephone 2,024 2,075Wages 116,653 97,512Website development 4,863 605

317,246 240,326

Excess (deficiency) of revenues over (under) expenditures (1,499) 27,769

Surplus, beginning of year 239,524 211,755 Surplus, end of year $ 238,025 $ 239,524

Note

The recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure principles in these financial statementsmay not be in accordance with the requirements of any of the financial reporting frameworks in theCPA Canada Handbook – Accounting.

35

Revenue:

Membership Dues $159,936.00

AGM 2014 Revenue $17,000.00

Event Revenue $9,000.00

Interest Revenue $2,400.00

Miscellaneous Revenue

NDIT Intern Sponsorship $17,500.00

TOTAL REVENUE $205,836.00 $205,836.00

Administrative Expenses:

Accounting & Legal $1,300.00

AGM Expense $6,000.00

Bookkeeping $3,405.00

Courier & Postage $575.00

Interest & Bank Charges $240.00

Office Expense $970.00

Misc & Discretionary $600.00

Print Materials $500.00

Web Site $1,625.00

Professional Development

Professional Training Expense

Office Equipment Upgrades $650.00

Equipment Maintenance $350.00

Rent $9,867.00

North Central Local Government Association

Proposed Budget 2014-2015Presented by Finance Chair Brian Frenkel

Rent $9,867.00

Telephone $3,700.00

Exec Meetings - In Person $33,300.00

Travel - Executive/ Staff - Other $1,500.00

UBCM $8,500.00

Priorities & Planning Activities $15,000.00

Total Administrative Expenses $88,082.00 $88,082.00

Wages & Benefits:

Wages $100,567.38

EI Expense $2,644.92

CPP Expense $4,978.09

WCB Expense $995.62

Benefits $8,568.00

Total Wages & Benefits $117,754.00 $117,754.00

TOTAL EXPENSE $205,836.00 $205,836.00

NET SURPLUS (DEFICIT) (0) (0)

36

Nominations Committee Report

Presented by: NCLGA Past President – Mitch Campsall Mayor, 100 Mile House The Nominations Committee is pleased to announce that the individuals listed in this report have been duly nominated for the 2014-2015 NCLGA Executive. At this time we would like to thank all of the nominees who have put their name forward.

If there is more than one nomination received for any table officer position, there will be an election for that position. Otherwise positions will be filled by acclamation. The process for the election is as follows, two ballots will be held:

The first ballot will be for:

� President, � First Vice-President � Second Vice-President

Any unsuccessful candidate from the first ballot may choose to put their name forward for the second ballot, which will be for the three Director at Large positions. At the 2011 Convention our bylaws were updated with regard to the Regional Representative Directors. Under the revised bylaw a Regional Representative Director shall be appointed by each of the Regional District members to the NCLGA Executive for a one-year term. The names of these appointees are listed after the nominees in this report. For the information of the membership we have included a copy of the terms of reference for positions on the Executive in this report as “Appendix A”. I wish all candidates good luck.

Mitch Campsall Chair - Nominations Committee

37

Nominees for NCLGA Executive 2014-2015

Nomination for President: Nominee: Brian Frenkel Councillor – District of Vanderhoof

Brian Frenkel was born and raised in Prince George and in 1983 moved to

Vanderhoof and a year later was married to his wife, Nadine. Brian and

Nadine have a daughter and son, both of whom were raised in Vanderhoof.

Brian is a business owner of 25 years and has worked in the Forest and

Environmental consulting sector for over 29 years.

Brian has been a Vanderhoof Councillor for 11 years and has represented

the North on several provincial committees such as BC Healthy Living, the

Municipal Insurance Board of BC and the Provincial Spirit of BC Steering

Committee.

Previously, Brian served as a director at large for NCLGA and has been working diligently to

make his community and the north a viable, economic focal point for development and a healthy

and safe place to live. He recognizes the challenges that the northern part of the Province

faces; with attracting and retaining a skilled labour force, an ever changing resource sector,

increased demands on local governments and a lack of infrastructure to allow the expansion of

communities.

Brian views Northern BC as the land of opportunity for the next couple of decades not only for

resources such as mining, forestry, energy, oil and gas but as a major player in supplying

services to all these sectors.

38

Nomination for 1st Vice President: Nominee: Dr. Bruce A. Bidgood Chair – Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine

Councillor – City of Terrace

Bruce was elected to Terrace City Council in 2008 and also serves as the Chair of the Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine and the Vice-Chair of the Northwest Regional Hospital District and the Second Vice-President of the North Central Local Government Association. He was elected to represent the City and Region as the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) delegate to the Department of Fisheries and Oceans and as a Standing Committee member of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities.

Bruce began his political career as a research consultant to municipal

and provincial governments in the late 1980’s. He became an invited expert for the Ontario

government in the 1990’s providing consultation on issues such as the Budget, Charlottetown

Accord, Social Charter of Rights and Community Planning.

Dr. Bruce Bidgood (Bruce) is an Associate Professor in the School of Social Work, University of

Northern British Columbia (UNBC). He has held an appointment as an Adjunct Professor in the

School of Business and Economics, Nipissing University and a graduate supervisor for the

Masters in Leadership program of Royal Rhodes University and the Masters of Social Work at

Dalhousie University. Dr. Bidgood has produced more than one hundred scholarly/professional

contributions and has been the principal investigator on several national and provincial research

grants.

Bruce is an active community volunteer as a Big Brother, volunteer Board member, educational consultant and invited speaker to many groups. He has two daughters, Marisa (27) and Sinead (22) who are both attending post-secondary institutions.

Favourite Quote; “Chance Favours Only the Prepared Mind.”

39

Nomination for 2nd Vice President: Nominee: Laurey-Anne Roodenburg Councillor – City of Quesnel

Laurey-Anne Roodenburg has been a resident of Quesnel since 2003,

when she and her family moved from Ontario. She is an active member

of the Quesnel Rotary, Farmed, Quesnel Friends of the Museum, Shiraoi

Twinning Society and the Quesnel Senior Center.

First elected in 2008, Laurey-Anne has served on the NCLGA executive

board for the past three years.

Her portfolio for city council includes the following:

• Community Safety and Protective Services

• Labour relations and Audit committee

• Executive committee

• Chair of the Canada Day working committee

• Chair of the North Cariboo Parks and Recreation Committee

• Cariboo Regional District—Alternate Director

• Alternate for the Cariboo Chilcoltin Beetle Action Coalition

Laurey-Anne's active participation on the NCLGA board includes sitting on the NCLGA

Convention committee, the Advocacy Committee and as the MIA alternate.

The North continues to be an important piece to the success of British Columbia, and as a valid

partner and voice, NCLGA has an important role to play in making sure that all of our regional

needs and concerns are addressed. The strength of this organization lies in its' membership.

As 2nd Vice President, Councillor Roodenburg's ability to work with all levels of government is

an asset that will help move the North forward to a stronger and more prosperous future.

Councillor Roodenburg looks forward to your support and is available to answer any questions

you might have.

40

Nomination for 2nd Vice President: Nominee: Jerrilyn Schembri Director, Peace River Regional District

There is nothing that prepares you for receiving a call from your child telling you she’s been diagnosed with cancer. But that’s the call I received from my daughter, who is the mother of three, just under 18 months ago. Then, an urgent phone message 6 months later from the hospital that my father had fallen and hit his head, a bleeding brain the doctors informed me and an uncertain rather hopeless prognosis.

Life is easy when you are dealt all good cards but it is when you get a bad hand that you learn about who you are, what is truly important and the importance of family and community. I am the rural director for Electoral Area E on the Peace River Regional District board, and a former councillor for the District of Tumbler Ridge. I sit on numerous boards, as all of us who are involved in public service seem to do, but it is the life lessons learned rather than the jobs we hold, that make each of us who we are today. The last 18 months have taught me some essential lessons that inform both my personal life and my public service.

1. Always be optimistic. You all know the things we face while involved in local government...face them with a smile, be positive and don't give up. You got involved in serving the public for a reason...stay true to that and work hard at what you are doing.

2. Play is important .....it rejuvenates us but also allows us to contemplate the improbable/impossible like flying to Mars...it lays the groundwork for innovation and possibility.

3. Try something new! Make mistakes. When you are making mistakes you are trying new things, learning new things, living, pushing yourself and changing your world. And then don’t be afraid to admit those mistakes. We’ve all seen what happens when politicians try and deny the mistakes they make. You’re only human, and if you deal with people on that level, on the level of our shared humanity, you’ll be surprised how generous and forgiving most people really are.

4. Appreciate the opportunity you have been entrusted with, to serve people. So, here I am trying something new. I am thankful to all of you for giving me the opportunity to work with Maxine, Karen and the board for the past three years I have learned so much and truly come to appreciate the work the NCLGA does.

I am excited to work with Oliver and the new board to develop a series of innovative initiatives including:

• the NCLGA Literacy Legacy

• Northern BC Advocacy Days

• building a series of in-house consultation capacities to assist local governments

• forging new relationships with those companies who are investing in Northern BC (ie industry round-tables on technology, health, communications).

I look forward to continuing this exciting work serving as your 2nd Vice-President.

41

Nomination for 2nd Vice President: Nominee: Dave Wilbur Councillor - City of Prince George- 6 years Vice-Chair - Fraser-Fort George Regional District- 3 years

Director - Fraser-Fort George Regional District - 6 years Director at Large on NCLGA- 4 years

Leadership & Experience Trial Lawyer Advocacy Hello again,

Thank you for having elected Dave to the Executive as a Director at Large;

he now seeks your support to step up to position of 2nd V P. He offers

experience, leadership and advocacy skills.

As a Trial Lawyer he won cases through superior organization, extra effort

in preparation and his ability to persuade.

Success for our NCLGA is dependent on the quality of our Resolutions and our Advocacy.

He sits on the Resolutions Committee.

He has drafted many Resolutions and spoken at plenary sessions about the merits of

Resolutions.

At UBCM he championed a Resolution that sought to broaden the Federal Gas Tax criteria to fit

our infrastructure needs.

He has spoken to many Ministers about our issues-Highway upgrades, need to re-instate BC

Ferry service on Northern routes, Infrastructure, broadband connection, cost of Policing and

Public Safety, need for Revenue sharing from new development, need for more rural Doctors,

our need for much better rural ambulance services and trades training.

Dave and his family have lived and worked in the North for 40 years. He is a Rotarian and

assumed many leadership roles, including- Chair of BC Community Futures, President of

YMCA, Director for Hospice, and Table Officer on PG Airport Authority, and Trustee on the PG

Public Library Board.

In 2015 the NCLGA will meet in Prince George for it’s AGM and Convention. Dave is committed

to delivering a high quality NCLGA convention.

ELECT Dave Wilbur 2nd Vice President

42

Nominees for Director At Large

Nomination for Director at Large: Nominee: Raj Basran Councillor – Village of McBride

Raj Basran has been a resident of Robson Valley for about 13 years. Raj and his wife, Sheila have two teenagers. Raj was elected as a Councillor in 2011. He has been a logging contractor with McBride Community Forest for about 11 years. Over the years Raj and Sheila have worked hard and now also own and operate Cougar Den Cabins, for the last 5 years. Just last year they ventured into yet another business, BKB Cedar Manufacturing, a cedar post and rail mill in McBride. Creating about 15 full time jobs for the Valley.

In the past Raj has owned and operated a retail store, been a paramedic, commercial truck driver, log scaler, life insurance agent, and mutual fund consultant. The committees Raj Basran is involved in McBride through council are:

-Public Works and Airport Committee -Recreation Committee -Tourism/Community Development Committee -Yellowhead Highway Association Representative

In Raj's free time he enjoys spending time with his family, curling, hunting, slow pitch, and camping. But most of all cuddling his beautiful, witty hard working fun loving wife Sheila. McBride Councilor Raj Basran is running for NCLGA Director at Large

43

Nomination for Director at Large: Nominee: Shaely Wilbur Councillor - City of Dawson Creek

Born in Quesnel, BC and raised in the interior. She is a mother to 5

young adults and “Nana” to six grandchildren. Having family spread out

over Northern BC; Shaely not only appreciates the north but has a good

understanding of the issues, concerns and what works in the North.

She believes the NCLGA is an inclusive voice for Northern communities

that broaden the understanding of who we are to the rest of the

province. Shaely moved to Dawson Creek in 1997 and since her arrival

has been a dedicated volunteer in the South Peace. Her pay it forward

attitude embraces her community and she is known for lending support

whenever needed. Shaely has made accessibility at all levels a priority in her community and to

those in the North that need medical assistance elsewhere in the province.

Positions held and Community Achievements:

� Assistant to youth reconnect RCMP Camp

� Volunteer Chair 2005/2008 NBCWG

� Gymnastics Chair 2008 NBCWG

� Parks & Rec Advisory Board – City of Dawson Creek

� Airport Advisory Board – City of Dawson Creek

� President Northern Lights Bingo Association

� Nawican Friendship Centre Soup Kitchen Renovations – Fundraising

� Found and secured funding for tuition/housing funds; for 6 special needs students from Dawson Creek (Vocational/life skills program)

� 2014 Relay for Life Fundraising Chair

Positions held for City Council:

� Dawson Creek City Clean-up Campaign and Awareness week programs

� Dawson Creek Adopt-a-block program

� Emergency Executive Committee Alternate

� Parcel tax roll review panel alternate

44

2014-2015 Appointed Regional Representatives

Region Appointed Representatives

Bulkley-Nechako: Mayor Luke Strimbold, Village of Burns Lake

Cariboo: Director Joan Sorley, Cariboo Regional District, Area “F”

Fraser-Fort George: Mayor Mike Frazier, Village of McBride

Kitimat-Stikine: Mayor Alice Maitland, Village of Hazelton

Northern Rockies: Regional Councillor Kim Eglinski, Northern Rockies Regional Municipality

Peace River: Councillor Byron Stewart, City of Fort St. John

Skeena-Queen Charlotte: Mayor Dave MacDonald, District of Port Edward

Luke Strimbold Bulkley Nechako

Joan Sorley Cariboo

Mike Frazier Fraser-Fort George

Alice Maitland Kitimat-Stikine

Kim Eglinski Northern Rockies

Byron Stewart Peace River

Dave MacDonald Skeena-Queen Charlotte

45

APPENDIX: A

Terms of Reference for Positions on the Executive

of the North Central Local Government Association:

Candidates for the North Central Local Government Association Executive may be nominated by a member municipality or Regional District. If their candidate is successful, the sponsoring community must be prepared to provide the NCLGA with a contact person within the community administration, and provide 20 hours per year of support to the NCLGA Executive Director.

General obligations for Executive committee members:

� Members of the NCLGA Executive are expected to consider the concerns of the entire NCLGA area when participating at the NCLGA table or representing the NCLGA at events and workshops.

� All Executive members will be expected to attend 4 – 6 meetings “In person” meetings throughout the year. Most meetings are held in Prince George, but it may be necessary for meetings to be held in other locations. Members will also be expected to attend regular “conference call” meetings.

� Executive members will confirm attendance or express regrets for all scheduled meetings. � Each Executive member will sit on at least one working committee. Meetings will be held by phone, or

in person in conjunction with an Executive meeting. E-mail communication will also be used. � Executive members will be aware of and follow NCLGA policy and by-laws. � Executive members will be required to use to e-mail and the Internet for internal board

communications.

In addition to the general requirements listed above, specific obligations are attached to the following positions. There are no additional obligations attached to the position of Director at Large:

President: The President is responsible for the following: � Chairing meetings of the NCLGA Executive. � Acting as the main spokesperson for the Association when speaking to the media, membership, public,

and other levels of government. � Acting as the Area Association representative on the UBCM Board of Directors. � Providing direction to staff between Executive meetings. � Ensuring Executive input into the content of media releases.

First Vice President: Acts on behalf of the President in his/her absence. Sits as a table officer on the finance and personnel committees. Second Vice President: Acts on behalf of the President in the absence of the 1st Vice-President. Sits as a table officer on the finance and personnel committees. Regional Representative: In addition to the general requirements, the Regional Representative is responsible for the following:

� Providing a conduit between the membership (municipal councils and regional boards) and the Executive by reporting out to the members within their area and by bringing the concerns of these members to the Executive table.

� Bringing the perspective of the members within the region to issues debated at the Executive table. � With the approval of the President, may be asked to speak on behalf of the Association to the

members, media, public, or other levels of government.

46

Membership List 2014-2015

100 Mile House, District of Bulkley-Nechako, Regional District Burns Lake, Village of Cariboo Regional District Chetwynd, District of Dawson Creek, City of Fort St. James, District of Fort St. John, City of Fraser Lake, Village of Fraser Fort George, Regional District Gitwinksihlkw, Nisga’a Village of Granisle, Village of Hazelton, Village of Houston, District of Hudson’s Hope, District of Kitimat, District of Kitimat-Stikine, Regional District Mackenzie, District of Masset, Village of McBride, Village of New Hazelton, District of Northern Rockies Regional Municipality Peace River, Regional District Port Clements, Village of Port Edward, District of Pouce Coupe, Village of Prince George, City of Prince Rupert, City of Queen Charlotte, Village of Quesnel, City of Skeena Queen Charlotte, Regional District Smithers, Town of Stewart, District of Taylor, District of Telkwa, Village of Terrace, City of Tumbler Ridge, District of Valemount, Village of Vanderhoof, District of Wells, District of Williams Lake, City of

47

NCLGA 2014

RESOLUTIONS COMMITTEE

Kim Eglinski Resolutions Chair

Regional Councillor Northern Rockies

Regional Municipality

Mike Frazier Mayor

Village of McBride

Jerrilyn Schembri

Director Peace River

Regional District

Dave Wilbur

Councillor City of Prince George

48

Resolutions Debate Process

1) Resolutions Chair or Committee Member will read the

Title, Enactment Clause and NCLGA Executive

Recommendation for each resolution.

2) After the Enactment Clause is read, the resolution will

be deemed as being put to the Members for debate.

3) The Sponsor will have the opportunity to introduce the

resolution, and provide clarification as to the intent.

4) Members will have an opportunity to comment on the

resolution. When commenting, please:

o use the PRO or CON microphones.

o clearly state your name, position & community.

o limit your comments to two minutes.

5) An amendment may be made at any time.

6) When the Chair deems that adequate debate has

occurred the question will be called.

7) Once it has been determined that there are only

delegates speaking at con mike (i.e. only “con” opinions

being voiced) the question will be called.

49

NCLGA RESOLUTIONS 2014 TABLE OF CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE RESOLUTIONS: ...................................................................................................51 A1: INDUSTRIAL TAXATION OF LIQUEFIED NATURAL GAS INDUSTRY ...............................51

MEMBER RESOLUTIONS: ........................................................................................................52

COMMUNITY AND RESOURCES ....................................................................................................52

B1: BC ASSESSMENT AUTHORITY .........................................................................................52

B2: WORK CAMP DEVELOPMENT & MONITORING ...............................................................53

B3: WORKER CAMP PERMITTING ...........................................................................................54

B4: INDUSTRY RESOURCE BENEFIT ......................................................................................55

ENERGY ............................................................................................................................................56 B5: LIQUID NATURAL GAS DEVELOPMENT ...........................................................................56

B6: LNG PROJECTS IN NORTHERN BC ..................................................................................57

B7: ACCESS TO NATURAL GAS ..............................................................................................58

B8: DOMESTIC NATURAL GAS SUPPLY .................................................................................59

ENVIRONMENT ...............................................................................................................................60

B9: STREETLIGHTS AND CARBON NEUTRALITY ..................................................................60

FINANCE ..........................................................................................................................................62

B10: RESOURCE EXTRACTION REVENUE SHARING ..............................................................62

B11: REMEDIATION FOR BROWNFIELDS AQUIRED THROUGH TAX SALE ...........................63

B12: COMMUNITY CHARTER/ LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT AMENDMENT .............................64

HEALTH ...........................................................................................................................................65

B13: UTILIZATION OF THE COMMUNITY PARAMEDICINE MODEL FOR AMBULATORY SERVICE IN NORTHERN BC ..............................................................................................65

B14: COMMUNITY SPECIFIC FIRST RESPONDER AGREEMENTS .........................................66

B15: MEDICAL TRANSPORTATION ...........................................................................................67

B16: ANTI-IDLING........................................................................................................................68

JUSTICE & PROTECTIVE SERVICES .............................................................................................69

B17: VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENTS/ FIRE UNDERWRITERS SURVEY CLASSES ..........69

B18: RURAL RCMP STAFFING LEVELS ....................................................................................70

LEGISLATIVE ..................................................................................................................................71

B19: BOUNDARY EXTENSION GUIDELINES .............................................................................71

SOCIAL ISSUES ..............................................................................................................................72

B20: PROVINCIAL SOCIAL POLICY FRAMEWORK ...................................................................72

B21: RENTAL SUBSIDIES FOR LOW INCOME HOUSEHOLDS .................................................73

B22: $10/ DAY CHILD CARE .......................................................................................................74

B23: AFFORDABLE HOUSING....................................................................................................75

B24: ESTABLISHING A YOUTH CAUCUS ..................................................................................76

TRANSPORTATION & COMMUNICATION .....................................................................................77

B25: ASIA-PACIFIC NORTHERN TRANSPORTATION INFRASTRUCTURE STRATEGY ..........77

B26: RAIL TRANSPORTATION SAFETY ....................................................................................78

B27: COASTAL FERRIES: RESTORATION OF SERVICE LEVELS, FISCAL FAIRNESS AND LONG-TERM STRATEGY ...........................................................................................80

B28: HIGHWAYS IN NORTHERN BRITISH COLUMBIA ..............................................................82

B29: PRIORITY PHONE SERVICE RESTORATION ...................................................................83

B30: RAILWAY SPEED LIMITS WITHIN MUNICIPAL BORDERS ...............................................84

B31: WHISTLE CESSATION .......................................................................................................85

LATE RESOLUTIONS ......................................................................................................................86

LR1: GEOTHERMAL POWER .....................................................................................................86

LR2: STRENGTHENING TELECOMMUNICATIONS INFRASTRUCTURE ..................................86

LR3: RECYCLING SERVICES IN RURAL AND SMALL COMMUNITIES ....................................87

50

NCLGA RESOLUTIONS 2014

EXECUTIVE RESOLUTIONS:

A1: INDUSTRIAL TAXATION OF LIQUEFIED NATURAL GAS INDUSTRY

NCLGA EXECUTIVE WHEREAS the provincial government has indicated that it is considering, as part of a liquefied natural gas (LNG) regime for the Province of BC, capping increases of property tax rates for LNG-related industrial properties; AND WHEREAS the UBCM, with the support of the provincial government, has long held to the following principles, most recently affirmed in the member-endorsed 2008 policy paper, “Financing Local Government: Achieving Fiscal Balance:”

• The ultimate determination of the local public interest in terms of local responsibilities lies with locally elected representatives; including the freedom to determine the level of local services, expenditures and taxation;

Local government should have the necessary legislative powers to meet its responsibilities, the power to ensure its policies and financial programs are mutually supporting, and the discretion and flexibility to determine the most appropriate methods of meeting the local needs; and

• Property taxation distribution must be the responsibility of local government; it should be based on actual value assessment and grants in lieu of taxes paid by other governments and their agencies should be paid on the same basis as the ordinary taxpayer:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA urge the provincial government to refrain from considering or implementing a cap on local government's ability to set property tax rates for industrial properties related to the liquefied natural gas industry. UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution calling on the provincial government to refrain from considering or implementing a cap on local government's ability to set property tax rates for industrial properties specifically related to the liquefied natural gas industry. However, as expressed by the sponsor in the text of the resolution, the authority of local government to set property taxation distribution is a key component of local government in BC -- one that has long been supported by local government and the provincial government alike. NCLGA Membership:

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MEMBER RESOLUTIONS:

COMMUNITY AND RESOURCES

B1: BC ASSESSMENT AUTHORITY SKEENA QUEEN CHARLOTTE REGIONAL DISTRICT

WHEREAS limited and infrequent property sales may not accurately reflect market values in many rural areas of British Columbia; AND WHEREAS the BC Assessment Authority is legislated to use mandated formulas based on market data when assessing residential properties, and this has historically contributed to significant shifts in the assessed values of properties in some rural communities; THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA and the UBCM urge the Provincial Government to provide the BC Assessment Authority with more flexibility when assessing properties in rural British Columbia. NCLGA Executive Recommendation: No Recommendation UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution seeking to grant the BC Assessment Authority more flexibility when assessing rural properties. UBCM would observe that the BC Assessment Authority was created to ensure that there was a consistent process for setting property valuation and classification across British Columbia. The process used is important to local governments across the province and there is a need to exercise caution when requesting increased flexibility. NCLGA Membership:

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B2: WORK CAMP DEVELOPMENT & MONITORING

REGIONAL DISTRICT OF KITIMAT-STIKINE CITY OF TERRACE

WHEREAS industrial work camps create demand for local services such as health care, waste management and emergency response; AND WHEREAS issuing of land tenure for work camps, monitoring of camps to meet environmental and health standards and oversight on camp decommissioning may be made by various provincial government agencies, often operating individually and without local government input; THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA and the UBCM advocate to the Provincial Government to establish a referral process that allows Local Governments and other government agencies to comment on the location of industrial work camps and establish an overarching authority to coordinate work camp development and monitor work camp operations. NCLGA Executive Recommendation: Endorse UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution calling on the provincial government to establish a referral process that allows stakeholders to “comment on the location of industrial work camps and establish an overarching authority to coordinate work camp development and monitor work camp operations.” UBCM would note, however, that members endorsed a related resolution, 2005-B36, which in part expressed concern about the impacts of increased economic activity on housing, medical services, recreation and other aspects of communities. See also resolution B3. NCLGA Membership:

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B3: WORKER CAMP PERMITTING

PEACE RIVER REGIONAL DISTRICT WHEREAS current provincial licensing requirements for establishment of worker camps involve multiple authorities without effective inter-agency coordination thereby detracting from local government’s ability to achieve maximum regional prosperity and social equity; THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that as a condition to establishing a worker camp, the Province be requested to establish a single window approval process for all industries that allows for comment from any agency, regulator and local government that has interest in the operation, safety, health and socio-economic impacts associated with the camp. NCLGA Executive Recommendation: Endorse UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution calling on the provincial government to establish a “single window approval process” for work camps that allows for stakeholder comment. UBCM would note, however, that members endorsed a related resolution, 2005-B36, which in part expressed concern about the impacts of increased economic activity on housing, medical services, recreation and other aspects of communities. See also resolution B2. NCLGA Membership: BACKGROUND: Currently, regulating remote worker camps involves a complex web of local, regional and provincial authorities and there is no single window for permitting camps in BC. There are impacts to communities and regions as a result of worker camps and the transient work force in such areas as: policing, water, sewer, transportation, health and economy. Collaboration across all regulatory agencies, including local government, will go a long way to ensuring that both quality of life and economic development will thrive in a region.

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B4: INDUSTRY RESOURCE BENEFIT

DISTRICT OF HUDSON’S HOPE

WHEREAS BC resources such as water and natural gas may be transported over long distances through pipelines; and WHEREAS BC residents are frequently unable to access the resource being transported through their area in those pipelines, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED That UBCM work with the province to develop a system that enables BC residents to cost-effectively access resources which are being transported through their area.

NCLGA Executive Recommendation: No Recommendation NCLGA Membership:

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ENERGY

B5: LIQUID NATURAL GAS DEVELOPMENT VILLAGE OF QUEEN CHARLOTTE

WHEREAS Liquid Natural Gas (LNG) development in northeastern BC and proposed pipelines, terminal facilities, and tanker transportation from the north coast will have large, cumulative environmental, social and economic impacts; AND WHEREAS this development is happening across BC impacting the land and communities of northern BC both civic and First Nation, without the means of meaningful consultation and involvement; AND WHEREAS comprehensive planning and cumulative impact assessment have been lacking to date: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA requests that the Province of BC and First Nations convene and co-chair a Strategic Economic and Environmental Impact Assessment of LNG development in British Columbia. AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the NCLGA requests that the Province and First Nations invite the Federal government to also participate in this joint planning process. NCLGA Executive Recommendation: No Recommendation UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership endorsed resolution 2005-B36, which expressed concern about the impacts of increased economic activity on housing, medical services, recreation and other aspects of communities; and requested that the Oil and Gas Commission consult with local government “so that the level of increasing economic activity can be ascertained and considered with regard to future community and regional developments.” In response to the resolution the provincial government indicated that the Oil and Gas Commission (OGC) would, upon request from a local government, provide information or reports, and attend municipal or regional district meetings. The Province also anticipated that planned structural changes and increased staffing in the Compliance and Enforcement Branch would result in better service to communities. The Province acknowledged that “communities’ information needs are different.” As well, the provincial government clarified the roles of the OGC and the then Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources (Ministry). According to the Province, the OGC is mandated to “regulate for the benefit of all, considering environmental, social and economic matters,” while the Ministry’s role is to “facilitate responsible development of the resource.” See also resolution B6. NCLGA Membership:

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B6: LNG PROJECTS IN NORTHERN BC

SKEENA QUEEN CHARLOTTE REGIONAL DISTRICT

WHEREAS the Province is actively supporting the development of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) as British Columbia’s future economic driver; AND WHEREAS multiple proposals and applications for LNG and other large scale industrial projects are creating a drain on the limited resources of many small communities and regional districts;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA urge the Provincial government to develop an LNG plan to provide immediate and meaningful assistance to local governments in British Columbia to address the issue.

NCLGA Executive Recommendation: No Recommendation UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership endorsed resolution 2005-B36, which expressed concern about the impacts of increased economic activity on housing, medical services, recreation and other aspects of communities; and requested that the Oil and Gas Commission consult with local government “so that the level of increasing economic activity can be ascertained and considered with regard to future community and regional developments.” In response to the resolution the provincial government indicated that the Oil and Gas Commission (OGC) would, upon request from a local government, provide information or reports, and attend municipal or regional district meetings. The Province also anticipated that planned structural changes and increased staffing in the Compliance and Enforcement Branch would result in better service to communities. The Province acknowledged that “communities’ information needs are different.” As well, the provincial government clarified the roles of the OGC and the then Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources (Ministry). According to the Province, the OGC is mandated to “regulate for the benefit of all, considering environmental, social and economic matters,” while the Ministry’s role is to “facilitate responsible development of the resource.” See also resolution B5. NCLGA Membership:

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B7: ACCESS TO NATURAL GAS

PEACE RIVER REGIONAL DISTRICT

WHEREAS we are aware there is an abundance of natural gas in BC; AND WHEREAS there are many residents and businesses who, for economic, health and environmental reasons, are requesting access to our resource; AND WHEREAS the people need to require the British Columbia Utilities Commission (BCUC) to examine the natural gas extension test and connection policies in order to provide a more reasonable Utility System Extension Test; THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Province of BC, through the Union of British Columbia Municipalities, review natural gas extension policies such that more residents and business throughout British Columbia can take advantage of the economic and environmental benefits of natural gas. NCLGA Executive Recommendation: No Recommendation UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting that the Province of BC review natural gas extension policies with the goal of expanding access to natural gas throughout the province. NCLGA Membership: BACKGROUND: The Utility System Extension Test Guidelines were established in 1996 and should be revised, considered and amended to better meet current supply and demand needs of residents throughout BC.

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B8: DOMESTIC NATURAL GAS SUPPLY

PEACE RIVER REGIONAL DISTRICT WHEREAS the singular energy policy direction of the Province of British Columbia is to export natural gas in significant volumes; AND WHEREAS Australia has already focused on the export of natural gas to the detriment of their domestic, business, manufacturing and institutional communities: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Premier develop priority policies to ensure that the domestic supply for citizens, business, manufacturing and institutional needs will remain readily accessible and priced to be affordable. NCLGA Executive Recommendation: Endorse UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership endorsed resolution 2012-B85, which in part requested that the provincial government “develop strategies that will address the long term domestic supply” as well as “satisfy existing commitments” for natural gas in BC. In response to the resolution the provincial government highlighted its Natural Gas Strategy and complementary Liquefied Natural Gas Strategy. The Province provided assurance that the Natural Gas Strategy is designed to “ensure there is a reliable, abundant supply” of natural gas for domestic use; and the Liquefied Natural Gas Strategy will in part focus on “keeping energy rates affordable for families, communities and industry.” NCLGA Membership:

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ENVIRONMENT

B9: STREETLIGHTS AND CARBON NEUTRALITY

THE VILLAGE OF PORT CLEMENTS THE VILLAGE OF QUEEN CHARLOTTE

THE VILLAGE OF MASSET THE DISTRICT OF NEW HAZELTON

THE DISTRICT OF STEWART

WHEREAS BC Municipalities who signed the Climate Action Charter were supposed to achieve carbon neutrality by 2012 and streetlights represent a significant portion of electrical usage, especially for small northern communities; AND WHEREAS BC Hydro owns a significant percentage of the streetlights under the 1701 designation, especially in smaller communities, which is preventing those communities from being able to address their carbon footprint by changing to LED streetlights: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA and the UBCM supports lobbying the provincial government to make the necessary changes to BC Hydro to allow all communities to reach locally appropriate solutions to switch BC Hydro owned streetlights to LED lights. NCLGA Executive Recommendation: Endorse UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting that the provincial government address the issue of ownership of streetlight infrastructure, to give local governments the option to install energy efficient streetlights. NCLGA Membership:

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BACKGROUND: BC Hydro Owned Streetlights Municipalities who signed the Climate Action Charter are required to be carbon neutral either through changes in operations, by purchasing carbon credits or through some combination thereof. This creates a challenge, especially in small communities who do not have the resources or the density of population to make some of the options cost effective. Streetlights represent a large electrical use for most municipalities. BC Hydro owns most streetlights (classified as Schedule 1701 – Overhead Street Lights) in small communities and in some larger communities as well. LED technology represents at minimum a 45% savings in electrical consumption and carbon emissions (the estimates vary between 45-65%). Currently, for any streetlight fixture owned by BC Hydro, there is no mechanism to allow Municipalities to have them changed to LED fixtures even if the community is willing to fund the retrofit 100%. Small communities are not significant enough power consumers to have Key Account Managers within BC Hydro to advocate on their behalf. Additionally, BC Hydro doesn’t currently have a tariff in place to recognize the reduced power consumption of LED lighting. Creating a tariff involves the BC Utilities Commission and is a slow process. Haida Gwaii has had funding in place since the beginning of 2012 to replace 1701 Streetlights with LED fixtures and have been negotiating with BC Hydro to allow them to switch to LED lights since March of 2012. The north end of Haida Gwaii runs exclusively on diesel generated hydro whose rates are subsidized by the rest of British Columbia residents therefore making the conversion to LED in all British Columbians interest. Although BC Hydro is a large organization and the wheels often turn much slower where several levels of bureaucracy are involved, LED streetlights are not new technology. NCLGA and UBCM need to strongly encourage BC Hydro to move quicker on this issue and to work with small communities, regardless of the amount of power consumption involved, to reach solutions that support BC Hydro’s green initiatives and BC Municipalities obligations under the Climate Action Charter.

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FINANCE

B10: RESOURCE EXTRACTION REVENUE SHARING

DISTRICT OF FORT ST. JAMES

WHEREAS resource extraction taxation from northern British Columbia constitutes a large portion of total provincial revenues; AND WHEREAS communities located near resource projects (such as Mount Milligan Mine) have been and will continue to be economically impacted by the development and operations of such projects; AND WHEREAS the province has entered into agreements for mining revenue sharing with First Nations and “Fair Share” agreements for oil and gas revenue with certain local governments in the northeast; THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA call on the province to enter into fair agreements with municipalities and regional districts affected by resource development in their region, to appropriately share resource taxation revenues in order to support local infrastructure and programming.


UBCM Comments: UBCM members have sought opportunities for new revenue sources (Financing Local Government Study 1998) and the Communities and Resources Committee recommended in its 1998 policy paper that "a portion of the stumpage revenue must remain in the harvesting area (revenue should start flowing back to the producing communities)." More recently, UBCM members have supported and requested that the Province share resource revenues (i.e. stumpage, royalties, etc.) with local governments (2012-B20, 2011-B29, 2009-B30, 2004 Resource Revenue Sharing Policy Paper, 2003-B30). NCLGA Membership:

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B11: REMEDIATION FOR BROWNFIELDS AQUIRED THROUGH TAX SALE


WHEREAS rural communities acquire brownfield properties through tax sale; AND WHEREAS rural communities continue to lack resources to remediate brownfields: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Province of British Columbia commit to a funding program to assist local governments in remediating brownfield sites acquired through a tax sale. NCLGA Executive Recommendation: Endorse UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting the provincial government to establish a funding program to assist with local government remediation of brownfield sites acquired by local governments through the tax sale process. However, UBCM notes that members endorsed resolution 2011-B99, which expressed concern at the direct and opportunity costs that arise when a development or related permit application happens to trigger a contaminated site remediation process. The resolution asked the Province to “increase financial assistance to local governments to offset these real negative economic impacts,” and investigate ways to minimize any negative economic effects of requirements to remediate contaminated sites. In response to the 2011 resolution the provincial government referenced the BC Brownfield Renewal Funding Program, which in part provided funding to assist with remediation of contaminated sites owned by local governments. NCLGA Membership:

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B12: COMMUNITY CHARTER/ LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT AMENDMENT

CITY OF PRINCE RUPERT

WHEREAS municipalities become the owners of properties arising through the mandatory provisions of community Charter/ Local Government Act legislation that regulates Municipal Property Tax Sales; AND WHEREAS the municipal title to the property can then be disputed in a court of law or other tribunal; AND WHEREAS the property title disputes prevent municipalities from transferring title to another purchaser and thereby hinder the sale of the property; AND WHEREAS the holding costs, the legal costs as well as opportunity costs while title is resolved can be extremely expensive and burdensome to a municipality; THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA and the UBCM request that the Province amend the Community Charter and Local Government Act so that a municipality’s clear title to a property as a result of the Municipal Tax Sale Process cannot be disputed in a court of law or other tribunal more than once.

NCLGA Executive Recommendation: No Recommendation UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership considered resolution 2013-B98, which requested legislative amendments to eliminate entirely the right of a former owner of a tax sale property to dispute the sale in court. The UBCM membership did not endorse the resolution. The 2014 resolution differs in that it would preserve the right of a former owner of a tax sale property to dispute the sale in court; however, the former owner would have only one chance to undertake such action for a particular piece of property. UBCM would note that members have consistently endorsed resolutions calling for reform to the tax sale process, including eliminating the tax sale auction (2005-B17), providing authority for a municipality to set aside a tax sale for reasons of manifest error (2005-B86), shortening the redemption period (2000-B2) and increasing penalties and interest during the redemption period (1984-A8). While all of these resolutions are aimed at finding efficiencies in the tax sale process, UBCM would observe that none appear to limit the ability of the former owner of the property to dispute the process in court. Further, UBCM would question whether denying access to the courts is appropriate in the circumstances, given the potential significance of the loss of the property to the former owner. NCLGA Membership:

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HEALTH

B13: UTILIZATION OF THE COMMUNITY PARAMEDICINE MODEL FOR AMBULATORY SERVICE IN NORTHERN BC

DISTRICT OF HUDSON’S HOPE

WHEREAS Community Paramedicine is the practice that represents the intersection of health care, public health, and public safety to promote optimal quality of life; and AND WHEREAS this Community Paramedicine model has the potential to prevent and reduce high cost medical treatment; THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA and the UBCM lobby the BC Government/BCEHS to research the Community Paramedicine Model of health care for use in all of rural and remote BC communities; and AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the NCLGA and the UBCM lobby the BC Government and BCEHS that paramedics of the BC Ambulance Service be employed full time to deliver the paramedicine model of health to rural and remote BC communities. NCLGA Executive Recommendation: No Recommendation UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting the provincial government to research and implement the Community Paramedicine Model of health care in rural and remote BC communities. However, UBCM would note that members have consistently endorsed resolutions seeking improvements and greater resourcing for health care in rural and remote communities (most recently 2013-B43, 2013-B44, 2013-B45, 2013-B46, 2013-B47, 2012-B38, 2012-B39, 2012-B91, 2012-B93, 2012-B103, 2011-B60, 2011-B61, 2010-B43, 2010-B44, 2010-B112, 2009-B148, 2008-B49, 2006-B48, 2006-B50, 2006-B154, 2006-B156 and 2005-B146). NCLGA Membership:

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B14: COMMUNITY SPECIFIC FIRST RESPONDER AGREEMENTS

DISTRICT OF TAYLOR

WHEREAS local governments that choose to provide additional pre-hospital care to their citizens, through the First Responder Program, must sign an agreement to follow a model that is used province-wide, from metropolitan areas to the most rural parts of the province, and which may not address their individual needs or circumstances; AND WHEREAS collaborative pilot projects have proven successful in both addressing the needs and capacities of individual communities as well as being beneficial to the care of the citizens of British Columbia; THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the UBCM request the Provincial Government, through BC Emergency Health Services, enter into dialogue with individual local governments and tailor agreements for pre-hospital care to the specific needs and abilities of individual communities. NCLGA Executive Recommendation: No Recommendation UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership considered but did not endorse resolution 2005-B71, which requested amendment of the Health Emergency Act to “require the BC Ambulance Service to automatically advise local fire departments when dispatching emergency health service calls.” NCLGA Membership:

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B15: MEDICAL TRANSPORTATION

DISTRICT OF STEWART

WHEREAS patients in rural and remote communities require medical attention in larger centers within the Province; and WHEREAS a current lack exists for accessible transportation to return patients to their home communities after treatment; THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the North Central Local Government Association and the Union of British Columbia Municipalities urge the Provincial Health Minister to provide residents requiring medical care within the province with appropriate means to return to their homes in rural and remote communities. NCLGA Executive Recommendation: No Recommendation UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership endorsed resolution 2012-B38, which asked the provincial government to provide additional medical transportation services for rural British Columbians. In response to the resolution the provincial government highlighted the regional Health Connections program, offering low-cost ground transport; the provincial Travel Assistance Program (TAP), through which several private transportation carriers offer fare discounts; and the BC Family Residence Program, which can include enhanced travel assistance. UBCM members have also endorsed other resolutions concerning the provision of assistance for health care related travel costs, including requests that the Province:

• subsidize the ferry fares of immediate family members when travelling back and forth on BC Ferries during the extended period of a child’s treatment (2010-B110);

• improve affordable public transportation service between small rural municipalities and hospitals in larger urban centres (2009-B15);

• extend the Health Connections Program to subsidize travel for medical care for any rural residents outside their home community, regardless of distance (2006-B156); and

establish local mechanisms within communities to disburse funding to citizens for medical travel expenses (2005-B146). NCLGA Membership:

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B16: ANTI-IDLING


WHEREAS vehicle emissions create a public health risk of chronic diseases including cancer as well as cardiovascular and respiratory diseases; AND WHEREAS Idle Free BC supports efforts to reduce unnecessary vehicle idling: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM lobby the Provincial Government to increase the focus on health risks in the Idle Free BC initiative and to increase efforts to raise public awareness of this campaign. NCLGA Executive Recommendation: No Recommendation UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership endorsed resolution 2001-SR3, which in part called on the provincial and federal governments to work with local government to “develop airshed management plans to reduce emissions and to protect public health.” UBCM also notes that more generally members have consistently endorsed resolutions seeking to reduce emissions (2010-B83, 2010-B84, 2010-B86, 2007-B33, 2006-B27, 2005-B28, 1991-B21, 1990-B38). NCLGA Membership:

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JUSTICE & PROTECTIVE SERVICES

B17: VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENTS/ FIRE UNDERWRITERS SURVEY CLASSES

REGIONAL DISTRICT OF FRASER-FORT GEORGE

WHEREAS the Fire Underwriters Survey has a system for classifying local government fire protection services for the insurance industry to determine fire protection coverage risks and the premiums; AND WHEREAS small community volunteer fire departments are coming under pressure to meet ever-increasing regulatory standards and criteria with respect to the delivery of structural fire protection services including the Fire Underwriters Survey classification system; THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA encourage the Fire Underwriters Survey to review its classification system with a goal to introduce new classes that recognize those small community volunteer fire departments that may not meet current minimum Fire Underwriters Survey classification criteria but still provide a meaningful benefit to the communities they serve and the insurance industry. NCLGA Executive Recommendation: No Recommendation UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting the Fire Underwriters Survey to review its classification system specifically to introduce new classes for small community volunteer fire departments. UBCM is aware, however, that members have consistently endorsed resolutions seeking flexibility from the Fire Underwriters Survey in setting requirements and guidelines, to accommodate the particular challenges faced by fire services in small and rural communities (2011-B2, 2009-B5, 1999-B6, 1995-B72, 1994-B19). NCLGA Membership:

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B18: RURAL RCMP STAFFING LEVELS


WHEREAS the RCMP provides policing in rural communities; AND WHEREAS RCMP staff shortages produce a grave threat to the public; AND WHEREAS staff shortages can be identified by RCMP audit: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Provincial Government increase the number of RCMP members at detachments that have identified staff shortages through RCMP audit. NCLGA Executive Recommendation: No Recommendation UBCM Comments: UBCM members have consistently endorsed resolutions calling on the federal and provincial governments to provide resources to maintain or improve police service levels in small or rural communities (2013-B6, 2013-B7, 2012-A4, 2012-B1, 2010-B10, 2006-B12, 2005-B62, 2002-B27). NCLGA Membership:

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LEGISLATIVE

B19: BOUNDARY EXTENSION GUIDELINES

CITY OF FORT ST. JOHN

WHEREAS, the Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development’s boundary extension guidelines for obtaining rural property owners' opinions can be calculated by utilizing either:

• one opinion per property owner (regardless of the number of properties ) OR

• one opinion per parcel (regardless of the number of property owners as some properties may have more than one individual on title) without taking into consideration assessed value or parcel size that results in large parcel owners being at a disadvantage,

AND WHEREAS, rural property owners' opinions should be calculated using the Community Charter’s local area service project formula which is 50% of the property owners who have over 50% of the assessed value of land and improvements for fairness and equity, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA be requested to petition the UBCM to request the Province of BC to amend their boundary extension guidelines to utilize the local area service project calculation formula to gauge rural property owners' opinions. NCLGA Executive Recommendation: No Recommendation UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting the provincial government to amend municipal boundary extension guidelines to utilize the local area service project calculation formula to gauge rural property owners' opinions. However, UBCM is aware that members have endorsed resolutions in support of a greater role in the decision-making process for residents of rural areas identified in proposals for municipal boundary extension (2013-B3, 2003-A14, 1991-B62). Different ways have been proposed for increasing the influence of affected rural area residents on the municipal boundary extension process. NCLGA Membership:

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SOCIAL ISSUES

B20: PROVINCIAL SOCIAL POLICY FRAMEWORK

DISTRICT OF FORT ST. JAMES WHEREAS The Province is supportive of community social well-being and recognizes municipalities as partners in delivering social services, health care, justice and education services; AND WHEREAS our communities are limited in their capacity to deliver many of these services and are facing increasing social challenges; THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA call upon the Province of British Columbia to initiate the development of a Social Policy Framework that will set out key policy directions, roles and expectations required to coordinate the multiple organizations involved in meeting our social needs. NCLGA Executive Recommendation: No Recommendation UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting that the provincial government initiate consultation with British Columbians toward the development of a social policy framework for BC. UBCM understands that at present, the Local Government Act permits an individual local government to address social policy in its official community plan. Specifically: 878. (1) An official community plan may include the following: (a) policies of the local government relating to social needs, social well-being and social development. The resolution being proposed would support broad discussion province-wide about social aspects of public policy. It is unclear to UBCM whether the outcomes of such discussion might impact a local government’s own ability to set social policy. In terms of broad public policy, UBCM notes that members have endorsed resolutions raising a range of social, health, justice and education issues that might be encompassed by a social policy framework (2013-B52, 2012-B41, 2012-B110, 2011-A4, 2011-B74, 2011-B108, 2010-B12, 2010-B44, 2010-B48, 2010-B115, 2010-B154, 2008-B46, 2007-LR8, 2006-B52, 2006-B162, 2005-B143, 2005-B156, 2005-B159, 2004-B35, 2004-B36, 2004-B102, 2003-SR3, 2003-B36, 2003-B40, 2003-B101, 2003-B136, 2001-B73, 2000-B109, 1999-A14, 1999-B95, 1999-B96, 1995-A12, 1995-LR1, 1994-B99, 1992-B56, 1990-A20, 1988-A11, 1987-A21). NCLGA Membership:

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B21: RENTAL SUBSIDIES FOR LOW INCOME HOUSEHOLDS

DISTRICT OF KITIMAT

WHEREAS the District of Kitimat is concerned that the current economy has resulted in high rental rates and has affected the ability of residents on low and fixed incomes to acquire housing in Kitimat and throughout the region; AND WHEREAS access to safe, affordable housing is a requirement to create healthy communities; THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA petitions the Provincial Government to increase B.C Housing rental subsidies for low-income households in northern communities affected by industrial development. NCLGA Executive Recommendation: No Recommendation UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions seeking increased rental subsidies for low-income households, including those in northern and interior communities (2013-B53, 2013-B54, 2000-B31, 1999-A22, 1991-A13). NCLGA Membership:

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B22: $10/ DAY CHILD CARE

CITY OF WILLIAMS LAKE

WHEREAS the current lack of adequate, qualified and affordable daycare for working families in BC is hindering economic growth, job opportunities for workers and a child’s well-being; AND WHEREAS in 2012 the Union of BC Municipalities endorsed the plan for an Integrated System of Early Care and Learning in BC which provides a framework for early childhood services so that children, families, communities and our economy are served by a high quality, universal, democratic and accountable system of early care and learning; THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA and the UBCM advocate the Province of BC for the implementation of the Community Plan for a Public System of Integrated Early Care and Learning and call for action to begin steps toward implementing a $10/Day Childcare Program for BC.

NCLGA Executive Recommendation: Endorse UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions calling on all orders of government to work to ensure the provision and availability of affordable, accessible child care and early learning (2012-B50, 2011-B66, 2010-B151, 2007-B54, 2007-LR8, 2005-B156, 2004-B137, 2001-B98, 1992-B78, 1990-B50). In response to the 2012 resolution the provincial government pointed out that it had “increased the number of child-care spaces in British Columbia by nearly 40 percent since 2003/04, with more than 100,000 licensed child care spaces receiving ongoing government funding.” The Province also referenced forums held in 2012, one on child care and the other on early childhood development, organized by the Ministry of Children and Family Development to seek input from stakeholders. NCLGA Membership:

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B23: AFFORDABLE HOUSING

CITY OF TERRACE

WHEREAS the lack of affordable and/or co-operative housing in northern communities is having a deleterious effect on local economies and the quality of life for many British Columbians; AND WHEREAS affordable housing is essential to support vibrant and healthy communities, and will continue to be required; THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA and the UBCM advocate to the Provincial Government to increase the number of new affordable housing units constructed in Northern British Columbia as soon as possible. NCLGA Executive Recommendation: Endorse UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions calling on all orders of government to work together to implement a range of ideas aimed at increasing affordable housing units throughout the province (most recently 2013-B53, 2013-B54, 2011-B67, 2009-A5, 2009-C28, 2008-A3, 2008-B118, 2007-A7, 2007-B23, 2007-B24, 2007-B58, 2007-B109, 2007-B153, 2006-B23, 2006-B81, 2005-A9, 2005-B47, 2005-B48, 2005-B50, 2004-A8, 2004-B30, 2002-B64, 2000-B31 and 2000-B77). NCLGA Membership:

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B24: ESTABLISHING A YOUTH CAUCUS

CITY OF WILLIAMS LAKE WHEREAS young adults in our communities are less likely to vote in municipal elections and engage in civic affairs;

AND WHEREAS the City of Williams Lake has offered a successful Junior Council program to the community over the past four years which has provided an opportunity for youth to learn about municipal affairs and participate in the civic affairs of the community;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA and the UBCM establish a youth caucus that would provide an opportunity for youth to participate in sessions to engage youth in civic affairs and that the UBCM’s member communities be encouraged to establish youth councils in their communities. NCLGA Executive Recommendation: Endorse UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting specifically that UBCM establish a youth caucus, and also encouraging UBCM member local governments to establish youth councils in their communities. However, UBCM notes that members considered but did not endorse resolution 2001-B41, which asked the provincial government to amend the Local Government Act to enable local governments to establish elected “Civic Youth Councils” that would provide input to local governments on youth-related matters. UBCM also notes that the previous year, UBCM members considered a related resolution (2000-B112) that requested similar amendments to the Local Government Act, without specifying that the “Civic Youth Councils” would be elected. The decision of the UBCM membership on the 2000 resolution was “no action required.” UBCM would observe that the establishment of a youth caucus and coordination of associated programs or events is outside the scope of current UBCM operations, and would trigger an increase in membership dues. NCLGA Membership:

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TRANSPORTATION & COMMUNICATION

B25: ASIA-PACIFIC NORTHERN TRANSPORTATION INFRASTRUCTURE STRATEGY

CITY OF TERRACE WHEREAS economic development growth in the Northwest is resulting in a steady increase to road and rail traffic along the Highway 16 corridor which is creating safety concerns and negatively impacting communities; AND WHEREAS Highway 16 is the northern link to the Asia-Pacific Gateway, and upgrading key road transportation corridors to support trade is a priority in the Province of BC’s “Pacific Gateway Transportation Strategy 2012 – 2020”; THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA and the UBCM advocate for the Provincial Government to initiate an Asia-Pacific Northern Infrastructure Strategy to address barriers to trade and transportation and impacts to northern communities along Highway 16, and that such a strategy include participation by northern stakeholder communities and industry. NCLGA Executive Recommendation: No Recommendation UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution calling on the Province to develop a specific “Asia-Pacific northern infrastructure strategy” complete with stakeholder participation, focused on Highway 16 with the goal of addressing barriers to trade and transportation and impacts to communities. However, UBCM is aware that members have consistently endorsed resolutions seeking a province-wide, multi-modal transportation strategy or policy that would include components such as highway upgrades; safety improvements; transportation of dangerous goods; emergency response; and coordination between different modes of transport (2013-B13, 2009-B16, 2008-B110, 2008-B107, 2003-B59, 2000-B63, 1998-A6, 1996-B88, 1995-B55, 1992-A17). NCLGA Membership:

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B26: RAIL TRANSPORTATION SAFETY

TOWN OF SMITHERS

WHEREAS the Transportation Safety Board has recommended:

a) tougher standards for Class lll tank cars;

b) strategic route planning and safer train operations for all trains carrying dangerous goods; and

c) emergency response assistance plans along routes where large volumes of hazardous materials are being shipped;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA lobby the Federal Government to legislate rail carriers to carry out the Transportation Safety Board's recommendations and provide local governments with: a) timely information regarding the frequency of Class lll tank cars travelling through communities carrying hazardous materials; b) emergency response plans, including estimated response times from emergency response bases to communities; and c) personnel and stockpiles of emergency equipment situated as to ensure adequate and timely responses to railcar emergencies. NCLGA Executive Recommendation: Endorse UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution calling on the federal government to enact legislation requiring rail carriers to implement Transportation Safety Board specific recommendations. However, members have endorsed related resolutions, including 2011-B149, which asked the federal and provincial governments to assess whether emergency response capabilities along the Highway 16 corridor were “appropriate for the quantities and class of hazardous materials now being transported along the new Asia Pacific Gateway corridor.” Members also endorsed resolution 2007-B6, calling on the provincial and federal governments to “take measures to improve ... rural community response capacity in light of the potential increase in hazardous goods traffic.” Since the Lac Mégantic train accident, much work has been done by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities and Transport Canada to take measures that will enhance rail safety; require carriers to carry higher insurance coverage; and provide greater sharing of information with local governments around what hazardous materials are travelling through their communities.

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On April 23,2014 Transport Canada made an announcement in response to addressing the recommendations of the Transportation Safety Board of Canada recommendations. Transport Canada will:

• Issue a Protective Direction removing the least crash-resistant DOT-111 tank cars from dangerous goods service;

• Require DOT-111 tank cars used to transport crude oil and ethanol that do not meet the standard published in January 2014 in Canada Gazette, Part I, or any other future standard, to be phased out or refitted within three years;

• Issue a Protective Direction requiring Emergency Response Assistance Plans for crude oil, gasoline, diesel, aviation fuel, and ethanol;

• Create a task force that brings stakeholders such as municipalities, first responders, railways and shippers together to strengthen emergency response capacity across the country; and

Require railway companies to reduce the speed of trains carrying dangerous goods and implement other key operating practices. NCLGA Membership:

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B27: COASTAL FERRIES: RESTORATION OF SERVICE LEVELS, FISCAL FAIRNESS AND LONG-TERM STRATEGY

SKEENA QUEEN CHARLOTTE REGIONAL DISTRICT

WHEREAS the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) has requested that the Province abandon any plans to increase fares and/or reduce core ferry service levels, as such actions would have irreparable negative impacts on the economic well-being of coastal communities and the provincial tourism sector; AND WHEREAS the UBCM has called on the Province to implement legislation that recognizes ferry services as essential extensions of our public highway system and ensures fiscal fairness between BC’s terrestrial and marine highway systems; AND WHEREAS the UBCM has requested that the Province develop a long-term ferry services strategy, based on detailed socio-economic inquiry, that supports the sustainability of coastal communities and the provincial tourism sector; AND WHEREAS over the past year the Province has (a) failed to implement a long-term ferry services strategy, (b) allowed further rapid escalation of ferry fares, and (c) implemented deep cuts to ferry services without conducting a socio-economic impact analysis; THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA and the UBCM request the Province to:

• Reverse the cuts to coastal ferry services implemented on April 28, 2014 and restore 2013 service levels;

• Work co-operatively with coastal communities on implementing a long-term strategy for the coastal ferry system, based on detailed socio-economic inquiry, that supports the sustainability of coastal communities and the provincial tourism sector;

• Implement legislation that recognizes the coastal ferry system as an extension of our highway system and ensures fiscal fairness between the marine and terrestrial components of our highway system; and

• Freeze ferry fares and service levels at 2013 levels until such time as the above legislation and strategy are implemented.

NCLGA Executive Recommendation: Endorse UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership has endorsed a number of resolutions related to recognizing coastal ferry service as an essential extension of the highway system and requesting that the Province not increase ferry fares and/or reduce core service levels (2013-B12; 2012-B6; 2011-A3; 2010-B20; 2007-B18; 2004-B59). In its response to resolution 2013-B12, the Province indicated that: “Following the Ferry Commissioner’s review of the Coastal Ferry Act, government amended the Act to help reduce the pressure on fares. The amendments give the Commissioner more flexibility to determine the amount of revenue needed to sustain operations and support ongoing investment, as well as additional responsibility to oversee the costs of providing the ferry service.

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[...] the Province has also committed an additional $79.5 in taxpayer funding and challenged BC Ferries to find an additional $15 million in efficiencies to 2016, over and above the $39 million already identified by the Ferry Commissioner. Last year, the Province conducted an extensive public consultation process to discuss the short-term challenges and strategies to achieve the long-term vision for coastal ferries. Forty meetings were held in 30 coastal communities, welcoming over 2,000 participants. As part of a larger strategy, service adjustments will be implemented to ensure the long-term sustainability of the ferry system. The Province will seek further public input this fall regarding these service changes and the long-term vision.” In response to the Province’s November 2013 announcement of service reductions and fare increases, UBCM and the Association of Vancouver Island and Coastal Communities (AVICC) jointly established a Special Committee on BC Ferries to undertake its own socio-economic analysis of the impacts in the absence of the Province doing so. A preliminary report was issued in April 2014 but both associations agreed that additional work needs to be done to fill the information gap that exists on impacts for coastal communities and the Province as a whole. As of May 1, the Special Committee has commenced Phase 2 and will be reporting out in mid-July with its report, findings and recommendations going forward. NCLGA Membership:

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B28: HIGHWAYS IN NORTHERN BRITISH COLUMBIA

DISTRICT OF STEWART

WHEREAS rural and remote communities in British Columbia are experiencing renewed economic development; and WHEREAS accessing communities through established transportation routes is a vital component for fostering economic development; now THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the North Central Local Government Association and the Union of British Columbia Municipalities recommend that the Provincial Transportation Minister take a proactive approach and refurbish existing highways accessing Northern British Columbia. NCLGA Executive Recommendation: Endorse UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership has responded variously to resolutions calling on the provincial government to refurbish or upgrade highways in northern BC. Members have endorsed resolutions generally supportive of highway improvement throughout the province, or on routes that have a significant impact on the provincial economy (2013-B13, 2008-B110, 2003-B11, 2000-B63, 1999-B47, 1998-B54, 1996-B93). However, resolutions calling for upgrades to highways in specific areas of the province have not been endorsed by UBCM members (2011-B161, 2011-B162); while some resolutions due to their regional focus have not been admitted for debate (2013-C10, 2009-C33, 2005-C17, 2004-C35, 2004-C36, 2004-C37, 2003-C49, 2001-C27). NCLGA Membership:

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B29: PRIORITY PHONE SERVICE RESTORATION


WHEREAS access to telephone service is critical during medical emergencies; AND WHEREAS priority must be given to rural residents living outside of cell phone coverage areas when service to telephone land lines is disrupted, as this is their only means of contacting emergency services: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and the UBCM lobby the Provincial and Federal Governments to require that telephone service providers restore service to those customers without access to cell phone coverage on an emergency basis, in the event of a telephone service disruption. NCLGA Executive Recommendation: Endorse UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution calling on the provincial and federal governments to require, in the event of land line telephone service disruption, telephone service providers to prioritize the restoration of land line service for customers without access to cell phone coverage. UBCM would note that members endorsed a related resolution, 2013-B65, which request the provincial government to ensure that cell phone infrastructure is in place in order to provide timely emergency response if land line telephone transmission is disrupted. NCLGA Membership:

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B30: RAILWAY SPEED LIMITS WITHIN MUNICIPAL BORDERS


WHEREAS rail traffic continues to increase throughout the Province of British Columbia; AND WHEREAS current legislation permits rail traffic to regularly travel at unsafe speeds through municipalities: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Transport Canada reduce rail speed limits within municipal borders. NCLGA Executive Recommendation: Endorse UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting that Transport Canada reduce rail speed limits within municipal boundaries. UBCM would note that on April 23 the federal Transport minister responded to the Transportation Safety Board’s recommendations in regard to Lac Megantic rail accident. Transport Canada will “require railway companies to reduce the speed of trains carrying dangerous goods and implement other key operating practices.” Other related rail safety actions announced by Transport Canada include:

• Issue a Protective Direction removing the least crash-resistant DOT-111 tank cars from dangerous goods service;

• Require DOT-111 tank cars used to transport crude oil and ethanol that do not meet the standard published in January 2014 in Canada Gazette, Part I, or any other future standard, to be phased out or refitted within three years;

• Issue a Protective Direction requiring Emergency Response Assistance Plans for crude oil, gasoline, diesel, aviation fuel, and ethanol;

• Create a task force that brings stakeholders such as municipalities, first responders, railways and shippers together to strengthen emergency response capacity across the country.

UBCM has recently joined the newly established BC Provincial Committee on Rail Safety Public Outreach. Comprising the railway industry, enforcement agencies, and all orders of government the Committee is working to promote rail safety and to reduce the number of highway/railway grade crossing collisions and trespassing incidents on railway property. NCLGA Membership:

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B31: WHISTLE CESSATION


WHEREAS rail traffic continues to increase throughout the Province of British Columbia; AND WHEREAS locomotive whistles severely infringe upon citizens’ quiet, peace, rest, enjoyment, comfort and convenience: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Transport Canada require rail corporations provide a safe environment in which whistle sounding will be discontinued. NCLGA Executive Recommendation: No Recommendation UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership considered but did not endorse resolution 2009-B157, which called on rail corporations to provide controlled railway crossings within municipal boundaries, rather than sounding locomotive whistles. UBCM notes that there are strict rules in place as part of the Rail Safety Act that dictate when and where whistles are sounded. These rules apply at all crossings and are required for safety reasons. Through the work of FCM and the Rail Proximity Initiative there is information about how communities may apply for whistle cessation at crossings that meet federal safety regulations as outlined in the amended Rail Safety Act. Interested communities should contact their local rail company, Railway Association of Canada or Transport Canada about the process. Further information is outlined in the following brochure, available online: http://www.proximityissues.ca/asset/image/reference/brochures/en_community_brochure.pdf NCLGA Membership:

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LATE RESOLUTIONS

According to NCLGA policy, a 2/3rd majority of voting delegates in attendance must vote to consider late resolutions. These resolutions will not be considered until all emergency and regular resolutions have been considered.

LR1: GEOTHERMAL POWER

VILLAGE OF VALEMOUNT WHEREAS geothermal power has the potential to supply clean and sustainable power and heat, reduce the cost of power transmission for BC Hydro, strengthen the power grid by supplying consistent baseload power without transmission line outages and increase the standard of living in remote communities;

AND WHEREAS electricity required for new industries, including proposed pipelines, require firm baseload power resulting in greater loads on the existing transmission system; possibly requiring new diesel generation even as renewable power options are being dismissed;

AND WHEREAS BC Hydro has removed geothermal power production from its latest Integrated Resource Plan while every other developed nation on the Pacific Ring of Fire uses geothermal to generate electricity;

AND WHEREAS inadequacies in the province’s geothermal permitting and leasing process have failed to produce a single operating geothermal power plant:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the provincial government support development of geothermal power in British Columbia, by addressing deficiencies in the province’s geothermal permitting and leasing process, by encouraging GeoScienceBC to survey provincial heat resources, by including geothermal as a resource option in BC Hydro’s Integrated Resource Plan, and by working with BC Hydro to facilitate interconnection and a payment structure that promotes geothermal power.

LR2: STRENGTHENING TELECOMMUNICATIONS INFRASTRUCTURE

VILLAGE OF VALEMOUNT

WHEREAS many communities and First Nations are underserved by the existing telecommunications infrastructure in BC;

AND WHEREAS from time to time utilities or corporations make application to the provincial government for permission to establish new rights-of-ways or new construction on existing right-of-ways on Crown land:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the provincial government require utilities or corporations to lay fibre optic cable in the construction of any new rights-of-way on Crown land or new construction on existing right-of-way on Crown land, in order to broaden and strengthen telecommunications infrastructure around the province.

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LR3: RECYCLING SERVICES IN RURAL AND SMALL COMMUNITIES

REGIONAL DISTRICT OF FRASER-FORT GEORGE

WHEREAS the Minister of Environment approved a Packaging and Printed Paper Stewardship Plan that allows the Producers of packaging and printed paper to achieve a Province wide recovery rate of 75% and the Producers can meet this recovery rate by focusing service delivery in denser and more populated regions of the Province and consequently avoid service delivery in rural and small communities; AND WHEREAS many of the rural and small communities will not have access to collection services even though these communities have retail services that will be paying fees to a stewardship agency in support of the operation of collection services for residential packaging and printed paper products; THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM request that the Minister of Environment amend the Recycling Regulation to require that Stewardship Plans ensure that in any community where a regulated product or material is retailed to a residential consumer that collection services for these same products be made available.

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