2015 UBCM Resolutionsand~Policy/Resolutions/20… · Report of the 2015 Resolutions Committee All...

2015 UBCM Resolutions

5

Resolutions to be Considered at the2015 UBCM Convention

Vancouver Convention CentreVancouver, BC

The resolutions sessions are presently scheduled for:

Wednesday, September 23

Thursday, September 24

Friday, September 25

10:30 am Principal Policy SessionSection A resolutions, and Section B Resolutions (as time allows)

8:55 am Section B ResolutionsResolutions Session continues

8:00 am Consideration of:Report on Resolutions Received After the Deadline Section B Resolutions (as time allows)

All times are subject to change - please check Convention Program to confirm start times.

UBCM 2015 Resolutions Book 69UBCM 2015 Resolutions Book

70

Report of the 2015 Resolutions Committee All resolutions received by the June 30 deadline have been printed in the Resolutions Book and are indexed by both resolution number and sponsor.

Key Issues

Members submitted 166 resolutions by the deadline, a slightly higher number of resolutions than in 2014, but still lower than UBCM was receiving several years ago. Lower numbers of resolutions submitted indicate a focusing of local government interest on selected important issues.

This year, many resolutions were submitted to the five Area Associations prior to being submitted to UBCM—reflecting a trend of increased engagement in the different regions of the province, as compared to earlier in the decade. The Resolutions Committee salutes members for submitting resolutions to their Area Associations for consideration at annual spring conferences, and reminds members that Area Association endorsement lends weight to a resolution when it is later considered at UBCM.

In 2015, members are proposing a broad variety of resolutions that reflect local government contexts and concerns, and respond to provincial and federal initiatives and legislation. Members’ concerns include fire inspection in unincorporated areas; funding for infrastructure and public transit; pipelines; the scope of environmental assessments; the right to a healthy environment; mental health; preparedness and response to hazardous materials spills; and homelessness and affordable housing.

Advance Preparation

The Resolutions Committee is committed to facilitating efficient and effective policy debate. Resolution sponsors should be ready to speak to their resolution and provide information that might assist or clarify the debate. Delegates are

also respectfully requested to limit repetitive debate, in order to make it possible to debate all of the member-submitted resolutions for 2015.

Order of Debate

As in years past, Section A resolutions feature priority issues and will be debated first at Convention. The intent is to highlight key areas of concern around the province.

The majority of the three Convention morning sessions are dedicated to resolutions and policy debate. Nevertheless, completing debate remains a challenge. Because of the number of high-profile issues to be debated, there will be a lot of work to do during Convention policy sessions.

If time constraints prevent all resolutions from being considered, policies enable the Chair to seek member permission to introduce the Section B3 resolutions as a block. If time still proves short, policies ensure that resolutions not considered by the Convention will be submitted to the Executive for appropriate action, and the sponsors advised of the Executive action. Please refer to the Conference Rules & Procedures for Handling Resolutions for more information on these policies.

Resolutions received after the deadline are handled as late resolutions, in accordance with the Conference Rules & Procedures for Handling Resolutions. These are printed in the Report on Resolutions Received After the Deadline, which is distributed to delegates on-site with the Convention registration package.

2015 UBCM Resolutions Committee Councillor Chuck Puchmayr, Chair Chair Art Kaehn, Vice-Chair Director Wendy Booth Chair Jim Abram Mayor Nils Jensen

71

Classification in the Resolutions Book Outlined below are the subject area classifications used in the Resolutions Book. The policies for grouping resolutions into Section A, B1, B2, B3 or C are outlined in Section 18 of the Conference Rules and Procedures for Handling Resolutions, which begin on the following page.

Legislative Resolutions that focus on the Community Charter, the Local Government Act, or other legislation that sets out local government jurisdictions and authorities. Community Safety Resolutions focused on legal matters; provision of court services; police services and associated costs; as well as the general administration of justice, protective and emergency services. Elections Resolutions that request changes in the election process, dates, voting, or procedures outlined in the Local Government Act or related statutes. Transportation Resolutions that request changes to issues related to transportation – e.g. trucking, highways, roads, off road vehicles, bicycles. Taxation Resolutions focused on charges and taxes levied by local governments, revenue from which supports their operations. Finance Resolutions of broad financial impact to local government. These may include federal grants-in-lieu, federal sales tax, fuel tax, infrastructure funding, or provincial funding (e.g. health care, tourism). Assessment Resolutions that relate to property assessment, market value, and changes to the current assessment system. The Assessment Act, BC Assessment, or

assessment appeal boards may be referenced. Environment Resolutions on environmental issues of direct interest to local government, that impact local government operations. Examples include product stewardship, recycling, solid waste management, water and air quality, and streamside protection. Land Use Resolutions regarding planning issues such as housing, parkland, development cost charges, siting, Agricultural Land Reserve, Crown lands, and matters falling under Part 26 of the Local Government Act. Community Economic Development Resolutions regarding regional sustainability and economic development opportunities for local governments, including concerns of resource-focused communities. Regional Districts Resolutions that raise issues or propose changes to the statutory authorities and jurisdictions of regional districts. Health Resolutions that relate to health policy and health services – e.g. capital projects, access and level of service, home support, ambulance service, hospitals, internationally trained doctors. Selected Issues Resolutions of a general nature that are not easily classified in the above sections, or that are of interest to local governments but might not affect them directly.

72

Conference Rules & Procedures for Handling Resolutions General Rules

1. Sessions will begin and end promptly at the scheduled hours.

2. Delegates will use the floor microphones when speaking.

3. All Mayors, Councillors and elected Directors of member municipalities and regional districts attending the Annual Convention of the Union shall be delegates entitled to participate in debates and to vote on any matter before the Convention. Officials of member municipalities and regional districts may attend a Convention as guest delegates and shall not be entitled to the privilege of the floor unless authorized by the Convention and in any case shall not be entitled to vote [Bylaw s. 11]. Guest speakers may be permitted at the discretion of the Executive. [Bylaw s. 14(e)]

4. At all business sessions of the Convention, fifty delegates shall constitute a quorum. [Bylaw s. 12(h)]

Voting Rules

5. Only elected representatives from member municipalities and regional districts are entitled to vote. [Bylaw s. 11]

6. Voting on ordinary resolutions normally shall be by a show of voting cards or by electronic voting keypad, as determined by the Chair.

In cases where the number of votes for or against a motion is difficult to discern using a show of voting cards, the Chair may at his or her discretion call for a vote using electronic voting keypads. The results of a vote using electronic voting keypads are final.

Following a show of voting cards, the Chair’s decision as to whether a motion is won or lost is final, unless immediately upon the decision of the Chair being declared, ten or more voting delegates then present, by standing, demand an electronic vote, whereupon the Chair shall again put the same question to the Convention to be decided by a vote using electronic voting keypads. The results of a vote using electronic voting keypads are final.

In the event that electronic voting keypads are not available or not functioning, the Chair may call for a standing vote, whereupon the Chair shall again put the same question to the Convention to be decided by a count of those standing in favour of and against the motion. In the event that the result of the standing vote is questioned by fifty or more voting delegates then present, or at any time at the discretion of the Chair, the Chair shall order that the matter before the Convention be determined by ballot, and the result of such ballot shall be final. [Bylaw s. 13(a)]

7. Where voting is by ballot, scrutineers shall be appointed by the Chair to distribute the ballot, collect the same, and to count and report the vote. [Bylaw s. 13(b)]

8. In all cases, where the votes of delegates then present, including the vote of the Chair, are equal for and against a question, the question shall be negatived, and it shall be the duty of the Chair to so declare. [Bylaw s. 13(c)]

9. No vote by proxy shall be recognized or allowed. [Bylaw s. 13(d)]

10. When voting by show of hands all delegates shall hold their voting card. In the case of a ballot, the voting card must be presented and initialled by the scrutineers before a ballot is issued.

Rules of Procedure

11. The fundamental principles of Roberts Rules of Order shall govern the proceedings of the Union so far as they may be applicable without coming in conflict with the Constitution and Bylaws. [Bylaw s. 22(a)]

12. The Chair shall enforce order and strict observance of the Bylaws. Subject to an appeal to the meeting sustained by a majority vote of delegates present, the Chair shall have the right to decide all questions of order and the Chair’s rulings in this regard shall be final. [Bylaw s. 22(b)]

13. A delegate wishing to move, second or speak to a motion shall arise and address the Chair and shall wait until he or she is recognized

73

before speaking. The delegate must announce his or her name, municipal or regional office and municipality or regional district or other qualifications each time he or she rises to speak. [Bylaw s. 22(c)]

14. Delegates must confine their remarks to a maximum speaking period of two minutes. The introducer of a motion is permitted three minutes. [Bylaw s. 22(d)]

15. No delegate may speak more than once on any one question unless and until all other delegates desiring to speak have been heard. [Bylaw s. 22(e)]

16. Any amendment and any motion to withdraw any resolution from consideration of the meeting or to refer the same to the Resolutions Committee, or to any other committee, and any motion affecting the resolution must be moved and seconded from the Convention Floor. [Bylaw s. 23(e)]

17. Should discussion continue on any resolution for an undue length of time without reasonable agreement being reached, the resolution may be cleared from the floor by a favourable vote to refer the resolution to the Resolutions Committee for further consideration and report. [Bylaw s. 23(f)]

Handling of Resolutions: Step-by-step Rules

Precedence of Resolutions

18. A special resolution of the UBCM passed in 1982 authorizes the Executive to separate resolutions into three sections and sets out the order in which resolutions will be considered:

SECTION A: Those which will be placed before the Convention for Plenary debate. These are prefixed “A” and are printed in the first section of the Resolutions Book. Section A will feature new issues of interest to all members. Section A may also highlight issues from the Area Associations.

SECTION B: These resolutions will be divided into three categories and shall be brought to the Convention floor with the approval of the delegates after all resolutions in Section “A” have been considered. Such resolutions are prefixed “B” and are printed in the second section of the Resolutions Book.

The UBCM Executive has set the following criteria:

Section B shall be divided into three parts:

Part 1 – Resolutions Supporting Existing Policy

These resolutions include:

• previously considered and endorsed resolutions; or

• resolutions in keeping with the UBCM policy, including previously approved policy papers or other documents.

Part 2 and Part 3 – Resolutions Proposing New Policy

These resolutions include:

• resolutions on topics not previously considered;

• previously considered but not endorsed resolutions;

• topics of local or regional significance; or

• topics of national significance and recommended, as appropriate, for consideration by FCM.

The Resolutions Committee has discretion in classifying these resolutions as:

Part 2: those issues considered within the jurisdiction of local government.

Part 3: those resolutions on matters of interest to local communities that are considered not within the jurisdiction of local government.

Resolutions under Parts 2 and 3 that have not been debated by the Convention will be submitted to the Executive for appropriate action [note that the recommendation is printed in the Resolutions Book] and the sponsors advised of the Executive action.

Part 2 resolutions will be grouped as follows:

a. resolutions recommended to be endorsed or endorsed with proposed amendment, sorted by subject

b. all other resolutions, sorted by subject.

74

Part 3 resolutions will be grouped as follows:

a. resolutions recommended to be endorsed or endorsed with proposed amendment, sorted by subject

b. all other resolutions, sorted by subject.

Section B resolutions will be dealt with on the Convention floor in the order in which they appear in the Resolutions Book.

SECTION C: Those resolutions which have been:

• consolidated or grouped and referred to a similar resolution in Section A or B;

• referred to a Special Resolution to be put forward at Convention;

• incorporated into a policy paper to be presented during Convention; or

• referred to a special session at Convention.

These are prefixed “C” and are printed in the third section of the Resolutions Book and cross-referenced for delegates’ information. Sponsors will be notified of the action taken regarding the resolution with which their resolution was consolidated.

For Resolutions Printed in Section A of the Resolutions Book

19. The Chair will cause the title of the resolution to be dealt with by the Convention to be read.

20. The resolution will after reading be properly before the Convention and will not require a mover or a seconder. [Bylaw s. 23(b)]

21. A spokesperson for the Resolutions Committee will then give the views of the Resolutions Committee together with any suggestions and reasons therefore. [Bylaw s. 23(c)]

22. The Chair shall then call on a delegate from the sponsoring local government to introduce the resolution.

23. The sponsor is permitted three minutes to introduce the resolution.

24. The Chair will then call for discussion from the floor. [Bylaw s. 23(d)]

25. If there are no speakers opposed to the motion, the Chair may call the question.

Discussion shall proceed in accordance with the “Rules of Procedure” (s. 11-17).

Delegates must confine their remarks to a maximum speaking period of two minutes. [Bylaw s. 22(d)]

Voting on the resolution shall proceed in accordance with the “Voting Rules” (s. 5-10).

Voting is on the resolution, NOT on the recommendation of the Resolutions Committee.

For Resolutions Printed in Section B of the Resolutions Book

26. After Section A resolutions have been considered, Section B resolutions may be entered for discussion with the approval of the Convention. [1982 Special Resolution]

Section B resolutions will be dealt with on the Convention floor in the order in which they appear in the Resolutions Book.

They will be divided into three sections: Part 1 – Resolutions Supporting Existing Policy and Parts 2 and 3 – Resolutions Proposing New Policy.

27. The Chair will introduce a motion to adopt the Resolutions Committee’s recommendations for all Section B – Part 1 resolutions as a block.

i) A voting delegate who wishes to have a Section B – Part 1 resolution entered for individual discussion shall, after being recognized by the Chair, put forward a motion to remove the resolution from the block and have the resolution entered for discussion.

ii) If duly seconded, the Chair shall put the question – “Shall the resolution be removed from the block and admitted for discussion?” – and such question shall require a three-fifths majority vote before the motion can be put forward for discussion by the Convention. [Bylaw s. 14(c)]

iii) If the motion passes, then the Chair will remove the resolution from the block and it will be considered immediately following the Section B – Part 1 block of resolutions.

iv) The Chair will ask for the endorsement of the Section B – Part 1 block as amended.

75

v) After the Section B – Part 1 block has been considered, those resolutions removed for individual consideration will be entered for consideration.

28. After Section B – Part 1 resolutions have been considered, the Chair will introduce a motion to enter all Section B – Part 2 and 3 resolutions for consideration in the order in which they appear in the Resolutions Book.

If a delegate wishes to have a Section B – Part 2 or Part 3 resolution removed from discussion he or she shall, after being recognized by the Chair, put forward a motion to withdraw the resolution.

29. If the motion to enter all Section B – Part 2 and 3 resolutions for consideration passes, the Chair will cause the title and “enactment” clause of each resolution to be read by a spokesperson for the Resolutions Committee and consideration will proceed as set out for Section A resolutions (s. 20-25).

In the course of consideration of Section B – Part 2 and 3 resolutions, the Chair will introduce a motion to adopt the Resolutions Committee’s recommendations for Section B – Part 2-a resolutions as a block; and will later introduce a similar motion for Section B – Part 3-a resolutions. Consideration of the B2-a and B3-a blocks will proceed as set out for Section B – Part 1 resolutions (s. 27).

30. In the event of time constraints, the Chair may introduce a motion to adopt the Resolutions Committee’s recommendations for all Section B – Part 3 resolutions (resolutions not within the jurisdiction of local government) as a block. This motion can be amended if there is a resolution in the block that a voting delegate wishes to withdraw for individual consideration, following the procedures as for s. 27. If the motion, or motion as amended, is carried, those resolutions withdrawn from the block will be debated individually after the motion on the block is considered. If the motion on the main block is approved, the recommendations of the Resolutions Committee to endorse or not endorse will hold. Resolutions on which the Resolutions Committee has made no recommendation or has referred, will be referred to the Executive for consideration.

For Resolutions Received After the Deadline

31. Resolutions submitted following the expiry of the regular deadline shall be considered “late” and shall comply with all other submission requirements, except that a copy of the resolution shall be provided to the UBCM by the Friday noon preceding the date of the Annual Conference.

32. Resolutions received after the deadline shall be available for discussion after Section A resolutions have been considered but not before the time printed in the Convention Program for consideration of such resolutions.

33. Resolutions received after the deadline shall be examined by the Resolutions Committee and shall be separated into the following categories:

(a) Emergency Resolutions recommended to be placed before the Convention for Plenary discussion.

(b) Resolutions recommended to be referred to the Executive for appropriate action (note that the Resolutions Committee’s recommendation for action will be printed in the Report on Resolutions Received After the Deadline).

(c) Resolutions not recommended to be admitted for Plenary discussion or to be referred to the Executive.

34. Resolutions received after the deadline are classified as “Emergency” and therefore appropriate for Plenary discussion only if the topic is such that it has arisen since the regular deadline date for submission of resolutions. Resolutions received after the deadline are appropriate to be referred to the Executive if the topic is such that it has arisen since the regular submission of resolutions and, in the opinion of the Resolutions Committee, the topic is noncontroversial and in keeping with UBCM policy.

Resolutions received after the deadline are not appropriate for Plenary discussion or referral if they concern a topic that had arisen or was known before the regular deadline for resolutions.

35. The Chair shall put forward a motion that contains the recommendations of the Resolutions Committee on entering Resolutions

76

Received after the Deadline for discussion which, if duly seconded, will be dealt with as follows: The Chair shall put the question – “Shall the report of the Resolutions Committee and the recommendations therein be adopted?” – and such question shall require a three-fifths majority vote.

36. Only Emergency Resolutions shall be dealt with and they shall be dealt with in the order presented in the Resolutions Committee Report on Resolutions Received after the Deadline.

37. Copies of the Resolutions Committee Report on Resolutions Received after the Deadline shall be produced by UBCM with sufficient copies for distribution to the Convention and the sponsor may be billed for the cost of printing.

38. The Chair will cause the title and “enactment” clause of the Emergency Resolution to be read by a spokesperson for the Resolutions Committee.

39. The Emergency Resolution will after reading be properly before the Convention and the procedures for handling Section A resolutions will apply (s. 20-25).

For Resolutions Not Printed in the Resolutions Book

40. Any delegate may, during a Convention, put forward any motion which, if duly seconded, shall be dealt with as follows: The Chair shall put the question – “Shall the motion before the meeting be admitted for discussion?” – and such question shall require a three-fifths majority vote before the motion can be put forward for discussion by the Convention.

The Chair, at his or her discretion, may require that any such motion be submitted in writing and may require that copies be provided to all delegates present before consideration thereof. [Bylaw s. 14(c)]

41. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Executive may submit any matters not requiring Extraordinary Resolution to any Convention for consideration or action at any time. [Bylaw s. 14(d)]

For Extraordinary Resolutions

42. All resolutions originating at a Convention workshop or seminar (including the regional district seminars) that is not held as a regular Plenary session shall be referred to the Executive unless handled pursuant to s. 40 or 41.

43. AMENDMENTS TO CONSTITUTION: Any amendments to the Bylaws may only be made pursuant to Extraordinary Resolution duly adopted by the Union. [Bylaw s. 19]

44. EXTRAORDINARY RESOLUTIONS: Notice of Extraordinary Resolutions intended to be submitted for consideration shall be given in writing to the Executive Director not later than seventy-five (75) days prior to the date fixed for the Annual Convention, and shall be included in the printed material sent to member municipalities and regional districts by the Executive Director at least thirty (30) days prior to the Convention. A favourable three-fifths majority vote at an Annual Convention of the delegates then present shall be necessary to adopt an Extraordinary Resolution. [Bylaw s. 20]

77

Table of Contents

Section A

Finance

A1 ALLOCATION OF NEW BUILDING CANADA FUND North Cowichan 91

Health

A2 MENTAL HEALTH AND ADDICTION SERVICES Delta 91 AND RESOURCES

Community Safety

A3 PROVINCIAL RESPONSIBILITY FOR FIRE Squamish-Lillooet RD 92 SERVICES ACT AND REGULATIONS

A4 RESOURCING LOCAL GOVERNMENTS FOR OIL Vancouver 93 AND HAZARDOUS AND NOXIOUS SUBSTANCES EMERGENCY PLANNING RESPONSE

Environment

A5 ENVIRONMENTAL BILL OF RIGHTS Richmond 95

Section B1

Legislative

B1 MODERNIZATION OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT Cowichan Valley RD 98

Community Safety

B2 ESTABLISHMENT OF A PROVINCIAL FUND TO Alberni-Clayoquot RD 99 SUPPORT SEARCH AND RESCUE

B3 BRITISH COLUMBIA FIRE SERVICE MINIMUM Bulkley-Nechako RD 99 TRAINING STANDARDS

B4 VICTIMS SERVICES FUNDING Kootenay Boundary RD 100 B5 INTERFACE WILDFIRE PROOFING West Kelowna 101

78

B6 SUSTAINABLE DREDGING OF SECONDARY Delta 102 CHANNELS OF THE LOWER FRASER RIVER

B7 EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT BC FLOOD Stewart 102 PROTECTION PROGRAM

Elections

B8 LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTIONS – Osoyoos 103 INTERNET VOTING

Transportation

B9 PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION IN Vanderhoof 104 RURAL COMMUNITIES

B10 ROAD SAFETY REVIEW AND ASSESSMENT Squamish-Lillooet RD 104 B11 UPGRADING OF CRITICAL ACCIDENT Columbia Shuswap RD 105

ZONES ON HIGHWAYS B12 HIGHWAY SPEED LIMITS Central Okanagan RD 106 B13 INCREASING RAIL TRANSPORTATION SAFETY NCLGA Executive 107

Taxation

B14 TAX INCENTIVES – AFFORDABLE HOUSING Vernon 108 B15 CONSERVATION TAX INCENTIVE PROGRAM Comox Valley RD 109

Finance

B16 PROVINCIAL SALES TAX REVENUE REBATES Lake Cowichan 109 FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT

B17 ROAD RESCUE RESPONDER COSTS Barriere 110 B18 ELECTRICITY COSTS OF Chase 111

RECREATIONAL FACILITIES B19 RAIL CROSSING MAINTENANCE CHARGES Barriere 112 B20 ADDITIONAL USE OF FUNDS COLLECTED Mission 112

IN LIEU OF PARKLAND CONTRIBUTIONS B21 BROADEN THE ALLOWABLE USES OF Delta 113

PARKLAND DEVELOPMENT COST CHARGES B22 INFRASTRUCTURE COST SHARING FORMULA Langley City 114

79

B23 COLLECTION OF UNPAID MUNICIPAL BYLAW Mission 115 FINES AGAINST MUNICIPAL PROPERTY TAXES

Environment

B24 COASTAL DOUGLAS-FIR AND ASSOCIATED Islands Trust 115 ECOSYSTEMS CONSERVATION PARTNERSHIP FUNDING

B25 MANAGEMENT OF UNGULATE POPULATIONS Oak Bay 116 B26 BC CONSERVATION SERVICE CAPACITY Princeton 117 B27 RESIDENTIAL RENEWABLE ENERGY Hudson’s Hope 117

REBATE PROGRAM B28 INDEPENDENT BC REVIEW OF TRANS Vancouver 118

MOUNTAIN EXPANSION PROJECT B29 EXPANSION OF OIL TANKER TRAFFIC IN Sooke 119

COASTAL BC WATERS B30 OIL SPILL PREPAREDNESS Sechelt District 120 B31 OILED WILDLIFE PREPAREDNESS Port Moody 120

AND RESPONSE B32 WATERSHED PROTECTION Peachland 121

Land Use

B33 OWNERSHIP OF ABANDONED North Okanagan RD 122 TRANSPORTATION CORRIDORS

B34 MINISTRY OF ENERGY AND MINES PERMITTING Cowichan Valley RD 123

Community Economic Development

B35 RECREATION SITES Burns Lake 124 B36 RE-EXAMINE LOG EXPORT POLICY Alberni-Clayoquot RD 125 B37 SUPPORT FOR FOREST INDUSTRY Cariboo RD 125

Quesnel Williams Lake 100 Mile House Wells

B38 FOREST INDUSTRY ASSISTANCE Cariboo RD 126

80

Regional Districts

B39 TREE PROTECTION BYLAWS IN IDENTIFIED Courtenay 127 URBAN EXPANSION AREAS

Selected Issues

B40 RURAL TWO TIER HYDRO RATES Mount Waddington RD 128 Port Hardy

B41 PROPOSED CLOSURE OF BURRARD Port Moody 129 THERMAL PLANT

B42 REINSTATE THE MANDATORY LONG Burnaby 129 FORM CENSUS

B43 ICBC AND WINDSHIELD REPAIRS Quesnel 130 B44 POVERTY REDUCTION STRATEGY FOR Terrace 131

BRITISH COLUMBIA B45 SHELTER ALLOWANCES AND RENT SUBSIDIES Fraser Valley RD 131 B46 A BC PLAN TO END HOMELESSNESS Langley City 132 B47 A HOUSING ACTION AGENDA FOR Vancouver 133

BRITISH COLUMBIA B48 PURPOSE BUILT RENTAL HOUSING Maple Ridge 134 B49 EXPIRY OF FEDERAL COOPERATIVE Maple Ridge 134

HOUSING AGREEMENTS B50 FUNDING FORMULA FOR PUBLIC EDUCATION Columbia Shuswap RD 135 B51 GENETICALLY MODIFIED ORGANISMS Anmore 136

Section B2-a

Community Safety

B52 RE-ESTABLISH PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT AS Golden 139 DIKING AUTHORITY IN SMALL COMMUNITIES

B53 HUMAN TRAFFICKING NCLGA Executive 140 B54 PROLIFIC OFFENDERS Chilliwack 140

81

Transportation

B55 BC TRANSIT FUNDING FREEZE LMLGA Executive 141 B56 RAIL CROSSING SAFETY REGULATIONS Langley City 142

Environment

B57 SUSTAINING CLEAN WATER SOURCES Hudson’s Hope 143 B58 HYDROELECTRIC DAM WATER USE PLANNING Vanderhoof 143 B59 BIO SOLID REVIEW PROCESS Thompson-Nicola RD 144

Merritt B60 QUAGGA AND ZEBRA MUSSELS Lake Country 145 B61 HEALTH IMPACT ASSESSMENTS LMLGA Executive 146 B62 COMPLIANCE UNDER THE BC Comox 147

RECYCLING REGULATION

Land Use

B63 CROWN LAND AND PUBLIC MEETINGS Central Kootenay RD 148 B64 REFORESTATION OF PRODUCTIVE Bulkley-Nechako RD 148

AGRICULTURAL LAND


B65 COMMUNICATIONS REGARDING Kent 149 DRAINAGE MAINTENANCE

B66 VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE FUNDING North Cowichan 150 B67 MOUNTAIN PINE BEETLE Bulkley-Nechako RD 151

IMPACTED COMMUNITIES

Health

B68 HEALTH CARE PROVIDER CRISIS Lake Country 151 B69 RURAL OUT-PATIENT ACCOMMODATION Tahsis 152 B70 FUNDING FOR NURSE PRACTITIONERS’ Columbia Shuswap RD 153

OVERHEAD AND OPERATING COSTS

82

Selected Issues

B71 PROPOSED SITE C HYDROELECTRIC DAM Victoria 153 B72 FUNDING PROGRAM FOR LOCAL POVERTY Surrey 154

REDUCTION INITIATIVES B73 WORKERS COMPENSATION ACT PRESUMPTIVE Central Saanich 155

CLAUSE FOR FIRST RESPONDERS

Section B2-b

Transportation

B74 FUNDING FOR ROAD MAINTENANCE Zeballos 157 B75 HIGHWAY MAINTENANCE Vanderhoof 157 B76 ROUTINE HIGHWAY MAINTENANCE LMLGA Executive 158

OVER PIPELINES

Community Safety

B77 DEVELOPMENT OF AN EMERGENCY RESPONSE Powell River City 159 SEISMIC MITIGATION FUND

B78 DISASTER RELIEF Central Kootenay RD 159 B79 WORKSAFE BC CONFINED SPACE REGULATIONS Penticton 160 B80 RAPE CULTURE IN CANADA NCLGA Executive 161 B81 BC EMERGENCY RESPONSE Bulkley-Nechako RD 161

MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

Taxation

B82 INCREASING CORPORATE INCOME TAX RATES Cowichan Valley RD 162 B83 CARBON TAX New Westminster 162 B84 BUSINESS CLASS EXEMPTION Vernon 163

83

Finance

B85 OFFICE OF AUDITOR GENERAL FOR North Saanich 164 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

B86 LAND TITLE FEES Nanaimo RD 164 B87 FUNDING ALLOCATION TO Lumby 165

SMALL COMMUNITIES

Legislative

B88 CHANGE THE REQUIREMENTS FOR North Vancouver District 166 PUBLIC NOTIFICATION

B89 SETTING OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT FEES Williams Lake 167 B90 CHANGE THE POSITION TITLE OF ELECTORAL Kootenay Boundary RD 167

AREA DIRECTOR

Elections

B91 CANDIDATES FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT View Royal 168 ELECTIONS TO RUN IN ONE JURISDICTION ONLY

B92 WITHDRAWAL, DEATH OR INCAPACITY OF AN Quesnel 168 ELECTION CANDIDATE

B93 RECALL OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT Telkwa 169 ELECTED OFFICIALS

B94 CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTION LEGISLATION North Vancouver City 170

Environment

B95 AVERSIVE CONDITIONING OF Elkford 170 URBAN UNGULATES

B96 GEOGRAPHIC SCOPE OF ENVIRONMENTAL Delta 171 IMPACT ASSESSMENTS

Land Use

B97 WAIVING ROYALTIES FOR GRAVEL Stewart 172 EXTRACTION IN FLOOD HAZARD AREAS Kitimat-Stikine RD

B98 MEDICAL MARIJUANA DISPENSARY REGULATION LMLGA Executive 173 B99 REMOVAL OF LANDS FROM AGRICULTURAL Peace River RD 173

LAND RESERVE

84

Selected Issues

B100 CHARGING INFRASTRUCTURE FOR Langley Township 174 ELECTRIC VEHICLES

B101 SUPPORT FOR PRIORITIZING OF RESOLUTIONS AKBLG Executive 175

Health

B102 INCLUDE MARIJUANA DERIVATIVES AND Grand Forks 176 REVIEW ACCESS

Section B3-a

Transportation

B103 FINES FOR FAILING TO STOP FOR A Fort St. John 179 SCHOOL BUS

Health

B104 INCREASE PHYSIOTHERAPY ACADEMIC SEATS Cariboo RD 179 B105 PROSTATE CANCER AWARENESS MONTH Powell River City 180

Selected Issues

B106 ACTION ON TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION Vancouver 181 COMMISSION RECOMMENDATIONS

B107 NATIONAL ORANGE SHIRT DAY Cariboo RD 182 B108 HOMELESSNESS PARTNERING STRATEGY Fraser Valley RD 182 B109 HOUSING FIRST FUNDING New Westminster 184 B110 REGISTERED DISABILITY SAVINGS PLAN Kamloops 184

Section B3-b

Community Safety

B111 NATIONAL INQUIRY ON MISSING AND Victoria 186 MURDERED ABORIGINAL WOMEN

85

Environment

B112 WARNING LABELS FOR ALL FOSSIL BASED Colwood 186 LIQUID FUELS

B113 WILDLIFE ALLOCATION POLICY Fernie 187

Health

B114 NATIONAL PHARMACARE PROGRAM Vancouver 187 B115 ACCESSIBLE BIRTH CONTROL Invermere 188

Selected Issues

B116 FIRE INSURANCE FOR RURAL Central Kootenay RD 189 BC HOMEOWNERS

B117 ASSISTED LIVING SUPPORT FOR Langley City 190 CHALLENGED ADULTS

B118 ANNUALIZED EARNINGS EXEMPTION Maple Ridge 190 B119 HOME RENOVATION TAX CREDITS Saanich 191 B120 DIVESTMENT OF FOSSIL FUEL RELATED Esquimalt 191

INVESTMENTS IN THE MUNICIPAL PENSION PLAN

B121 DOWNLOADED BUILDING CODES Saanich 193 B122 PAYDAY LOAN REGULATIONS Burnaby 194

Section C2 C1 REGIONAL DISTRICT CHARTER Nanaimo RD 197 C2 EXPAND OPTIONS FOR STATUTORY Kelowna 197

PUBLIC NOTIFICATION C3 PROVINCIAL FUNDING FOR POLICE-BASED Alberni-Clayoquot RD 198

VICTIM SERVICES C4 NATIONAL INQUIRY ON INDIGENOUS WOMEN Quesnel 198 C5 RURAL INSPECTION AND ENFORCEMENT OF Bulkley-Nechako RD 199

FIRE SERVICE ACT REGULATIONS C6 REGULAR SYSTEM OF FIRE INSPECTIONS East Kootenay RD 199 C7 FIRE INSPECTION IN UNINCORPORATED AREAS Thompson-Nicola RD 200

86

C8 FIRE INSPECTIONS AND ENFORCEMENT IN Cowichan Valley RD 200 UNINCORPORATED AREAS

C9 FIRE SERVICES ACT AND REGULATIONS Comox Valley RD 201 C10 FIRE INSPECTIONS IN RURAL AREAS Cariboo RD 201 C11 PROVINCIAL TRANSIT INVESTMENT FREEZE Kamloops 202 C12 BC TRANSIT SERVICE EXPANSION FUNDING Sunshine Coast RD 202 C13 ROUTINE HIGHWAY MAINTENANCE Surrey 203

OVER PIPELINES C14 TRANS MOUNTAIN EXPANSION PROJECT Esquimalt 203 C15 INDEPENDENT BC ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW Colwood 204

OF TRANS MOUNTAIN PIPELINE EXPANSION PROJECT

C16 ENVIRONMENTAL BILL OF RIGHTS Victoria 204 Ladysmith

C17 DECLARATION OF THE RIGHT TO A Saanich 205 HEALTHY ENVIRONMENT

C18 DECLARATION OF THE RIGHT TO A Port Moody 206 HEALTHY ENVIRONMENT

C19 DECLARATION OF THE RIGHT TO A North Saanich 207 HEALTHY ENVIRONMENT

C20 REVIEW OF SITE C BY BC Hudson’s Hope 207 UTILITIES COMMISSION

C21 LIQUEFIED NATURAL GAS SITING Skeena-Queen 208 STANDARDS AND BEST PRACTICES Charlotte RD

C22 MARINE-RELATED EMERGENCY Skeena-Queen 208 RESPONSE STANDARDS Charlotte RD

C23 OIL SPILL EMERGENCY RESPONSE Burnaby 209 COORDINATION AND SUPPORT FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENTS

C24 TIMBER SUPPLY Vanderhoof 209 C25 MENTAL HEALTH AND ADDICTIONS DRAIN ON Terrace 210

POLICING RESOURCES C26 MENTAL HEALTH Central Kootenay RD 210 C27 SEAMLESS PATH ALONG THE Maple Ridge 210

RECOVERY TRAJECTORY C28 INCREASE COMMUNITY HEALTH SUPPORTS AVICC Executive 211

FOR MENTAL HEALTH

87

C29 FORTISBC – TWO TIERED RATES Okanagan- 211 Similkameen RD

C30 BC POVERTY REDUCTION PLAN Surrey 212 C31 HOMELESSNESS PARTNERING STRATEGY Maple Ridge 212

FUNDING CRITERIA CHANGE AND IMPACT TO LOCAL SERVICES DELIVERY

C32 WORKERS COMPENSATION ACT PRESUMPTIVE Colwood 213 CLAUSE FOR FIRST RESPONDERS

C33 WORKERS COMPENSATION ACT PRESUMPTIVE Langford 213 CLAUSE FOR FIRST RESPONDERS

C34 WORKERS COMPENSATION ACT PRESUMPTIVE Esquimalt 214 CLAUSE FOR FIRST RESPONDERS

C35 OPTIONAL ELECTRIC Esquimalt 215 VEHICLE INFRASTRUCTURE

C36 IMPLEMENT TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION Cariboo RD 215 COMMISSION RECOMMENDATIONS

Section C3 C37 ICET FUNDING Campbell River 217

Strathcona RD Port McNeill

C38 VANCOUVER ISLAND COORDINATED SOLID Campbell River 217 WASTE STRATEGY Strathcona RD

C39 DISCOURAGING PORT METRO VANCOUVER Richmond 218 FROM EXPANDING ON AGRICULTURAL LANDS

88

Sponsor Index of Resolutions 100 Mile House B37

AKBLG Executive B101

Alberni-Clayoquot RD B2, B36, C3

Anmore B51

AVICC Executive C28

Barriere B17, B19

Bulkley-Nechako RD B3, B64, B67, B81, C5

Burnaby B42, B122, C23

Burns Lake B35

Campbell River C37, C38

Cariboo RD B37, B38, B104, B107, C10, C36

Central Kootenay RD B63, B78, B116, C26

Central Okanagan RD B12

Central Saanich B73

Chase B18

Chilliwack B54

Columbia Shuswap RD B11, B50, B70

Colwood B112, C15, C32

Comox B62

Comox Valley RD B15, C9

Courtenay B39

Cowichan Valley RD B1, B34, B82, C8

Delta A2, B6, B21, B96

East Kootenay RD C6

Elkford B95

Esquimalt B120, C14, C34, C35

Fernie B113

Fort St. John B103

Fraser Valley RD B45, B108

Golden B52

Grand Forks B102

Hudson’s Hope B27, B57, C20

Invermere B115

Islands Trust B24

Kamloops B110, C11

Kelowna C2

Kent B65

Kitimat-Stikine RD B96

Kootenay Boundary RD B4, B90

Ladysmith C16

Lake Country B60, B68

Lake Cowichan B16

Langford C33

Langley City B22, B46, B56, B117

Langley Township B100

LMLGA Executive B55, B61, B76, B98

Lumby B87

Maple Ridge B48, B49, B118, C27, C31

Merritt B59

Mission B20, B23

Mount Waddington RD B40

Nanaimo RD B86, C1

NCLGA Executive B13, B53, B80

New Westminster B83, B109

North Cowichan A1, B66

North Okanagan RD B33

North Saanich B85, C19

North Vancouver City B94

North Vancouver District B88

Oak Bay B25

Okanagan-Similkameen RD C29

Osoyoos B8

Peace River RD B99

Peachland B32

Penticton B79

Port Hardy B40

89

Port McNeill C37

Port Moody B31, B41, C18

Powell River City B77, B105

Princeton B26

Quesnel B37, B43, B92, C4

Richmond A5, C39

Saanich B119, B121, C17

Sechelt District B30

Skeena-Queen Charlotte RD C21, C22

Sooke B29

Squamish-Lillooet RD A3, B10

Stewart B7, B97

Strathcona RD C37, C38

Sunshine Coast RD C12

Surrey B72, C13, C30

Tahsis B69

Telkwa B93

Terrace B44, C25

Thompson-Nicola RD B59, C7

Vancouver A4, B28, B47, B106, B114

Vanderhoof B9, B58, B75, C24

Vernon B14, B84

Victoria B71, B111, C16

View Royal B91

Wells B37

West Kelowna B5

Williams Lake B37, B89

Zeballos B74

90

Section A Resolutions Section A resolutions pertain to new policy matters not previously discussed by the membership, or priority issues that have broad application for all UBCM members. Section A may also contain select resolutions endorsed and forwarded by the Area Associations, on policy matters that have broad application for all UBCM members and highlight issues of concern around the province.

91

Section A

Finance

A1 ALLOCATION OF NEW BUILDING CANADA FUND North Cowichan WHEREAS local governments collect only 8% of total tax revenue in Canada but are responsible for 60% of the infrastructure demands which contribute to the upward spiralling of property taxes;

AND WHEREAS the Government of Canada, through the Building Canada Fund, allocates monies to the provinces that are meant to address the increasing infrastructure deficit and demands, but the Province of BC transfers only 40% of these monies to local government:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM call on the Province to allocate 60% of the Building Canada Fund directly to local government.

NOT PRESENTED TO THE ASSOCIATION OF VANCOUVER ISLAND AND COASTAL COMMUNITIES

UBCM RESOLUTIONS COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION: Endorse

UBCM RESOLUTIONS COMMITTEE COMMENTS:

The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution specifically requesting the provincial government to allocate directly to local governments 60% of the federal New Building Canada Fund monies it receives, to be used by local governments to address infrastructure deficit.

However, the Committee would note that members have consistently endorsed resolutions calling on the provincial and federal governments to provide funding towards the cost of local government infrastructure (2014-B61, 2012-B69, 2011-B34, 2011-B31, 2010-B74, 2009-A1, 2009-B83, 2008-B21, 2008-B117 and 2005-SR1).

Conference decision:

Health

A2 MENTAL HEALTH AND ADDICTION SERVICES AND RESOURCES Delta WHEREAS local governments have been raising concerns in recent years regarding the increasing demands being placed upon police resources and hospital emergency services by people with mental health and addiction issues;

AND WHEREAS people with mental health and addiction issues deserve proper and timely psychiatric and medical care;

AND WHEREAS some municipalities have made repeated requests to the Provincial government to provide adequate resources to deal with people with mental health and addiction issues without seeing any improvements to services or resources:

92

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the provincial government be called upon to develop a long-term, multi-faceted strategy to help people suffering from mental health and addiction issues including integrated health and psychiatric care, criminal justice reform, and access to affordable housing, as a matter of priority within the BC health care system.

ENDORSED BY THE LOWER MAINLAND LOCAL GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION

UBCM RESOLUTIONS COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION: Endorse with Proposed Amendment

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the provincial government be called upon to develop a long-term, multi-faceted strategy to help people suffering from mental health and addiction issues including integrated health and psychiatric care, criminal justice reform, and access to affordable housing, as a matter of priority within the BC health care system;

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that UBCM call on the provincial government to ensure that the level of resourcing and facilities for providing mental health and addiction services are increased throughout the province to allow for improved access and treatment for those suffering from mental health issues, including addictions.


The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions calling on the provincial government to provide improved resourcing and facilities for mental health and addictions services throughout the province (2014-B34, 2013-B52, 2010-B42, 2008-A1, 2007-B89, 2007-B153, 2006-B50, 2006-B51, 2005-B3).

Regarding access to affordable housing, the Committee is aware that UBCM members have consistently endorsed resolutions calling on the provincial and federal governments to work to provide affordable housing for all Canadians (2014-B42, 2014-B43, 2014-B45, 2013-B53, 2011-B67, 2011-B175, 2008-B158, 2006-A2, 2006-B162, 2005-B48, 2005-B50, 2004-B128, 2003-B40, 1994-B85).

The Committee proposes an amendment to the resolution to ensure that once a long-term provincial strategy on mental health and addiction issues is developed, the level of resourcing and facilities are increased accordingly to meet the implementation requirements of such a strategy.

See also resolutions C25, C26, C27 and C28.


Community Safety

A3 PROVINCIAL RESPONSIBILITY FOR FIRE Squamish-Lillooet RD SERVICES ACT AND REGULATIONS

WHEREAS the provincial government has enacted various building and fire code regulations for public buildings, including the Fire Services Act and regulations under that Act;

93

AND WHEREAS the provincial government is considering requiring regional districts to enforce the Fire Services Act and its regulations in the unincorporated areas of the province, including the obligation to provide for a regular system of inspection of hotels and public buildings;

AND WHEREAS regional districts do not have the capacity to take on an inspection and enforcement role in the rural areas without significant additional financial and human resources:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the provincial government provide the resources necessary to inspect and enforce provincial safety regulations, including the Fire Services Act and its regulations, through either the Office of the Fire Commissioner or the BC Safety Authority rather than pursuing options to download the responsibility for inspections and enforcement of provincial regulations on local governments.

ENDORSED BY THE SOUTHERN INTERIOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION



The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting the provincial government to retain responsibility, in unincorporated areas, for inspection and enforcement under the Fire Services Act and regulations, rather than downloading the responsibility onto local governments.

The Committee can advise that UBCM has been represented on an advisory body that has been providing feedback on the development of a comprehensive new policy framework for fire and rescue services in BC with the goal of ensuring that fire safety standards are consistent across the province. UBCM’s representative to the advisory body is First Vice-President, Chair Al Richmond.

UBCM has conveyed the concerns expressed in the resolution to the other members of the advisory body. UBCM wrote to the Honourable Suzanne Anton, Minister of Justice on July 14th to convey our concerns and advise that regional districts do not have the authority, capacity or resources to take on roles with respect to fire inspection or enforcement.

See also resolutions C5, C6, C7, C8, C9 and C10.


A4 RESOURCING LOCAL GOVERNMENTS FOR OIL AND Vancouver HAZARDOUS AND NOXIOUS SUBSTANCES EMERGENCY PLANNING RESPONSE

WHEREAS oil and hazardous and noxious substances (HNS) are being transported through or near communities in British Columbia, and proposals to increase the volume of these substances are currently being considered without adequate consideration for the risks to local communities;

AND WHEREAS the increased transport of these products translates to an increased risk to local communities from incidents such as fires, explosions and spills, with the potential to cause significant impacts to health and safety of citizens, first responders and the environment, and require the involvement of local governments to minimize the consequences to their communities;

94

AND WHEREAS despite their vital role in safeguarding their communities and identifying the local risks and consequences of potential incidents, local governments have not been adequately involved in risk assessment and response planning carried out by industry, project proponents and other tiers of government, and are not sufficiently resourced to participate in the risk assessment and planning process, let alone respond to the impacts of oil and HNS incidents on their communities:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM call on the provincial and federal governments to expand the scope of oil and hazardous and noxious substances (HNS) risk assessment and response planning to include all impacts and consequences on local communities and governments, and introduce additional funding for the resources and locally-specific capacity building required to ensure that local governments are in the best possible position to plan for and protect communities and the environment in the event of fires, explosions, spills and related incidents as a result of increasing transportation of oil and HNS.



THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM call on the provincial and federal governments to expand the scope of oil and hazardous and noxious substances (HNS) risk assessment and response planning to include all impacts and consequences on local communities and governments, and introduce additional funding for the resources and locally-specific capacity building required to ensure that local governments are in the best possible position to plan for and protect communities and the environment in the event of fires, explosions, spills and related incidents as a result of increasing transportation of oil and HNS;

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that UBCM and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities call upon the federal government to develop a comprehensive emergency response plan and procedure for hazardous and noxious substance spill related emergencies that includes due recognition of and compensation for the role of local government emergency response services.


The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting specifically that the provincial and federal governments “expand the scope of oil and hazardous and noxious substances (HNS) risk assessment and response planning” to include all impacts on local communities and local governments.

The Committee notes that members have, however, endorsed resolutions that requested funding to build capacity for local emergency response in the case of oil or hazardous material spills (2012-B122, 2011-B149, 2010-B87, 2008-B32, 2007-B6, 2003-B48).

An amendment is proposed to ensure that the issue of compensation is addressed in cases where local governments provide HNS related emergency response services.

See also resolutions B30, B31, C21, C22 and C23.


95

Environment

A5 ENVIRONMENTAL BILL OF RIGHTS Richmond WHEREAS municipalities and regional districts are the government nearest to people and the natural environment, and therefore share a deep concern for the welfare of the natural environment and understand that a healthy environment is inextricably linked to the health of individuals, families, future generations and communities;

AND WHEREAS fostering the environmental well being of the community is a municipal purpose under section 7(d) of the Community Charter and regional district purpose under section 2(d) of the Local Government Act:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request that the Province of British Columbia enact a provincial environmental bill of rights that:

• recognizes the right of every resident to live in a healthy environment, including the right to clean air, clean water, clean food and vibrant ecosystems;

• provides for public participation in decision-making respecting the environment and access to environmental information;

• provides access to justice when environmental rights are infringed; and • has whistle-blower protection.




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting the provincial government to enact an environmental bill of rights.

See also resolutions C16, C17, C18 and C19.


96

Section B Resolutions Section B resolutions will be dealt with on the Convention floor in the order in which they appear in the Resolutions Book. Section B contains those resolutions which will not automatically be entered for debate but may be brought to the Convention floor with the approval of the delegates after all resolutions in Section A have been considered. The amended UBCM Executive Policies on resolutions state that Section B will be divided into three categories and shall be brought to the Convention floor with the approval of the delegates after all resolutions in Section A have been considered. Such resolutions are prefixed B and are printed in the second section of the Resolutions Book. Part 1—Resolutions Supporting Existing Policy

• Previously considered and endorsed resolutions; • Resolutions in keeping with UBCM policy; or • Resolutions in keeping with other major previously approved policy papers or

documents. Part 2 and Part 3—Resolutions Proposing New Policy

• Resolutions on topics not previously considered; • Previously considered but not endorsed resolutions; • Topics of local or regional significance; or • Topics of national significance and recommended, as appropriate, for

consideration by FCM. The Resolutions Committee has discretion in grouping resolutions from Parts 2 and 3 as:

• Part 2: issues considered within the jurisdiction of local government; or • Part 3: resolutions on matters that are considered not within the jurisdiction of

local government. Section B resolutions that have not been debated by the Convention will be submitted to the UBCM Executive for appropriate action, and the sponsors advised of the Executive action. Note that the recommendation for each resolution is printed in the Resolutions Book.

97

Section B—Part 1

Resolutions Supporting Existing Policy This section contains resolutions that:

• Have been previously considered and endorsed; or • Are in keeping with UBCM General Policy or other major previously approved

policy documents. After consideration of Section A resolutions, a spokesperson from the Resolutions Committee will introduce the following motion: Shall the recommendations of the Resolutions Committee for Section B—Part 1 resolutions be adopted? If the motion is approved by delegates, then the Resolutions Committee’s recommendations for all Section B—Part 1 resolutions will be endorsed as a block. These resolutions will not be debated individually unless there is a motion introduced to specifically consider such a resolution. Such a motion would be: I move that resolution B(x) be removed from the block and be considered separately for debate. Such a motion would be introduced as an amendment to the general motion stated above. If the motion to remove a resolution from the block is approved, the resolution would be considered after the primary motion had been decided.

98

Section B1

Legislative

B1 MODERNIZATION OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT Cowichan Valley RD WHEREAS enactment of the Community Charter in 2003 has created an imbalance of powers and authorities between municipalities and the regional districts in which they participate;

AND WHEREAS many of the regional district powers and authorities provided by the Local Government Act do not adequately address the current realities and complexities of regional governance in BC:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM strongly encourage the Province to act upon its commitment to modernize and harmonize the legislation governing regional districts.

ENDORSED BY THE ASSOCIATION OF VANCOUVER ISLAND AND COASTAL COMMUNITIES



The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions seeking to clarify the authorities assigned to, and improve the relationship between, regional districts and municipalities (2014-B68, 2007-A4, 2007-LR9, 2006-B47).

The Committee understands that the Province amended the Local Government Act in 2012 and in 2014, with the underlying goal of improvements to regional district governance.

The 2014 amendments to the Act achieved the following:

• removed requirement for Ministerial approval for certain regional district land use bylaws, in an effort to streamline the approval process (this had been a request of regional districts for many years);

• removed requirement for Ministerial approval of soil removal and deposit bylaws that include fees (although approval roles for the Ministers of Environment and Energy remain in place); and

• set a “sunset” date of June 30, 2024 for termination of land use contracts in all local governments, with the requirement that local governments implement zoning by June 30, 2022 for lands covered by land use contracts.

See also resolution C1.


99

Community Safety

B2 ESTABLISHMENT OF A PROVINCIAL FUND TO Alberni-Clayoquot RD SUPPORT SEARCH AND RESCUE

WHEREAS capital and non-operational funding for search and rescue (SAR) in BC is not consistent, equitable, or rationally allocated and SAR organizations bear the large administrative burden of applying to myriad sources, including local governments, on an annual basis;

AND WHEREAS a 2012 Coroner’s Inquest jury recommended that Emergency Management BC (EMBC) review and evaluate funding models to better support SAR operations, and in 2013 the BC Search and Rescue Association recommended a new funding model to EMBC that would provide adequate, predictable and sustainable funding through the establishment and management of a provincial fund:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM urge the Province to support the BC Search and Rescue Association’s proposal for the development of a provincial SAR fund, and that the Province undertake necessary consultation with local governments and other stakeholders to develop, establish, and implement the fund as soon as possible.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions requesting that the provincial government fund search and rescue organizations (2013-B5; 2009-B11; 2008-B10; 2006-B17; 1998-B40).

In response to resolution 2013-B5 the provincial government suggested that the gaming grant funding was adequate support for search and rescue organizations and indicated that it had not been made aware of any funding gaps.


B3 BRITISH COLUMBIA FIRE SERVICE MINIMUM Bulkley-Nechako RD TRAINING STANDARDS

WHEREAS the Office of the Fire Commissioner issued the ‘British Columbia Fire Service Minimum Training Standards – Structure Firefighters Competency and Training Playbook’ which establishes the “minimum standards of training required for fire services personnel in British Columbia” in September 2014 applicable to any fire service/department in British Columbia that provides fire services and includes municipal fire departments, volunteer fire departments, and fire departments established as a society under the Society Act of BC.”

AND WHEREAS the ‘British Columbia Fire Service Minimum Training Standards – Structure Firefighters Competency and Training Playbook’ states the “Authority Having Jurisdiction” describes local or regional government and further states that each local government must select and declare its firefighting Service Level in order for the local government to determine which set of minimum standards are to be met.”

100

AND WHEREAS it is the responsibility of each local government to immediately take steps to ensure implementation of the training requirements associated to the Service Level selected;

AND WHEREAS the financial cost to local government to implement the new ‘British Columbia Fire Service Minimum Training Standards – Structure Firefighters Competency and Training Playbook’ Regulations are extremely prohibitive for rural communities and small volunteer fire departments, and may result in the closure of these departments:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Province provide funding for rural communities and small volunteer fire departments to cover the additional costs as a result of the ‘British Columbia Fire Service Minimum Training Standards – Structure Firefighters Competency and Training Playbook’ Regulations.

ENDORSED BY THE NORTH CENTRAL LOCAL GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION



The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions calling on the provincial government to provide funding for fire service training for all communities, particularly small and volunteer fire departments (2009-B63, 2006-B68, 2001-B46, 1996-A2).


B4 VICTIMS SERVICES FUNDING Kootenay Boundary RD WHEREAS the matter of costs to local governments for providing police-based victim services continues to escalate due to the increased demand for the service;

AND WHEREAS the authority for providing victim services for victim’s issues, development of legislation, policies and programs, and for providing training and delivering and funding programs that support victims and their families is the responsibility of the Ministry of Justice Victim Services and Crime Prevention:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM urge the Province of BC, through the Ministry of Justice Victim Services and Crime Prevention, to increase the Ministry’s funding contribution for the provision of victim services with the Province of British Columbia.

ENDORSED BY THE ASSOCIATION OF KOOTENAY AND BOUNDARY LOCAL GOVERNMENTS



The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions requesting that the Province provide funding for victim services programs (2014-B4, 2011-B14; 2010-B12; 2008-B4; 2006-B9; 2003-Victims Services Program; 1996-B43). Provincial responses to the 2014 UBCM resolutions have not yet been received.

101

In response to resolution 2011-B14, which called on the provincial government to assume all responsibility for provision and funding of victim services in BC, the Province re-iterated its position that police-based victim service programs should be cost shared with local governments in communities that contribute to their policing costs.



B5 INTERFACE WILDFIRE PROOFING West Kelowna WHEREAS the Province of British Columbia continues to experience large, aggressive wildfires and in 2014 experienced the third highest fire season (in hectares of land) in the Province’s history, costing an estimated $300 million in response;

AND WHEREAS despite the continuing fire threat, in 2014, the Strategic Wildfire Prevention Initiative – Community Wildfire Protection Plan Program restricted the funding program stream to the development or update of a Community Wildfire Protection Plan and will no longer fund operational fuel treatment activities:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM urge the Ministry of Forests, Lands & Natural Resource Operations to establish, fund and conduct a province-wide wildfire proofing program on public and private interface lands to protect British Columbia’s residents and infrastructure.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions seeking provincial funding for carrying out wildfire proofing activities on public and private interface lands (2013-B116, 2012-B114, 2011-B80, 2008-B59, 2007-B75, 2005-B125).

Resolution 2012-B114 specifically called on the Province to establish a province-wide comprehensive wildfire protection and works program, “funded, executed and enforced for both private and public lands beginning with those lands at highest risk and immediately adjacent to residential areas.” In response to the resolution the Province highlighted its intent to implement the FireSmart Canada program to support “community and landowner participation in wildfire risk mitigation on private lands.” The Province further stated: “FireSmart activities on private lands are best fulfilled at the local government level as a majority of these lands fall under the mandate of local authority. Local governments understand the risk and are best positioned to identify which areas need to be managed within the context of their broader Community Wildfire Protection Plan.” The Province emphasized that the SWPI is for fuel management on public and municipal lands.

The Resolutions Committee understands that in July 2014, with available funding fully allocated, the SWPI stopped accepting applications for fuel management prescriptions and operational treatment projects until further notice. The Committee would observe, however, that in March 2015, the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations announced an additional $5 million for these projects, and applications are again being accepted.


102

B6 SUSTAINABLE DREDGING OF SECONDARY CHANNELS Delta OF THE LOWER FRASER RIVER

WHEREAS there is currently no government agency that has mandated responsibility for dredging the secondary channels of the Fraser River;

AND WHEREAS many businesses and communities along the Lower Fraser River experience economic losses from the on-going accumulation of sediment in local waterways;

AND WHEREAS the foreshore areas and bed of the Fraser River are under Provincial jurisdiction:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Provincial government be requested to develop, fund and implement a long-term, sustainable dredging program for the secondary channels of the Lower Fraser River.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions calling for long-term sustainable funding for dredging, debris traps and flood hazard management, including measures applying to the Fraser River (2013-A2; 2011-B11; 2011-B79; 2010-B8; 2009-B3; 2009-B8; 2008-B12; 2008-B69; 2007-A1; 2006-B18; 2006-B19; 2005-B26; 2004-B18; 2003-B21; 2002-B16).

In response to resolution 2013-A2 the provincial government expressed agreement with the stated need for a regional flood management strategy for the lower Fraser River and indicated that it was prepared to “contribute technical staff time, use of the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations’ (Ministry) Fraser River hydraulic model” and would “consider cost-share funding of priority projects subject to budget availability.”

The Province also indicated that it was working with local stakeholders to develop a strategy integrating “floodplain management (hazard mapping and development planning), structural mitigation (diking and river channel management) and flood emergency planning, response and recovery,” and suggested that other areas of the province might benefit from a similar regional approach.


B7 EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT BC FLOOD Stewart PROTECTION PROGRAM

WHEREAS the majority of communities within the Province of British Columbia are situated in proximity to rivers, streams and water bodies, many within floodplains and upon estuaries;

AND WHEREAS gravel aggregation is well documented;

AND WHEREAS there have been no funds available to these communities, since 2013, to maintain flood prevention measures, the consequences of which could result in increasing risk of future flooding causing significant property damage:

103

THEREFORE be it resolved that UBCM request that the provincial government reestablish the Flood Protection Program.

NOT PRESENTED TO THE NORTH CENTRAL LOCAL GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION



The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions highlighting the need for an integrated approach to flood management and for ongoing funding from the federal and provincial governments for floodplain management (2013-A2; 2012-B4; 2011-B11; 2011-B79; 2010-B8; 2009-B3; 2007-A1; 2006-B18; 2002-B16; 2001-B26; 2000-B24; 2000-LR24; 1997-A7).

In response to resolution 2013-A2, referencing the Fraser River basin as an example, the provincial government indicated that it was “prepared to contribute technical staff time, use of the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations ... hydraulic model,” and that it would “consider cost-share funding of priority projects subject to budget availability.”


Elections

B8 LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTIONS – INTERNET VOTING Osoyoos WHEREAS Local Government Act Part 3, Division 9 – Voting Opportunities – does not allow the ability to offer online voting to electors in local government elections;

AND WHEREAS this additional service provision would assist the general population, especially the elderly, disabled, snowbirds, and those working in camp, to participate in the democratic process;

AND WHEREAS the Province of BC has the recommendations from the Independent Panel on Internet Voting from the report produced in February, 2014:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM requests the Province of BC to initiate the policy analysis and legislative changes required to implement online voting for the 2018 local government election.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership endorsed a similar resolution, 2011-A2, which also requested the provincial government to initiate policy analysis and legislative changes required to implement online voting for the next local government election.

The Committee understands that as part of its Recommendations Report to the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia released in February 2014, the Independent Panel on Internet Voting made four recommendations:

104

1. Do not implement universal Internet voting for either local government or provincial government elections at this time. However if Internet voting is implemented, it should be limited to those voters with specific accessibility challenges. If Internet voting is implemented on a limited basis, jurisdictions need to recognize that the risks to the accuracy of the voting results remain substantial.

2. Take a province-wide coordinated approach to Internet voting. 3. Establish an independent technical committee to evaluate Internet voting systems and

support jurisdictions that wish to implement approved systems. 4. Evaluate any Internet voting system against the principles established by the panel.


Transportation

B9 PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION IN RURAL COMMUNITIES Vanderhoof WHEREAS many rural, resource-based communities do not have public transit or taxi service;

AND WHEREAS the absence of local and intercommunity public transportation causes significant disadvantage to rural residents:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Province of British Columbia provide adequate funding to support local and intercommunity transportation in rural communities.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions seeking improved and increased public transportation options, particularly for residents of small and remote communities (including, but not limited to 2013-B15, 2012-B38, 2012-B115, 2012-C37, 2011-B22, 2010-B21, 2009-B15, 2007-A5, 2007-B13, 2006-SR3, 2006-B20, 2006-B156, 2005-B7, 2005-B84, 2005-LR1, 2004-B55, 2003-B65, 2000-OF).


B10 ROAD SAFETY REVIEW AND ASSESSMENT Squamish-Lillooet RD WHEREAS the British Columbia Road Safety Strategy 2015 and Beyond (2013) states a provincial goal to make roads in BC the safest in North America by “designing a system that is more forgiving of human error… “so that, even if crashes occur, they will not cause fatal or serious injury”;

AND WHEREAS the roads in the Lillooet area were constructed well before the development of modern engineering and safety standards that have been proven to reduce injury and death in the event of a collision and have many sections with steep embankments – unprotected by barrier – as well as extremely narrow unpaved shoulders;

105

AND WHEREAS the British Columbia Road Safety Strategy 2015 and Beyond (2013) identifies the Southern Interior as “by far the most deadly region of the province with about one-third of all motor vehicle related fatalities” and statistics indicate the Lillooet area has a fatality rate of 19% - more than 6 times the average for our region:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, in keeping with our Provincial Government’s identified priority to improve road safety and reduce fatalities and injury, we continue to ask for a thorough review and assessment of roadside safety (including road design and evaluation of roadside hazards) to reduce deaths and injury on BC roads.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions calling on the provincial government to undertake a thorough review and assessment of roadside safety, including road design and evaluation of roadside hazards (2014-B53, 2014-B81, 2011-B84, 2009-B16, 2009-B161, 2008-B114, 2003-B7, 2001-LR1, 2000-B11, 1994-B65, 1992-B20).

The Committee understands that the provincial Safe Roads and Communities Working Group is preparing to conduct a survey of BC communities regarding road safety. The working group will be conducting the survey in the coming months.


B11 UPGRADING OF CRITICAL ACCIDENT Columbia Shuswap RD ZONES ON HIGHWAYS

WHEREAS many section of highways throughout British Columbia are considered critical accident zones;

AND WHEREAS these critical accident zones have serious impacts on the health and safety of the travelling public, enormous economic impacts to the Province, and a significant financial burden on our health care system:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the provincial and federal governments make a long term commitment to increase the level of safety on our highway system by improving proven accident zones as well as highway upgrading to a four (4) lane highway, wherever possible and warranted.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions calling on the federal and provincial governments to undertake upgrades to highways in BC, especially in areas where accidents or other incidents have raised safety concerns (2013-B13, 2009-B16, 2003-B11, 2000-B63, 1998-A1).

106

In response to resolution 2013-B13, which requested the provincial and federal governments to upgrade the Trans Canada Highway to four lanes throughout BC within ten years, the Province referenced funding already committed to four-laning the Trans Canada Highway between Kamloops and Alberta.

The Committee is aware that in March 2015 the Province announced BC on the Move, a ten-year, $2.5 billion transportation plan. Of the twelve priorities identified in BC on the Move, number two is “improving highway safety” and number three is “improving highway capacity and reliability.”


B12 HIGHWAY SPEED LIMITS Central Okanagan RD WHEREAS the safety of rural highways in British Columbia is being questioned by many residents living in rural BC since the ministry of Transportation and infrastructure increased the speed limit on many of these highways to 100 km/hr in 2014;

AND WHEREAS speed limits in rural British Columbia do vary from region to region:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure be requested to formalize a process to allow for the lowering of the speed limit on certain highways that pass through rural communities and neighbourhoods upon receipt of a Regional Board resolution to that effect.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership endorsed resolution 2007-B101, which called on the Province to abide by any local government request to reduce the highway speed limit from 50 km per hour to 30 km per hour in downtown areas. The Committee also notes that members endorsed a related resolution, 2011-B18, requesting that the Province authorize local government to enact bylaws regulating speed, pedestrian crossings, and installation of signs on arterial highways within local government boundaries.

In response to resolution 2007-B101 the Province indicated that it considers speed limit change requests on a case-by-case basis, in the context of “provincial policy, local traffic conditions and engineering studies.” The Province pointed out that the minimum speed limit on numbered highways is 50 km/h. The Province also suggested that concerns about speeding should be directed to the RCMP, citing research findings that “lowering the speed limit by posting a sign does not affect the actual operating speed of motorists unless it is backed up by continuous and intense enforcement.”

Regarding resolution 2011-B18, the provincial government expressed intent to provide “a consistent application of speed zones” throughout the highway system in BC while considering factors such as “highway alignment, design, adjacent land use, pedestrian movements.” The Province expressed doubt that local government would be able to “maintain consistent driver expectation of speed limits across the highway system” and for this reason it would “retain the sole authority of setting speed limits and pedestrian crossings.”


107

B13 INCREASING RAIL TRANSPORTATION SAFETY NCLGA Executive WHEREAS dangerous and hazardous goods are transported by rail through communities daily;

AND WHEREAS current legislation’s historical reporting does not allow first responders to develop accurate, premeditated emergency plans;

AND WHEREAS derailments and container corruptions continue to happen across Canada (Lac- Megantic, Quebec; Gogoma, Ontario; and Vancouver, British Columbia) as newer, safer crude oil tanker design will not be fully integrated until 2025:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM and FCM request the federal government to create a comprehensive national strategy for the rail transportation of dangerous and hazardous goods by 2020, including the following:

1. Mutual cooperation and input from the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs, the Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ National Municipal Rail Safety Working Group, the Transportation Safety Board of Canada, as well as the federal government (specifically, the Ministries of Transport, Industry, Environment, and Health) and all Class 1 Rail Companies (Canadian National Railway, Canadian Pacific Railway, and Via Rail Canada);

2. A security-focused, prevention-based reporting structure to allow first responders and key municipal officials information about dangerous and hazardous goods before they pass through their community;

3. Additional funding for first responders in small, rural communities (under 10,000) to access training in order to effectively deal with dangerous and hazardous goods spills and container breaches; and

4. A strategy to allow for local governments to induce timely inquiries into infrastructure safety after rail derailments or similar failures.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership endorsed resolution 2014-B55 regarding rail transportation safety. The 2014 resolution called for the enactment of federal legislation to require rail carriers to implement Transportation Safety Board recommendations and provide the following to local governments:

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.

108

The Committee noted member endorsement of other resolutions relating to rail safety, including 2011-B149 and 2007-B6. The Committee also expressed awareness that since the Lac Mégantic train accident, FCM and provincial and territorial local government associations have sought action from Transport Canada to take measures that would 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 communities. This advocacy work continues.

See also related resolutions B19 and B56.


Taxation

B14 TAX INCENTIVES – AFFORDABLE HOUSING Vernon WHEREAS the lack of rental housing tax incentives has caused a reduction of investment in rental units, resulting in a decline in the amount of available rental inventory in most cities and towns across the country;

AND WHEREAS many municipalities attempt to address this shortage but are unable to provide the tax incentive required to motivate the private sector to invest in the rental marketplace;

AND WHEREAS the capital cost allowance that was allowed by Canada Revenue Agency on rental units could be applied to reduce an individual’s total taxable income, thereby acting as an incentive towards this type of investment which was recouped upon sale of that asset to another party;

AND WHEREAS the lack of affordable housing and the incidence of homelessness is a growing and complex problem affecting all British Columbians and Canadian communities:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM call on the federal government, through the Federation of Canadian Municipalities and other avenues as appropriate, to re-examine the long term benefits of providing a capital cost allowance to investors in rental projects that can be used where those business losses can be used against other income, including employment income.

NOT PRESENTED TO THE SOUTHERN INTERIOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION



The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership endorsed resolutions 2008-A3 and 2007-A7, both of which called on the federal government to establish tax incentives for investors in rental housing.

The 2008 resolution proposed measures including:

• a National Housing Strategy and complementary Provincial Housing Strategy, to provide a comprehensive plan to address housing and homelessness issues over the long term through the provision of an adequate continuum of housing, income and support;

109

• sustained funding, including the use of surpluses and property transfer tax revenue, to support the development and maintenance of affordable housing for those in need, including non-market housing units; and

• incentives for the private sector construction of new rental housing including low income tax credits, GST exemptions, and capital cost depreciation allowances.


B15 CONSERVATION TAX INCENTIVE PROGRAM Comox Valley RD WHEREAS the Islands Trust has successfully implemented a Natural Area Protection Tax Exemption Program (NAPTEP) which provides 65% property tax relief for landowners who enter into a conservation covenant to protect important natural features on their property;

AND WHEREAS the NAPTEP complements provincial and local programs and policies and does not result in any loss of tax revenue nor any significant additional costs;

AND WHEREAS regional districts and municipalities may wish to support and encourage landowners to preserve natural areas for current and future environmental benefits:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development be requested to grant local governments the authority to implement a conservation tax incentive program modeled on the Natural Area Protection Tax Exemption Program.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership endorsed resolution 2011-B90, which requested that the Province grant local governments the authority to implement natural area protection tax exemption programs.

In its response to the resolution the provincial government expressed willingness to work with regional districts to consider questions such as whether a program modelled on the Islands Trust Natural Area Protection Tax Exemption could be applied successfully in a regional district context.


Finance

B16 PROVINCIAL SALES TAX REVENUE REBATES Lake Cowichan FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT

WHEREAS local governments depend almost wholly on property taxation to fund municipal services and are currently facing infrastructure deficits of enormous proportions;

AND WHEREAS local governments and their taxpayers are unnecessarily burdened with sales tax charges on the purchase of all goods and services that include emergency equipment:

110

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Province be petitioned to provide local governments full rebates of sales taxes on all purchases made, as are provided by the federal government for the goods and services taxes (GST) paid by local governments, with no commensurate reduction of current revenue sharing programs.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership has endorsed resolutions requesting that the provincial government exempt local government from paying provincial sales tax (2006-B21, 2005-B12, 2004- B68).

In response to resolution 2006-B21 the provincial government expressed willingness to consider limited exemptions for local government purchases of specific equipment. However, the Province emphasized that it had “traditionally chosen to support municipal governments in ways other than through sales tax exemptions because exemptions complicate the tax system and set precedents that could ultimately reduce the effectiveness of the tax as an important provincial revenue source.”


B17 ROAD RESCUE RESPONDER COSTS Barriere WHEREAS road rescue responders are not compensated by Emergency Management BC for responses to highway accidents within their jurisdiction;

AND WHEREAS road rescue organizations receive no provincial funding toward general operations;

AND WHEREAS ICBC does not currently contribute funding towards any vehicle accident response costs whatsoever:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that local governments request the provincial government to reconsider their stance on financing road rescue responders throughout the province.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions calling on the provincial government to provide funding for road rescue and vehicle extrication (2014-B15, 2013-B8, 2011-B4, 2010-B6, 2009-B28, 2009-B69, 2009-B88, 2007-B10, 2006-B64, 2005-B4, 2004-B6, 2003-B49, 2001-B6, 2001-B8, 2000-B15, 2000-B16, 1998-B42, 1994-B20, 1993-B40, 1992-B29, 1992-B32, 1988-B20).

The Committee understands that presently, the Provincial Emergency Program (PEP) provides some reimbursement for road rescue services outside a community’s jurisdiction. ICBC, on the other hand, does not accept billings for emergency services from jurisdictions within British Columbia; though ICBC may accept such billings from jurisdictions outside BC. ICBC’s policy in this regard differs from private insurance providers in some other provinces.

111

Further, the Committee understands that ICBC has pointed out that there is no legal obligation for motorists to pay for fire department charges within BC, and ICBC does not collect premiums, either through Basic or Optional insurance, to cover these charges. If the legislation were changed to make BC motorists responsible for fire department charges under Basic insurance, ICBC has stated that an increase to the Basic insurance rate might be necessary. Basic insurance rates are regulated by the British Columbia Utilities Commission and any change requires Commission approval.


B18 ELECTRICITY COSTS OF RECREATIONAL FACILITIES Chase WHEREAS many communities across British Columbia provide for or help fund many different types of recreational facilities both indoor and outdoor;

AND WHEREAS the provision of a variety of recreational facilities adds a very important element to any small rural community by enhancing the physical and mental health of the citizens, while attracting and retaining a diverse population that helps to maintain a vibrant economy;

AND WHEREAS small communities in BC struggle with limited funds available for the provision of ice arenas, swimming pools and curling rinks to name a few;

AND WHEREAS costs associated with electricity to heat, light and run the necessary equipment for recreational facilities are ever increasing, seriously limiting the funding resources of small and rural communities to continue to provide for the important recreational facilities that keep the communities strong:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the provincial government be asked to require that BC Hydro and FortisBC (electricity) provide lower electricity service rates for recreational facilities in small rural communities (under 20,000 population) to assist in preventing the loss of such facilities which will have serious negative impacts on small rural communities.



THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the provincial government be asked to require that BC Hydro and Fortis BC (electricity) provide lower electricity service rates for recreational facilities, to assist in preventing the loss of such facilities which will have serious negative impacts on communities.


The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership endorsed resolution 2009-B86, which urged the Province to eliminate the tiered system of utility rates for local government recreation facilities, given that such facilities promote healthy living and reduce provincial health costs.

112

In response to the resolution the provincial government pointed out that energy utility rates are governed by the British Columbia Utilities Commission (BCUC), and that BCUC’s public reviews of utility applications included opportunities for stakeholders and interested parties to participate and make their views and concerns known. The Province also indicated that at the time, BC Hydro had applied to the BCUC for a new tiered rate for its general service customers, under which recreational facilities would likely fall.

The Resolutions Committee would observe that both smaller and larger local governments face the challenge of meeting the operating costs of civic recreational facilities. The closure of such a facility could impact any community acutely, regardless of population size. An amendment is proposed to reflect this commonality.


B19 RAIL CROSSING MAINTENANCE CHARGES Barriere WHEREAS rail lines in Canada provide a service almost exclusively to large corporate entities;

AND WHEREAS the costs of maintaining safe crossings for the general public throughout Canada should be the responsibility of the corporate land owner as trains have increased in frequency and speeds since they originally divided the lands they cross:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that local governments across Canada band together as a unified voice, by forwarding this resolution to FCM, to lobby for discontinuance of the monthly charges for rail crossing maintenance throughout Canada.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership has endorsed a number of resolutions regarding the costs associated with rail crossing upgrades and how those costs should be apportioned (2011-B82, 2007-B107, 2005-LR2, 2003-B17, 2002-B39).



B20 ADDITIONAL USE OF FUNDS COLLECTED IN LIEU OF Mission PARKLAND CONTRIBUTIONS

WHEREAS the Local Government Act under section 941(4) allows local governments to collect from an owner of land being subdivided monies in lieu of the provision of parkland, which is not to exceed 5% of the land value being proposed for subdivision;

AND WHEREAS the funds taken for this purpose can only be utilized for the purchase of actual parkland and not for the improvement of parkland;

113

AND WHEREAS monies collected in lieu of the provision of parkland are often better spent on parkland improvements such as landscaping, playground structures, etc., for new and/or existing parks:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the provincial government through legislation allow local governments to utilize funds collected in lieu of parkland on subdivision approvals for parkland improvements not just for the purchase of parkland.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions requesting that local governments be granted the option to use funds collected in lieu of parkland dedication for improvement or development of existing parkland (2011-B33, 2009-B23, 2008-B23, 2006-B116, 1994-B78, 1993-B19).

The provincial government has indicated that it consults with stakeholders through the Development Finance Review Committee (DFRC), a standing committee which includes representation from UBCM. Representatives of the development industry have indicated through the DFRC that they do not support such a legislative change, and that they would strongly oppose it. They reason that the costs of maintaining existing parks are not related to the costs of servicing new development.

The Province has pointed out that local governments already have a number of other financial tools available to them to fund park improvements, including Development Cost Charges, which can be used for such purposes as the installation of fencing, landscaping, drainage and irrigation, trails, restrooms, changing rooms, playground and playing equipment. The provincial Parkland Acquisition Best Practices Guide recommends that a local government consider clear guidelines when using DCC’s for parkland acquisition and improvement.

See also related resolution B21.


B21 BROADEN THE ALLOWABLE USES OF PARKLAND Delta DEVELOPMENT COST CHARGES

WHEREAS the BC government has determined that Parkland Development Cost Charges (“DCCs”) cannot be used to fund sport-related park infrastructure such as synthetic turf fields, swimming pools and arenas;

AND WHEREAS municipalities can use Parkland DCCs to provide fencing, landscaping, drainage and irrigation, trails, rest-rooms, changing rooms and playground and playing field equipment;

AND WHEREAS there is tangible evidence that new development directly impacts the demand for sport-related park infrastructure through increased attendance at municipal recreation facilities and increased demand for playing time on municipal sports fields:

114

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the BC government be requested to approve an amendment to Section 935(3)(b)(ii) of the Local Government Act to include sport-related park infrastructure as an applicable Parkland DCC capital cost.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions requesting that the provincial government amend section 935.3(b)(ii) of the Local Government Act to enable local governments to use revenues from parkland development cost charges to fund sport-related park infrastructure (2010-B23, 2007-B38, 2007-LR11, 2003-B19).

In response to the 2010 resolution, the Province indicated that it consults with stakeholders through the Development Finance Review Committee (DFRC), a standing committee which includes representation from UBCM. At the time, the DFRC position was that development cost charges (DCCs) were appropriate only where new development required key infrastructure (sewer, water, drainage, roads and parks) for the development to proceed. Similarly, the DFRC agreed that park improvements to be partially paid for by DCCs were intended to be basic improvements to make parkland usable for both new development and existing residents. No legislative changes were planned to expand the use of DCCs or the park improvement provisions.



B22 INFRASTRUCTURE COST SHARING FORMULA Langley City WHEREAS local governments have historically acknowledged the economic value of transportation infrastructure projects of national and regional importance and participated in cost sharing initiatives with other orders of government (provincial and federal) through a one-third/one-third/one-third formula relationship;

AND WHEREAS the assignment of one-third local cost absorption has greater per capita impact to residents of local regions with smaller populations;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the federal and provincial governments be requested to assess the per capita impact of nationally and regionally valued transportation infrastructure and to revise the current one-third/one-third/one-third formula to reflect the inequities for smaller communities with identified essential projects within their boundaries.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions seeking increased flexibility within grant or funding programs regarding matching funds or local contributions from local governments (2014-B19, 2012-B13, 2009-B29, 2004-A7, 2000-B12).

115

In response to resolution 2014-B19 the provincial government acknowledged local governments’ concerns about infrastructure needs and financing mechanisms.


B23 COLLECTION OF UNPAID MUNICIPAL BYLAW FINES Mission AGAINST MUNICIPAL PROPERTY TAXES

WHEREAS the Community Charter under section 258(1) presently allows municipalities to recover special fees as property taxes when the fees are related to “work done or services provided to land or improvements” or when the fees are related to “fire and security alarm systems”;

AND WHEREAS there are significant costs associated with collecting outstanding municipal fines, such as those related to noise, parking and nuisance infractions, and in many cases the collection of these unpaid fines through either a collection agency or small claims court proves unsuccessful in part due to an overloaded court system:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the provincial government allow municipalities through legislation to collect unpaid municipal bylaw fines through property taxes where the fines are property related.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions seeking improvements to the collection of property-related municipal bylaw fines (2009-B1, 2007-B81, 2003-A3, 2002-B5, 2000-B17). Resolution 2003-A3 specifically sought local government authority to add unpaid fines to the property tax roll, where appropriate, for property-related violations.

In response to resolution 2003-A3 the provincial government expressed willingness to “look at the issue of collections and whether there is a need for more, or more effective tools and what those tools might be.”

The Committee would clarify that the statute referenced in the preamble of this resolution applies solely to municipalities, and not to regional districts.


Environment

B24 COASTAL DOUGLAS-FIR AND ASSOCIATED Islands Trust ECOSYSTEMS CONSERVATION PARTNERSHIP FUNDING

WHEREAS the UBCM members previously endorsed resolution 2013-B104 requesting that the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations adequately resource the Coastal Douglas-fir and Associated Ecosystems Conservation Partnership (the Partnership);

116

AND WHEREAS in 2015 the Partnership will issue a 30-year conservation strategy for the coastal douglas fir biogeoclimatic zone, the most at risk zone in British Columbia, but has insufficient resources to implement the strategy:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request the provincial government to provide core, multi- year funding to the Partnership to assist its members to implement the conservation strategy with the Province, First Nations, local governments, the federal government, stakeholders, and the general public.




The Resolutions Committee acknowledges that as stated by the sponsor, the UBCM membership endorsed resolution 2013-B104, calling on the provincial government to provide adequate resources to the Coastal Douglas- fir and Associated Ecosystems Conservation Partnership.

In response to the resolution the provincial government indicated that it was working with local government, private landowners and environmental groups to assess and manage the Coastal Douglas-fir zone. In addition, the Province highlighted its $3,000 contribution towards the organizational development and outreach activities of the Coastal Douglas-fir and Associated Ecosystems Conservation Partnership.


B25 MANAGEMENT OF UNGULATE POPULATIONS Oak Bay WHEREAS the resources, authority and responsibility to manage ungulate populations is with the Province of British Columbia;

AND WHEREAS the combination of favourable habitats, no natural predators, and the inability to allow hunting have contributed to expanding urban deer populations and exacerbated the problem of human- deer conflict in urban areas:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Province of British Columbia provide resources, including conservation officers and urban wildlife biologists, and build the necessary partnerships with Health Canada and local governments to address deer over population.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions calling on the provincial and federal governments to establish partnerships and provide greater resources to address wildlife populations in urban and agricultural areas, including deer (2013-B27, 2013-B74, 2012-B21, 2012-B72, 2012- B105, 2010-B25, 2003-B32).

117

Resolution 2013-B27 in particular called on the Province to provide “adequate funding to effectively manage and mitigate the impacts of urban wildlife and in particular ungulates.” In its response to the resolution the provincial government expressed interest in working with local government to develop “socially acceptable urban deer management solutions.”

The Committee is aware that to this end, UBCM and provincial staff in January 2015 organized a two-day workshop on the issue of urban deer. Recommendations arising from the workshop were circulated to affected communities for comment and submitted to the provincial government in May.



B26 BC CONSERVATION SERVICE CAPACITY Princeton WHEREAS the provincial government is responsible for managing wildlife through its Conservation Service, and the British Columbia Conservation Service has not been able to adequately address wildlife- human conflict in the town of Princeton due to lack of facility;

AND WHEREAS the Town of Princeton is unable to appropriately respond to wildlife-human conflict, as their role is to educate residents on how to deter wildlife and limit wildlife attractants:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the provincial government be requested to provide adequate funding and staffing in order for the BC Conservation Service to be more active and proactive in effectively managing wildlife-human conflicts.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions calling on the provincial government to increase numbers of conservation officers and resources to support wildlife management (2013-B27; 2012-B21; 2012-B72; 2010-B25; 2003-B32; 1996-B27; 1996-B64; 1992-B35).

In response to resolution 2012-B21, which specifically requested increased provincial funding and staffing of the BC Conservation Service, the provincial government indicated that it would “maintain its current level of service delivery through officers working in the larger geographic area, as well as collaborative initiatives with other law enforcement agencies.”


B27 RESIDENTIAL RENEWABLE ENERGY Hudson’s Hope REBATE PROGRAM

WHEREAS demand for electricity is expected to increase in the future;

AND WHEREAS renewable technologies such as small scale wind and solar are becoming increasingly feasible:

118

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM call on BC Hydro and the Province of BC to work together to develop a framework that would provide incentives to residential customers to install grid-interactive renewable generation systems.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership endorsed resolution 2009-B166, which called on the provincial government to provide incentives to “encourage new construction to be pre-plumbed and pre-wired for future solar panels or other alternative energy installations.”

In its response to the resolution the Province indicated that it had been working to introduce regulations under the BC Building Code that would “allow local governments to adopt solar-ready requirements for single family homes.” At the time, the Province expected to be able to finalize the regulatory changes and adopt the new regulations in 2010.

The Committee is also aware that in 2011 the Province introduced a Solar Hot Water Regulation. Communities can choose to adopt this regulation, and to date 48 local governments have done so. The regulation applies to new single family homes and new single family homes with a secondary suite. There are no incentives associated with the Solar Hot Water Regulation.


B28 INDEPENDENT BC REVIEW OF TRANS MOUNTAIN Vancouver EXPANSION PROJECT

WHEREAS the current National Energy Board (NEB) assessment of the Trans Mountain Expansion Project has proven to be deeply flawed and undemocratic;

AND WHEREAS the Union of BC Municipalities endorsed the City of Victoria’s emergency resolution LR2 in September 2014 calling on the Environmental Assessment Office of the Province of British Columbia to undertake its own environmental assessment process of the Trans Mountain Expansion Project and withdraw from the 2010 Equivalency Agreement with the NEB, but no response has been received to date from the Province;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that in response to 2014 UBCM resolution LR2, the Province of British Columbia withdraw from the 2010 Equivalency Agreement with the National Energy Board and undertake its own environmental assessment process of the Trans Mountain Expansion Project, with meaningful participation by First Nations, local governments and all interested British Columbians.




The Resolutions Committee acknowledges that as stated by the sponsor, the UBCM membership endorsed resolution 2014-LR2, calling for the BC Environmental Assessment Office to withdraw from the 2010 Equivalency Agreement with the National Energy Board and instead undertake its own environmental assessment of the Trans Mountain Expansion Project.

119

In response to resolution 2014-LR2, the provincial Environmental Assessment Office emphasized BC’s five conditions for any heavy oil pipeline:

• Successful completion of an environmental assessment; • Establishment of world-leading marine oil spill response, prevention and recovery systems for

BC’s coastline and ocean; • Establishment of world-leading land oil spill prevention, response and recovery systems; • Legal requirements regarding Aboriginal and treaty rights are addressed and First Nations

are provided with the opportunities, information and resources to participate and benefit from the project; and

• BC receives a fair share of the fiscal and economic benefits.

The Province also referenced its role as intervenor in the NEB’s review of the project, filing information requests and meeting with Kinder Morgan. The Province pointed out that the National Energy Board sets the process for the reviews it conducts.

In April 2015, UBCM met with the National Energy Board to discuss local government concerns regarding pipeline safety, environmental protection and related infrastructure. At the time, the Chair of the NEB expressed interest in participating in the 2015 UBCM Convention in order to consult with BC local governments regarding concerns with the National Energy Board and equivalency agreements.

See also resolutions C14 and C15.


B29 EXPANSION OF OIL TANKER TRAFFIC IN COASTAL BC WATERS Sooke WHEREAS the result of the District of Sooke assent voting opportunity (community opinion) on November 15, 2014 was in the affirmative that the District of Sooke should join other municipalities in renewing and restating its opposition to the expansion of oil tanker traffic through British Columbia’s coastal waters:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities continue to petition the provincial and federal governments to stop the expansion of oil tanker traffic through British Columbia's coastal waters.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions opposing expansion of oil tanker traffic on the BC coast (2012-A8, 2010-B139, 2010-B140, 2008-B143).

In response to resolution 2012-A8 the provincial government referenced its technical analysis “Requirements for British Columbia to Consider Support for Heavy Oil Pipelines,” the “key condition” of “world leading marine spill preparedness and response systems,” and 11 recommendations for BC to achieve that standard.


120

B30 OIL SPILL PREPAREDNESS Sechelt District WHEREAS the oil spill event of April 8, 2015, into English Bay and the Salish Sea, demonstrated a clear lack of capacity to respond to oil spill events in British Columbia;

AND WHEREAS the long-term viability and economies of BC coastal communities are dependent, in part, upon the protection and preservation of the local marine environment:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request that the Province of British Columbia order an independent audit of the current state of oil spill preparedness in BC.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the degree of preparedness for oil spills in BC is a long-standing concern of UBCM members, with the membership endorsing resolutions 2014-LR3, 2000-LR2, 1989-B22 on the topic.

Resolution 2014-LR3 in part called on the provincial government to “conduct a full assessment of the response plans, tactics, equipment and capacity currently available within the Province of BC to respond to sunken or submerged oil.”

In response to the 2014 resolution the Province highlighted a recent intentions paper outlining a proposed strengthened spill response regime, and indicated that a public consultation process had accompanied release of the intentions paper.

See also related resolutions A4 and B31.


B31 OILED WILDLIFE PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE Port Moody WHEREAS an oil spill can harm wildlife and have a significant impact on the health and economy of our communities and the natural environment;

AND WHEREAS existing legislative and administrative frameworks do not provide for wildlife response preparedness or remediation, nor require professional wildlife response in the event of oil spills on land or in the marine environment;

AND WHEREAS there are no designated oiled wildlife response services or facilities in BC;

AND WHEREAS UBCM has already put forth resolutions on the need for improved spill response systems, including related to wildlife rescue, and funding mechanisms, but requested action has not been taken:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Province of BC urge the federal government to establish adequate oiled wildlife response capacity and capability for marine spills;

121

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the federal government and the Province of BC, in consultation with local governments, enact a mandated and coordinated regime that requires that wildlife response be included in oil spill response preparedness, that wildlife response and recovery, and remediation be part of standard response activities for marine and land-based oil spills and that funds to undertake these activities be collected from industry in accordance with the polluter pay principle.

NOT PRESENTED TO THE LOWER MAINLAND LOCAL GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION



The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership endorsed resolutions 2008-B32 and 2007-B173, which called on the provincial and federal governments to:

1. enact legislation to require wildlife rescue and ecosystem recovery be part of standard oil spill response activities either on land or in water;

2. explore appropriate measures to streamline governmental responsibilities in spill events; 3. enact legislation to require payment of those costs attributable to wildlife rescue and

ecosystem recovery caused by spill events to be borne by the Responsible Party; and 4. explore the feasibility of a Liability Trust Fund to provide funding for spill event remediation

when the Responsible Party cannot be identified or held accountable.

In response to the 2008 resolution the provincial government referenced amendments to the Environmental Management Act, consideration of the creation of a Contingency Fund for spill response in cases where the polluter cannot pay, and development of an oiled wildlife response plan in consultation with the Canadian Wildlife Service and other stakeholders.

The federal Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities in response to the 2008 resolution highlighted the Ship-Source Oil Pollution Fund, an independent domestic compensation fund established under the Marine Liability Act.

See also related resolutions A4 and B30.


B32 WATERSHED PROTECTION Peachland WHEREAS it has long been recognized that water is a public trust, and the protection and control of local water resources requires adequate tools to enable local authorities to enact measures for protection of watersheds;

AND WHEREAS the modernization of the Water Act has not yet progressed to a point where regulations are in place to enable local authorities to enact such measures necessary in order to adequately protect their watersheds;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request that the Ministry of Environment proceed with the necessary steps to create regulations that will establish an increased local role in key decision making in matters affecting the health and protection of watersheds, including the right for local watershed authorities to be the agencies responsible for approvals and controls of activities in watersheds.

122




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership endorsed resolution 2014-B88, which in part requested that the provincial government ensure that the new Water Sustainability Act:

• increases the local role in key decisions affecting the health of watersheds; and • establishes a meaningful role for local government, First Nations, and local watershed

authorities regarding approvals and control.

In response to the 2014 resolution the Province indicated that provisions of the new Act would “enable plans to be developed and implemented to prevent or address conflicts between water use and ecosystem health,” and that new governance tools would be developed to support this. Overall, the provincial government suggested that the new Act would “allow for greater participation in decision processes.”

The Committee is also keenly aware that UBCM members have consistently endorsed resolutions related to protection of community watersheds, including pesticide spraying, logging activities, and requests for greater local authority over what activities take place within a watershed (1988-A26; 1989-A18; 1990-A17; 1996-B13; 1998- B65; 1999-B63; 2004-B84; 2004-B85; 2004-OF; 2005-B27; 2006-B102; 2007-B26; 2007-B42; 2007-B122; 2008- B27; 2008-B35; 2009-B136; 2010-B26; 2010-B81; 2010-B85; 2010-B88; 2011-B43; 2011-B96; 2011-B129; 2011- B152; 2012-B24; 2012-B77; 2012-B118; 2012-B119; 2012-B120).


Land Use

B33 OWNERSHIP OF ABANDONED North Okanagan RD TRANSPORTATION CORRIDORS

WHEREAS transportation corridors are vital to the transportation of goods and people throughout the province;

AND WHEREAS some corridors are being abandoned, especially some rail corridors;

AND WHEREAS these abandoned transportation corridors can become vital and valuable corridors for recreational uses such as hiking, cycling, skiing and snowshoeing;

AND WHEREAS these corridors should be open to all residents of BC:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the provincial government facilitate public acquisition and ownership of abandoned transportation corridors;

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Province work with UBCM to develop a funding mechanism – for example, a province-wide parcel tax similar to the Municipal Finance Authority tax – to assist governments or community groups to purchase and maintain abandoned transportation corridors for public recreational use.

123




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership endorsed resolution 2014-B117, which made the same requests of the provincial government.

In response to the resolution the provincial government indicated that where it “declines to acquire abandoned rail corridors for public purposes and where communities want to acquire the corridor,” it will “consider opportunities to work with local governments to explore options for acquisition.”


B34 MINISTRY OF ENERGY AND MINES PERMITTING Cowichan Valley RD WHEREAS the Ministry of Energy and Mines considers and approves applications for the purpose of “extracting” sand and gravel resources;

AND WHEREAS local governments regulate land uses, such as “processing” of resources, as authorized by the Local Government Act and Community Charter;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request that the Minister of Energy and Mines direct the Ministry to require compliance with local government zoning bylaws as a permit condition, and order Ministry staff to cancel any permits and deny any applications that contravene duly authorized local government zoning bylaws.



THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Province work with local governments to identify solutions that will address the long-standing conflict between the aggregate industry and local governments, similar to the bylaw enacted by the Fraser Valley Regional District.


The Resolutions Committee notes that concerns around resource extraction (i.e., pits and quarries) have been long-standing for many local governments. In 1995, UBCM members endorsed resolution B65, which requested the provincial government adopt legislation directing that the Ministry of Energy and Mines adhere to local government planning bylaws when considering the authorization of extraction of sand and gravel.

As well, in 2000, members endorsed B25 which requested amendments to the Local Government Act, Mines Act and other related provincial legislation to provide clear local government regulatory authority over the location and operation of quarry and gravel operations as "land uses" within local bylaws which are open to public consultation and not subject to ministerial approval.

Over the years, various guides, initiatives and reviews have assessed ways to address local government concerns. The Province established an Aggregate Review Panel in 2001 to specifically review the issue of aggregate extraction, and UBCM provided input into the Panel’s consultation

124

process. In the same year, UBCM members endorsed resolution B86 asking the Province to enact legislation to implement the recommendations in the "Report of the Aggregate Advisory Panel, March, 2001". As recently as 2011 members endorsed resolution B46, requesting the Province to work with local governments, the extraction industry, and residents on regional plans which identify suitable and unsuitable sites for extraction; and requesting provincial financial support for completing regional plans and authority for local governments to implement them.

The Committee is aware that after years of extensive research, consultation and engagement with the aggregate industry and other interested parties, the Fraser Valley Regional District developed a bylaw seeking to strike a balance between the need to mitigate the off-site impacts of commercial gravel operators while at the same time supporting a viable and sustainable commercial aggregate industry. The bylaw, at time of writing, is presently awaiting ministerial approval. The approach adopted in the Fraser Valley may be a model that could be applied in other communities.



B35 RECREATION SITES Burns Lake WHEREAS provincial recreation sites are frequently over capacity during summer months, and have fallen into disrepair;

AND WHEREAS sites are maintained by volunteer groups which are drastically underfunded:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request the Province of British Columbia to provide funding for the improvement and maintenance of all provincial recreation sites within British Columbia.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions calling on the provincial government to provide funding for improvement and maintenance of provincial recreation sites (2010- B41, 2003-B28, 2003-B94, 2002-B84).

The most recent of these resolutions, 2010-B41, requested that the provincial government “ensure that it provides additional funding for the maintenance and upgrading of recreation sites to enhance and promote economic development through tourism.”

In its response to the resolution the provincial government acknowledged “the valuable social, economic and environmental contributions that recreation sites and trails provide to communities throughout British Columbia.” The Province highlighted as successes its leveraging of additional funding from federal and local governments; as well as the development of partnership agreements with local organizations to maintain recreation sites and trails. Ultimately, however, the provincial government indicated that “funding for managing recreation sites and trails is limited in the current fiscal environment.”


125

B36 RE-EXAMINE LOG EXPORT POLICY Alberni-Clayoquot RD WHEREAS coastal log exports increased 65% by volume from 2010 levels to 6,348,674 m3 in 2013 and the coast represents 90.6% of total log export volume in the province of BC;

AND WHEREAS the coastal forest industry has grown dependent upon log exports with unintended consequences to the manufacturing sector:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request that the provincial government re-examine the Log Export Policy and the impact this policy has on the coastal forest industry, and that the provincial government investigate options for modifying the Log Export Policy in light of the increased coastal log exports over the last several years.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions opposing expansion of raw log exports (2012-B33, 2007-B44, 2007-B45, 2007-B179, 2003-B27, 2001-B31, 1992-B33).

In its response to resolution 2012-B33 the provincial government indicated that it was at the time engaged in a review of log export policy and would “take measures as necessary to ensure that domestic mills continue to have access to wood advertised for export prior to exports being approved.”


B37 SUPPORT FOR FOREST INDUSTRY Cariboo RD Williams Lake Quesnel 100 Mile House Wells

WHEREAS the forest industry continues to be an economic mainstay of the province, providing stable employment for tens of thousands of families, and contributing $12.4 billion to provincial GDP and $2.5 billion in taxes and fees to the three levels of government;

AND WHEREAS the competitive advantage of the British Columbia forest industry has been eroded by cumulative impacts including timber supply declines, uncertainty on the land base, and delays in provincial market pricing processes;

AND WHEREAS these cumulative impacts threaten the economic well-being of communities throughout British Columbia:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM call upon the Province to deliver the full allowable cut under the BC Timber Sales program, complete a science-based inventory of the available timber supply, and move assertively to increase operating certainty on the working forest land base.


126



The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions calling on the provincial government to undertake specific actions and policy review in order to support the continued viability of the forest industry in BC (2012-B33, 2011-B57, 2010-B98, 2010-B104, 2010-B105, 2009-A5, 2009-B47, 2009- B48, 2009-B131, 2007-B41, 2007-B42, 2007-B44, 2007-B179, 2006-B43, 2006-B148, 2005-B32, 2005-B33, 2005- B35, 2005-B125, 2005-B126, 1998-B75, 1992-B33).

See also related resolutions B38, B67 and C24.


B38 FOREST INDUSTRY ASSISTANCE Cariboo RD WHEREAS the forest industry has long been the backbone of the Cariboo/Chilcotin economy and a significant contributor to provincial revenues;

AND WHEREAS the effects of the mountain pine beetle, exacerbated by climate change, have resulted in significant reductions in the available fibre supply leading to reductions in the Annual Allowable Cut available for harvesting of up to 60%;

AND WHEREAS remote stands of dead pine that cannot be economically harvested with the normal silviculture requirements means they will be left standing dead for decades to come rather than return to healthy, productive forest land;

AND WHEREAS dead stands returned to healthy, live forests improve air quality by removing carbon emissions, thereby improving our overall environment;

AND WHEREAS implementing the type 4 silviculture plan with adequate funding to ensure that those stands that are uneconomical for industry to harvest and replant are brought back into productive capacity as quickly as possible, through increased funding of the Land Base Investment Funding and the Forests for Tomorrow funding are imperative to the region’s continued ability to prosper and support provincial initiatives by keeping secure, well-paying jobs that contribute to the local and provincial economies, and that allow healthy families to remain in rural communities to support community amenities such as parks, libraries and schools:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the UBCM call on the provincial government to support the Type 4 silviculture strategies and provide the funding to support those strategies (including planting, spacing, pre-commercial thinning, fertilization, rehabilitation of dead pine stands uneconomical to harvest) by increasing the funding allotment for Land Base Investment and Forests for Tomorrow specifically for those areas impacted by the Mountain Pine Beetle infestation.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership has endorsed resolutions proposing silviculture strategies to improve and enhance forest resource management (2009-B131, 1992-B33).

127

In response to the 2009 resolution the provincial government referenced existing programs managed by BC Timber Sales, Forests for Tomorrow and Wildfire Management Branch, including:

• BC Timber Sales alternative approaches to reforesting marginal (small diameter) beetle-killed stands by tendering Innovative Timber Sale Licenses;

• Forest Licenses to Cut issued by Forests for Tomorrow, to harvest timber for bio-energy and make areas ready for planting; and

• Wildfire Management Branch and Ferric FP Innovations Wildland Fire Operations Research Group exploration of using fibre from fuel hazards for bioenergy generation or pellet production.



Regional Districts

B39 TREE PROTECTION BYLAWS IN IDENTIFIED URBAN Courtenay EXPANSION AREAS

WHEREAS regional districts are prohibited by law from creating tree protection bylaws;

AND WHEREAS unincorporated areas of regional districts include working forests, which are regulated provincially both on public and private land, precluding local or regional regulation:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM call on the Province to permit regional districts to institute tree protection bylaws in identified urban expansion areas.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership endorsed resolution 2003-B41, which requested that the provincial government amend the Local Government Act to grant regional districts the authority to enact tree protection bylaws. Reasons for such bylaws might be environmental protection against soil erosion and mudslides, or documented local, historical or ecological significance.

In response to resolution 2003-B41 the provincial government suggested that the Local Government Act already provided “considerable scope for regional districts to use development permit powers to deal with environmental protection and hazard protection issues.”


128

Selected Issues

B40 RURAL TWO TIER HYDRO RATES Mount Waddington RD Port Hardy

WHEREAS BC Hydro has adopted a two tiered rate structure to encourage energy consideration with the lower rate threshold based on approximately 90% of the provincial median household consumption of electricity and this average is weighted from the consumption patterns of two-thirds of BC households that are able to use natural gas for their heating, hot water and cooking energy requirements;

AND WHEREAS the BC Utilities Commission (BCUC) reduced the upper price threshold charged by BC Hydro from the requested 1600 kilowatt hours to 1350 kilowatt hours for the bi-monthly billing period and most households in rural and remote communities do not have access to natural gas and cannot reduce their consumption by conservation measures sufficiently to avoid the higher tiered rate:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the BC Utilities Commission review the BC Hydro residential electrical tariff structure and increase the amount of kilowatt hours that qualify for the lower rate in all areas that do not have natural gas service.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership endorsed resolution 2013-B85, which asked the provincial government to review the impact of a tiered electricity rate structure on low-income British Columbians. The resolution further requested that if the rate structure review revealed a negative impact, the provincial government amend the tiered rate structure to “minimize the effect for those less fortunate and those who have limited options to reduce their electricity usage (i.e. no access to natural gas).”

In response to resolution 2013-B85 the provincial government indicated that it was monitoring the impact of the tiered rate structure. The Province pointed out, however, that the rates charged by FortisBC, as a privately-owned utility, are regulated by the BC Utilities Commission.

More generally, the Committee notes that UBCM members have endorsed resolutions supporting postage stamp, cost-based rates for electricity (1996-B7; 2001, 2002 and 2003 UBCM energy policy positions). In 2004, members endorsed resolution B87 which objected to BC Hydro’s proposed increase in electricity rates. Prior to that, resolution 1992-B99 requested that BC Hydro be encouraged to promote electric heating at equitable rates in homes that are adequately insulated, especially in areas were natural gas service is not available.



129

B41 PROPOSED CLOSURE OF BURRARD THERMAL PLANT Port Moody WHEREAS the City of Port Moody has been informed by the Government of British Columbia that the 900 MW (megawatt) natural gas-fired Burrard Thermal Generating Station in Port Moody is scheduled for closure in 2016, a plant which can provide an essential service by generating electricity to meet peak electrical loads in British Columbia during the winter months, is located in the lower mainland (the load centre of British Columbia) as an important strategic asset and can provide backup electricity in the event of low water levels behind BC Hydro dams or the failure of lengthy transmission lines due to forest fires, ice storms or similar causes;

AND WHEREAS the annual operating cost of Burrard Thermal, which has the lowest nitrogen oxides emissions of any natural gas standby plant in Canada, is approximately $20 million, as opposed to the $55 million presently being paid by BC Hydro to keep a smaller 275 MW natural gas-fired plant on standby in the outlying community of Campbell River;

AND WHEREAS BC Hydro’s Integrated Resource Plan (2013) indicates a possible shortage of capacity (even in the absence of new electricity-supported Liquefied Natural Gas) as early as 2018, a shortage which is proposed to be met by constructing new natural gas plants:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM petition the Government of BC and BC Hydro to keep the Burrard Thermal Generating Station open until at the very least a review by the British Columbia Utilities Commission is conducted on the closing of Burrard Thermal and the construction of Site C Dam, with the end goal being that this facility be powered by a renewable energy source.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership endorsed resolution 2008-B77, which requested that the provincial government keep Burrard Thermal Generating Station “in operation and fully maintained” to serve as an energy source during high demand periods and to provide ongoing voltage regulation.

In response to the 2008 resolution the provincial government acknowledged the value of “capacity, energy and voltage support” provided by Burrard Thermal and indicated willingness to keep the plant available for peak demand, subject to its operation remaining cost effective.


B42 REINSTATE THE MANDATORY LONG FORM CENSUS Burnaby WHEREAS the elimination of the mandatory long form census has negatively affected the quality of statistical data available;

AND WHEREAS local governments are particularly affected by this change given that the data is increasingly unreliable at the local and neighbourhood level:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM call on the federal government, through the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, to reinstate the mandatory long form census for the 2016 national census.


130



The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership endorsed resolution 2011-B111, which called on the federal government to reinstate the mandatory long form census for future census undertakings. The resolution was also referred to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, which wrote a formal letter to Tony Clement, then Minister of Industry and the minister responsible for Statistics Canada.


B43 ICBC AND WINDSHIELD REPAIRS Quesnel WHEREAS the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) has, for some time, discontinued providing financial assistance to BC drivers for windshield rock chip repairs;

AND WHEREAS road and highway maintenance contractors in the North Central and Interior areas of British Columbia regularly apply coarse winter road aggregate instead of finer and less destructive sand, causing damage to windshields, including cracks and rock chips;

AND WHEREAS unrepaired windshield rock chips quickly develop into cracked windshields that impair the visibility of drivers and thereby threaten the safety of themselves, other motorists and their passengers;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM call on the Province of British Columbia to direct the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia to resume providing financial assistance for drivers in need of windshield rock chip repairs.




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution asking the provincial government to direct ICBC to resume providing insurance coverage for windshield chip repairs.

However, the Committee is aware that members endorsed a related resolution, 2005-B141, which requested that ICBC apply a deductible escalation scale for windshield repair claims separate from the deductible escalation scale used for other types of vehicle repairs. The resolution also asked ICBC to “reclassify windshield replacement as part of the comprehensive package, with a $100.00 deductible” and no direct charge for repair of minor chip damage.

Members also endorsed resolution 1997-B33, calling on the provincial government to ensure that “highway maintenance contractors use aggregate that has a size less than that presently used, to reduce the substantial damage that occurs to vehicles during the winter.”


131

B44 POVERTY REDUCTION STRATEGY FOR BRITISH COLUMBIA Terrace WHEREAS British Columbia has one of the highest rates of poverty in Canada;

AND WHEREAS the price of poverty is borne by all British Columbians through higher justice system costs, greater demands on the health care system, increased pressures on community services and reduced economic productivity;

AND WHEREAS British Columbia is the only province in Canada without a poverty reduction strategy:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM advocate to the provincial government to develop and implement a poverty reduction strategy to reduce the number of people living in poverty in BC by setting concrete targets and timelines to reduce poverty.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions calling for a provincial poverty reduction strategy or plan, including the establishment of targets and timelines (2014-B40, 2014-B41, 2011-B65, 2010-B51, 2009-SR2).

In response to the 2014 resolutions the Province cited poverty reduction efforts focused on “1) growing the economy and creating jobs through the BC Jobs Plan; and 2) targeting supports to the individuals and families who need them.” Further, the Province suggested that it had “already implemented many of the changes called for by formalized poverty plans in other jurisdictions.”

See also resolutions B72 and C30.


B45 SHELTER ALLOWANCES AND RENT SUBSIDIES Fraser Valley RD WHEREAS the Federation of Canadian Municipalities and UBCM recognize that homelessness is a national concern requiring long-term solutions;

AND WHEREAS the 2014 Fraser Valley Regional District Homelessness Survey Report recognizes that homelessness in general is directly related to unaffordable rental rates, the erosion of the social safety net, and insufficient social housing inventory;

AND WHEREAS the Fall 2014 Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation British Columbia Rental Report identifies the average rent for a one bedroom apartment in British Columbia as $953 while at the same time the provincial shelter assistance rate for an employable one parent family is $375 and has not increased since 2007;

AND WHEREAS there is an increased risk of homelessness for households spending over 50% of their income on housing costs:

THEREFORE IT BE RESOLVED that UBCM urge the provincial government to increase income assistance shelter allowances and expand and lengthen rent subsidies as part of homelessness outreach and support funding from BC Housing.

132




The Resolutions Committee notes that UBCM members have consistently endorsed resolutions requesting more flexible provincial income assistance policies, and increased assistance rates with annual adjustment based on an external measure (2011-B175, 2010-B118, 2006-B171, 2006-B172, 2005-B51, 2005-B52, 2004-B133, 2004-B134).

UBCM members have also called for provincial and federal action to fund, provide and facilitate affordable housing (2008-A8, 2007-B24, 2006-B81, 2004-B2, 2004-B30, 2003-LR21, 2002-A21, 2002-B64, 2000-B31, 1999-A22, 1995-B63, 1994-B86, 1993-A2, 1991-A13, 1991-B56, 1990-A20).


B46 A BC PLAN TO END HOMELESSNESS Langley City WHEREAS local governments in British Columbia face a growing challenge of homelessness and local governments have been forced to deal with homelessness issues that fall under the mandate of the Province of British Columbia, including but not limited to health care, housing and immediate access to support programs, on an ad hoc and fragmented basis;

AND WHEREAS various pertinent ministries, local governments, social service agencies, health authorities, housing authorities, and police forces are allocating significant resources to dealing with homelessness issues, which often stem from mental health and/or substance abuse issues, in an uncoordinated manner, resulting in duplication and overlapping of efforts:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request that the Province of British Columbia develop a comprehensive, coordinated and sustainable province-wide homelessness plan that sets out a series of actions, timelines and financial requirements aimed at ending homelessness in the province, while supporting community-led initiatives on homelessness, in a compassionate, dignified and fiscally responsible manner;

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that UBCM, through FCM, ask the federal government to agree to a federally funded national housing strategy.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions calling on the provincial and federal governments to develop a housing strategy as part of a comprehensive plan to address homelessness (2013-B54, 2009-C28, 2008-A3, 2007-B58).



133

B47 A HOUSING ACTION AGENDA FOR BRITISH COLUMBIA Vancouver WHEREAS housing is becoming increasingly unaffordable in many areas of the province due to a range of factors, including speculation, the rising cost of land and strong demand driven by population growth;

AND WHEREAS rental housing, which provides housing affordable to a wide range of tenants with low or mid-range annual incomes, has not been built in large volume since the end of provincial and federal programs, resulting in record low vacancy rates in many areas;

AND WHEREAS Premier Christy Clark has recently acknowledged the severity of the problem for renters and first-time home buyers, promising to consider options available to make housing more affordable:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Province develop and implement a comprehensive housing program, including measures to stimulate rental housing construction, maintain existing rental housing, reduce speculation, increase investments in social and non profit housing and expand opportunities for first-time home buyers.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership endorsed resolution 2012-B143, which called on the provincial government to provide incentives for the retention of existing and development of new market rental housing.

In response to the 2012 resolution the provincial government referenced existing programs including Housing Matters BC, the BC Housing Management Commission, and the Community Partnership Initiative.

The Committee would observe that members have consistently endorsed resolutions seeking ways to preserve and build new affordable housing options. Members have called for the provincial and federal governments to:

• fund, provide and facilitate affordable housing in communities (2008- A3; 2007-B24; 2006-B81; 2004-B2; 2004- B30; 2003-LR21; 2002-A21; 2002-B64; 2000-B31; 1999-A22; 1995-B63; 1994-B85; 1993-A2; 1991-A13; 1991- B56; 1990-A20);

• establish incentives for the private sector construction of new rental housing including low income tax credits, GST exemptions, and capital cost depreciation allowances (2012-B143, 2008-A3);

• allow rental investors to qualify for small business deductions; reduce GST payments on rental housing; enable creation of an Equity Investment Fund for Rental Housing; enact other such measures to encourage investment in and development of rental housing; consider all measures that would maximize the affordability of market rental housing (2007-A7);

• amend Section 903 of the Local Government Act to authorize local governments, if they should so choose, to enact land use regulations that would regulate residential rental tenure through zoning and other measures (2007-B7);

134

• provide federal rental subsidies (2000-B31); • provide cost-sharing shelter allowances and rental subsidy programs (1999-A22); and • increase the allocation of rental units through CMHC (1991-B56).

Although this resolution makes specific requests for action that have not previously been considered by the membership, the overall goal of encouraging the development of rental housing is consistent with established UBCM policy.



B48 PURPOSE BUILT RENTAL HOUSING Maple Ridge WHEREAS the provision of incentives for private investors and developers to build purpose-built rental housing would increase the rental housing supply and contribute to overall affordable housing options; as demonstrated through programs in the United States, like the Low Income Housing Tax Credit;

AND WHEREAS the discontinued federal Multi-Unit Residential Building program provided for an incentive to create rental housing, not replacing this program has created diminished rental housing stock;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Federation of Canadian Municipalities request that the federal government review current tax structures and programs to provide incentives for investment that increase purpose-built rental stock.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions calling on the federal government to work with provinces, territories, and local government to develop a national action plan for housing, including a significant federal funding commitment and investment in affordable rental housing stock (2014-B46, 2013-B54, 2009-C28, 2008-A3, 2007-B58, 2005-A9, 2004-B30, 2000-B31, 1994-B85).


B49 EXPIRY OF FEDERAL COOPERATIVE Maple Ridge HOUSING AGREEMENTS

WHEREAS co-operatives provide for the mixed housing needs of many Canadians including those on fixed or limited incomes and maintaining rent-to-income based subsidies for co-operative housing assists some of our more vulnerable populations to remain stably housed;

AND WHEREAS federal operating agreements with housing cooperatives that provide for subsidies for their low income residents will expire within the next five years:

135

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that FCM request that the federal government maintain the rent supplement funding for more than 20,000 low-income households in co-operative housing communities across Canada.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership endorsed resolutions 2014-B44 and 2013-B54, which called on the federal and provincial governments to work to put in place “long-term, cost-shared rental assistance programs” as federal cooperative housing agreements expired. The Committee further notes that members endorsed resolution 1994-B85, which requested in part that the federal government “support social housing across Canada and reinstate federal funding for new social housing, including co-operative housing.”

In response to resolution 2014-B44 the provincial government referenced the funding subsidy that it provides for selected co-op units, and committed to maintaining the subsidy.


B50 FUNDING FORMULA FOR PUBLIC EDUCATION Columbia Shuswap RD WHEREAS many school districts throughout the Province of BC are struggling to fund and operate facilities and programs within their jurisdiction with the funding formula that has been established by the Ministry of Education;

AND WHEREAS the Province is responsible through its own ministries or crown corporations for the setting of rates for BC Hydro, ICBC and MSP premiums:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request the provincial government to complete an independent review of the funding formula used to fund public education.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership endorsed resolution 2013-B50, which proposed that the provincial Ministry of Education and the BC School Trustees Association form a joint task force to undertake “a comprehensive performance audit, review and possible revision of the funding formula for education.”

In response to resolution 2013-B50 the provincial government emphasized that the current funding formula, including supplemental funding for areas with declining enrolment, already reflects the unique education needs of communities around the province.

136

The BC School Trustees Association also responded to the resolution, confirming that “improvements to education funding overall, and to the formula by which funds are distributed, have been longstanding concerns.” BCSTA referenced its own 2011 Task Force that reviewed the education funding formula and submitted an extensive report to the Ministry of Education, and expressed interest in working with local governments to address shared concerns.

Further, UBCM members have consistently endorsed resolutions expressing concern about insufficient funding for public education, associated repercussions such as school and facility closures, and cutbacks to special needs education programs (2013-B51, 2010-B49, 2009-B58, 2008-B22, 2006-B165, 2006-B167, 2005-B157, 2003-B135, 2002-LR2).


B51 GENETICALLY MODIFIED ORGANISMS Anmore WHEREAS the Village of Anmore opposes the cultivation of genetically engineered crops, plants and trees in the Village of Anmore:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM call on the federal and provincial governments to implement a regime of mandatory labelling of all genetically modified organisms for sale in BC and Canada;

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that UBCM call on the federal and provincial governments to impose a moratorium on bringing further genetically modified organisms for sale in BC and Canada.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership has endorsed resolutions seeking mandatory labelling of genetically modified organisms, as well as the prohibition of import, export, and growing of genetically modified organisms in BC (2013-B72, 2012-B126, 2008-B48, 2007-B192).

In response to the 2013 resolution the provincial government acknowledged that some UBCM members have indicated their preference for GE-free status of their jurisdictions, but emphasized that “responsibility for the evaluation of the safety of GE products rests with the federal government.”

137

Section B—Part 2 and Part 3

Resolutions Proposing New Policy This section contains resolutions that:

• Address topics not previously considered; • Were previously considered but not endorsed; • Involve topics of local or regional significance; or • Involve topics of national significance and that are recommended, as

appropriate, for consideration by FCM. The resolutions have been classified as:

• Part 2: issues considered within the jurisdiction of local government; or • Part 3: resolutions that are considered not within the jurisdiction of local

government. A motion to enter all resolutions in Section B—Parts 2 and 3 for discussion will be made by a spokesperson for the Resolutions Committee: I move that all Section B—Part 2 and Part 3 resolutions be considered for debate. Once it is determined which resolutions will be considered individually, discussion will begin in the order the resolutions are printed. Sponsors do not have to move each resolution individually, but they are invited to speak to their resolution at the appropriate time.

138

Section B—Part 2-a

Resolutions Proposing New Policy After the motion to enter all resolutions in Section B—Parts 2 and 3 for discussion, a spokesperson for the Resolutions Committee will introduce the following motion: Shall the recommendations of the Resolutions Committee for the resolutions in Section B—Part 2-a be adopted? If the motion is approved by delegates, then the Resolutions Committee’s recommendations for all Section B—Part 2-a resolutions will be endorsed as a block. These resolutions will not be debated individually unless there is a motion introduced to specifically consider such a motion. Such a motion would be: I move that resolution B(x) be removed from the block and be considered separately for debate. Such a motion would be introduced as an amendment to the general motion stated above. If the motion to remove a resolution from the block is approved, the resolution would be considered after the primary motion had been decided.

139

Section B2-a

Community Safety

B52 RE-ESTABLISH PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT AS Golden DIKING AUTHORITY

WHEREAS the Province has designated municipalities as diking authorities, and established a wide range of authoritative powers over them including requirements to fully administer and resource ongoing dike maintenance, flood protection planning, monitoring, inspection, reporting, and other associated work as well as to substantively fund disaster prevention and relief initiatives;

AND WHEREAS notwithstanding s. 2(b) of the Community Charter, the administrative and financial resources required to undertake these responsibilities are an increasingly unsustainable burden to small communities:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Province be re-established as the diking authority in municipalities less than 5,000 in population.



THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Province be re-established as the diking authority in all local governments.


This resolution proposes that the Province be re-established as the diking authority in municipalities less than 5,000 in population. The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership endorsed resolution 2014-B75, a resolution from the same sponsor and with similar intent. Resolution 2014-B75 proposed that the provincial government be re-established as the diking authority in municipalities less than 20,000 in population and in electoral areas.

In response to the 2014 resolution, the Province referenced its existing Dike Safety and Flood Protection programs, and indicated that it was in discussions with the federal government regarding a new federal National Disaster Mitigation Strategy and Flood Protection Program.

The Committee is also aware that members have endorsed resolutions requesting that the federal and provincial governments provide funding assistance to all local governments for flood protection (2013-A2; 2011-B11; 2007-A1; 2006-B18; 2006-B19; 2004-A11; 2004-B16; 2003-B21 and 2003-B82). None of these previous resolutions have suggested differentiating the handling of floodplain management based on the population of a local government.

Recognizing that local governments of all sizes and population densities face challenges handling floodplain management, the Committee proposes an amendment to reflect this.


140

B53 HUMAN TRAFFICKING NCLGA Executive WHEREAS human trafficking is a real and devastating issue in British Columbia;

AND WHEREAS significant work & research has been done as of late to aid in the prevention and prosecution of human trafficking throughout Canada:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM call on the RCMP to work collaboratively with respective local governments in order to implement the recommendations found within the National Task Force on Sex Trafficking of Women and Girls in Canada's recent report ("’NO MORE’ Ending Sex-Trafficking In Canada”) as well as the Province of British Columbia's "Action Plan to Combat Human Trafficking."




The Resolutions Committee has not previously considered a resolution calling on the RCMP to work with local governments to implement recommendations from the report, “NO MORE: Ending Sex-Trafficking in Canada,” as well as recommendations from the Province of BC’s “Action Plan to Combat Human Trafficking.”

However, the Committee notes that members endorsed resolution 2004-B100, which requested the federal government to ensure that the Criminal Code included language addressing trafficking of children. The resolution also called upon Family Court Youth Justice Committees, all orders of government, youth organizations, other NGOs, the Bar, the police and others, to collaborate to develop “effective methods for ending the trafficking of children.”

Further, the Committee is aware that UBCM members have endorsed resolutions against child pornography (2002- B3, 1993-B35) as well as resolutions proposing prevention and intervention against sexual exploitation of children and youth (2014-B3, 2004-B102, 2004-B1, 2002-B2, 2001-B48, 1998-B49, 1997-B27, 1994-B22, 1994-B29).


B54 PROLIFIC OFFENDERS Chilliwack WHEREAS crimes perpetrated by repeat or prolific offenders have a negative effect on communities across the province, with repercussions including but not limited to threats to public safety; damage to public and business infrastructure; diminished economic growth; social problems; and increased policing costs, accompanied by consequential increases to local government budgets and strains on all classes that comprise the local government tax base;

AND WHEREAS the provincial government’s own Blue Ribbon Panel on Crime Reduction recommended, in their Final Report, that “in order to limit the unnecessary recourse to short prison sentences that have little if any effect on crime reduction, measures should be taken to ensure that judges have access to a variety of effective sentencing options, supported by credible and effective programs in all communities”:

141

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Minister of Justice and Attorney General for British Columbia undertake the legislative and regulatory changes recommended by the Blue Ribbon Panel on Crime Reduction necessary to ensure that prolific offenders are sentenced effectively, and supported by credible programs in communities to address underlying challenges such as substance abuse or mental illness.




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution that specifically requested the provincial government to undertake the legislative and regulatory changes recommended by the Blue Ribbon Panel on Crime Reduction regarding sentencing of prolific offenders; and support for related programs in communities to address underlying challenges such as substance abuse or mental illness.

However, the Committee notes that members have consistently endorsed resolutions seeking crime prevention and harm reduction solutions in communities across the province (2011-B15, 2008-B67, 2005-B3, 1999-B36, 1994- B27, 1993-B30, 1991-A2).


Transportation

B55 BC TRANSIT FUNDING FREEZE LMLGA Executive WHEREAS direction from the recently announced 2015 provincial budget and BC Transit’s 2015/16 to 2017/18 Service Plan is to freeze operating budgets at 2015/2016 Annual Operating Agreement levels;

AND WHEREAS many local governments across British Columbia are building momentum and making great strides in improving access to transit;

AND WHEREAS the freezing of operating budgets may undermine these efforts:

THEREFORE IT BE RESOLVED that UBCM urge the province of British Columbia and BC Transit to reconsider its funding freeze at 2015/16 levels and renew its commitment to transit by restoring previously projected operating funding for the 2016/2017 and 2017/2018 fiscal years.




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution that requested the provincial government and BC Transit not to implement a funding freeze and instead restore previously projected funding for the following two fiscal years.

142

However, the Committee notes that members have consistently endorsed resolutions in support of robust and sustainable public transit service throughout the province (2013-B15, 2012-B115, 2010-B21, 2009-B15, 2006-B20, 2005-B7, 2004-B55, 2003-B65, 2003-B83, 2003-A8).

See also resolutions C11 and C12.


B56 RAIL CROSSING SAFETY REGULATIONS Langley City WHEREAS following a public consultation process, the federal government has implemented new Grade Crossing Regulations (2015) concerning at-grade vehicular and train crossings, a measure that challenges local governments in terms of budget planning and prioritizing of local infrastructure needs;

AND WHEREAS local governments have been directed to conduct, at local expense, assessments within two years and to implement identified safety improvements within seven years, with fines and penalties for non-compliance:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM and FCM call on the federal government to fully fund the completion of crossing upgrades and extend the deadlines for both the assessment and implementation phases in response to these new regulations.




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting that the federal government fully fund rail crossing upgrades, as well as extend the deadlines for assessment and implementation of the upgrades.

The Committee understands that this resolution has come forward specifically in response to the new Grade Crossing regulations, effective 2015. FCM was extensively consulted on these new regulations and advocated the importance of ensuring timelines and technical requirements related to information sharing and improvements to existing crossings would be fair and reasonable for municipalities. FCM has indicated that it will continue to engage Transport Canada over the coming months to ensure municipalities are provided with more detailed guidance on implementation issues including:

• information sharing; • options for maintaining sightlines; • obstruction of grade crossings; and • the Canadian Transportation Agency's role in dispute resolution and cost apportionment.

Prior to the new regulation coming into force, the Committee notes that members endorsed resolution, 2011-B82, asking the provincial government, as the owner of rail lines operated by CN Rail, to prevent the downloading of rail line crossing upgrade costs onto local governments.

In response to the resolution the Province referenced a specific situation involving a local government, CN Rail, and the provincial government, in which Transport Canada advised that selected rail crossings on a rail line operated by CN were unsafe and required upgrading to meet

143

federal standards. At the time, Transport Canada expressed the intent to impose cost sharing on the agencies involved. After further research the provincial government ascertained that Transport Canada did not have the authority to impose cost sharing; rather, such authority rested with the Canadian Transportation Agency.

The provincial government also shared the statistic that historically, after federal grants, the costs of safety projects at existing railway crossings had been borne 62.5% by road authorities (local government) and 37.5% by railway companies. The Province encouraged local governments to make known to the Canadian Transportation Agency their concerns respecting cost sharing of rail crossing upgrades.



Environment

B57 SUSTAINING CLEAN WATER SOURCES Hudson’s Hope WHEREAS municipalities from time to time receive groundwater or surface water test reports from certified laboratories indicating contamination results higher than the Canadian safety standards;

AND WHEREAS unsatisfactory test results typically prompt authorities to issue an advisory or restriction on use of that water, but no investigation or plan to remediate the situation:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the UBCM call on the Province to establish a fund to allow local governments to identify the source of contamination and devise and implement a plan for remediation.




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution proposing that the Province provide funding to enable local governments to investigate groundwater or surface water contamination and develop and implement a remediation plan.

The Committee is aware that more broadly, members have consistently endorsed resolutions seeking greater protection for water sources and increased penalties for contamination (2013-B37, 2012-B77, 2012-B120, 2002- B54, 2000-B22, 2000-LR2, 1998-LR2, 1990-A17).


B58 HYDROELECTRIC DAM WATER USE PLANNING Vanderhoof WHEREAS hydroelectric dams affect water systems that are a vital resource to communities;

AND WHEREAS many hydroelectric dams lack water use plans, or have water use plans that do not give communities input into decisions that affect local water systems, such as water flows;

144

AND WHEREAS communities have a strong desire to be included in decisions that affect local water resources:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Province of British Columbia require all hydroelectric dams in British Columbia to have water use plans which recognize values that give communities input into decisions that affect municipalities.




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting that the provincial government require all hydroelectric dams in BC to incorporate community input into the water use plans they develop.

The Committee does note, however, that members have consistently endorsed resolutions seeking opportunities for local government to provide input on activities occurring in community watersheds (2014-B88, 2013-A1, 2003- B95, 2001-B93, 1998-B65).

The Committee is also aware that the UBCM membership endorsed resolution 2007-B147, which requested that the Province commit to reviewing and adopting BC Hydro water use plans “in a timely manner.”


B59 BIO SOLID REVIEW PROCESS Thompson-Nicola RD Merritt

WHEREAS the Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Health are responsible for reviewing and approving bio solid composting facility permits and land application notifications under the Organic Matter Recycling Regulation; and the Ministry of Agriculture is responsible for administration of the Agricultural Land Commission Act;

AND WHEREAS, due to these activities being carried out within the Agricultural Land Reserve, the inter-jurisdictional importation of bio solid waste materials is being authorized and land application and composting facilities are being permitted without a public consultation process in locations where residents and the environment may be adversely affected by the potential health risks, noise and odor nuisances, property value reductions and community well-being:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Province form a committee including local government representatives to examine and make recommendations for changes to the Provincial bio solid review process and changes to the content in the Organic Matter Recycling Regulation and Agricultural Land Commission Act that govern the bio solid regulatory process in the Province of British Columbia.



145


The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution calling on the Province to establish and include local government in a committee to review and update provincial bio solid regulations and the bio solid review process, with potential changes to the Organic Matter Recycling Regulation and Agricultural Land Commission Act.


B60 QUAGGA AND ZEBRA MUSSELS Lake Country WHEREAS quagga and zebra mussels pose a serious threat to BC’s aquatic ecosystems, agricultural irrigation systems, salmon and other fisheries, hydro power stations, in-lake infrastructure facilities and individual farm businesses relying on intake pipe infrastructure, by clogging pipes, increasing maintenance costs for hydroelectric, industrial, agricultural and recreational facilities, causing ecological and economic damage, displacing native aquatic plants and wildlife, degrade the environment and affect drinking water quality;

AND WHEREAS the funding for annual watercraft inspection and decontamination in British Columbia significantly reduces the success rates against the invasive species threat allowing for only 132 inspections in British Columbia compared to 3,747 in the province of Alberta and 49,380 in the state of Idaho:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Province establish permanent inspection stations at key points of entry, coordinated with the Pacific Northwest Regional Defence Strategy for invasive species, with a minimum annual budget of $530,000, consistent with Alberta’s funding and also develop a provincial control and containment strategy for regions that become infested, funded by the province.



THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Province establish permanent inspection stations at key points of entry, coordinated with the Pacific Northwest Regional Defence Strategy for invasive species, and also develop a provincial control and containment strategy for regions that become infested, funded by the province.


The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution calling on the Province to establish permanent inspection stations at key points of entry, specifically coordinated with the Pacific Northwest Regional Defence Strategy for invasive species, and with a minimum annual budget of $530,000.

The Committee notes, however, that members have consistently endorsed resolutions seeking to prevent introduction of aquatic invasive species such as quagga and zebra mussels into British Columbia waters, and to control and manage these species if introduced (2014-B21, 2013-B76, 2012-LR2).

In response to resolution 2013-B76 the provincial government highlighted several ongoing initiatives aimed at reducing the risk of introduction of Quagga and Zebra mussels into BC:

146

• addition of Zebra and Quagga mussels to the Controlled Alien Species Regulation under the Wildlife Act, which in part authorizes law enforcement officials to stop, inspect and impound mussel fouled boats; with possible fines for contravention of the regulation up to $100,000;

• advocacy for the addition of Zebra and Quagga mussels to the Federal Aquatic Species Regulation, in order to prohibit importation of live mussels and enable the Canada Border Services Agency to stop mussel fouled boats from entering the country;

• support for the ‘Clean, Drain, and Dry’ initiative by the Invasive Species Council of BC, providing training and decontamination equipment and services to recreational boaters;

• the provincial Conservation Service Hotline, or RAPP line, has the capacity to deal with calls regarding mussel infested boats; and

• BC is a partner in the Columbia Basin Rapid Response Plan, a system that provides for early detection and rapid response to invasive species threats in the Columbia River basin - including Zebra or Quagga mussels.

An amendment is proposed to support flexibility and innovation in designing a quagga and zebra mussel control and containment strategy best suited to BC.


B61 HEALTH IMPACT ASSESSMENTS LMLGA Executive WHEREAS the BC Health Officers Council is calling for Health Impact Assessments to be carried out as part of all Environmental Assessments conducted in the province:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that a Health Impact Assessment must be considered for all reviewable projects under the BC Environmental Assessment Act, and that a complete HIA be performed and provincially funded as part of the project review process;

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Ministry of Environment and the Environmental Assessment Office work with the Health Officers Council and UBCM to develop the necessary guidance documents to support the implementation of HIA in the assessment of reviewable projects.




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting that the provincial government work with the Health Officers Council to amend the Environmental Assessment Act so that health impact assessments are conducted as part of environmental assessment processes in BC.



147

B62 COMPLIANCE UNDER THE BC RECYCLING REGULATION Comox WHEREAS the provincial Recycling Regulation renders producers responsible for collecting and recycling the products that they make and sell;

AND WHEREAS the Multi-Material British Columbia (MMBC) product stewardship plan outlines how, acting on behalf of producers, it will increase the provincial recycling rate for packaging and printed paper from approximately 52 per cent to over 75 per cent;

AND WHEREAS MMBC estimates suggest that 400 businesses have yet to discharge their financial obligations under the BC Recycling Regulation - that they are, in effect, non-compliant - thereby limiting MMBC's financial ability to expand collection system capacity:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Ministry of Environment improve the regulatory compliance of producers under the Regulation, so that MMBC can finance continued expansion of the packaging and printed paper collection system to all communities throughout the province.




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting that the provincial government improve the regulatory compliance of producers under the Recycling Regulation, in order to finance continued expansion of the packaging and printed paper stewardship program.

However, the Committee notes that members endorsed resolution 2014-B24, which called on the Province to ensure that there was “full and robust consultation in the implementation of Multi-Material BC,” in part to maximize diversion rates.

In response to resolution 2014-B24 the provincial government expressed interest in “additional consultation and dialogue regarding Multi-Material BC’s implementation of its stewardship plan for Packaging and Printed Paper (PPP).” The Province further indicated awareness of “some of the financial and service delivery inequities that are emerging.”

Members also endorsed a related resolution, 2014-A6, requesting Recycling Regulation amendments to require product stewardship programs to make available “in any community where a regulated product or material is retailed to a residential consumer ... collection services for these same products.”

In response to resolution 2014-A6 the Province referenced the existing requirement for a 75% recovery rate province-wide, and stated that it had “allocated additional staff and resources towards assisting both MMBC and various local governments with revisiting outstanding issues.” The Province also acknowledged that the process of resolving outstanding issues might involve “revisiting the EPR regulation itself.”


148

Land Use

B63 CROWN LAND AND PUBLIC MEETINGS Central Kootenay RD WHEREAS local governments receive Crown Land Recreational Tenure Application Referrals from the Ministry of Forest Lands and Natural Resource Operations (FLNRO) and often refer them to advisory planning commissions for advice;

AND WHEREAS often local governments and advisory planning commissions are not aware of how specific applications may affect adjacent residents;

AND WHEREAS recreational tenures continue to increase in overlap and intensity adjacent to communities and the newspaper advertisements placed by FLNRO for recreational tenures are difficult for the general public to identify project locations;

AND WHEREAS the public has a genuine interest both financially and environmentally in the areas adjacent to their communities and residents often request local governments to mediate conflict on issues outside of their jurisdiction pertaining to these applications:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request that the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations require applicants for Crown Land Recreational Tenure to hold public meetings in the affected neighbourhoods to ensure residents receive pertinent information and have the opportunity to provide local knowledge to the applicant.




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting that the provincial government require applicants for recreational tenure on Crown land to hold public meetings in areas affected by the tenure application.

However, the Committee notes that members endorsed resolution 2005-B121, which called on the Province to check whether existing local government zoning would permit the applied-for use, prior to granting any Crown tenure application.

At the time, UBCM and the provincial government were working together on two projects aimed at better coordinating provincial and local government decisions on land use. One project focused on resort development on Crown land, and the other on independent power production facilities.


B64 REFORESTATION OF PRODUCTIVE Bulkley-Nechako RD AGRICULTURAL LAND

WHEREAS the maintenance of a sustainable and vibrant agricultural sector is critically important to the province’s economic, social, and sustainable future;

149

AND WHEREAS the loss of productive agricultural lands to tree planting by companies seeking to offset their corporate carbon emissions is an unsustainable practice which threatens the long term health and viability of the agricultural sector in the province:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Province of British Columbia take action to stop the reforestation of productive agricultural land for carbon offset purposes.




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting that the provincial government undertake to prevent carbon offset reforestation activity on existing productive agricultural land.

However, the Committee notes that members endorsed resolution 2003-B71, which called on the provincial government to “recognize forest farming as [an] agricultural enterprise for taxation purposes on all Agricultural Land Reserve lands;” and further requested that the Province grant forest farming on Agricultural Land Reserve lands “the same taxation status consideration as other agricultural initiatives,” provided that a minimum parcel size and an up to date Forest Management Plan are in place.



B65 COMMUNICATIONS REGARDING DRAINAGE MAINTENANCE Kent WHEREAS a network of drainage ditches has been constructed in the Lower Mainland to channel storm water, maintain the productivity of agricultural land and protect rural and urban areas from flooding;

AND WHEREAS these ditches, to be effective, need to be cleaned on a regular basis due to heavy vegetation growth and sedimentation, and require approval from the Ministry of Forests Lands and Natural Resource Operations staff who have over exercised unreasonable methods of ditch cleaning creating additional costs for property owners:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request that the provincial government (through the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations) confirm that the maintenance of ditches is recognized as a priority by reducing the time required for Water Act adjudication and by improving relationships with local governments, thus ensuring that provincial staff are available for proactive and timely communications during the approval process to reduce operating costs related to ditch and drainage maintenance in order to best improve agricultural production.



150


The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership endorsed resolution 2011-B94, calling for the Province to recognize the maintenance of engineered ditches as an acceptable farm practice under the Right to Farm Act. Members also endorsed a related resolution, which requested the federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans to allow unrestricted maintenance of drainage ditches for the purposes of drainage on agricultural lands (2006- B31).

In response to resolution 2011-B94 the provincial government referenced the joint federal-provincial “Drainage Management Guide” that outlined a process for farmers to clean constructed ditches on their farms. The Province pointed out that this guide could also be used by local governments to develop a drainage maintenance plan for channels maintained by local governments. Once approved and signed off by all agencies, the plan can be used to conduct drainage maintenance without further approvals from agencies for many engineered or constructed channels and ditches.


B66 VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE FUNDING North Cowichan WHEREAS British Columbia tourism generated $13.9 billion in revenue, $7.3 billion in GDP and employed over 132,000 people (2013), and communities across the Province have built and operate visitor centres by relying on annual performance based funding from Destination BC;

AND WHEREAS Destination BC decided in 2014 to eliminate its performance-based grant calculation model, which funded local visitor centres based on the traffic counts generated at each centre;

AND WHEREAS communities with visitor centres that are members of the visitor centre network require assurance of long-term funding based on their specific traffic counts and long term needs:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM call on the Province to direct Destination BC to restore its "performance-based" funding model for visitor centres - a model based on actual traffic at local and regional visitor centres - to create a stable funding environment based on particular, local needs and in support of local jobs and economic development across the province.




The Resolutions Committee advises that UBCM members have not previously considered a resolution that specifically asked the Province to direct Destination BC to restore its “performance-based” funding model for visitor centres.

However, the Committee notes that in 2005 members endorsed resolution A7 which requested that the Province provide increased funding for community Visitor Information Centres from $1.15 million to at least $3.0 million per year, in keeping with the recommendation from the 2014 BC Chamber of Commerce review.


151

B67 MOUNTAIN PINE BEETLE IMPACTED COMMUNITIES Bulkley-Nechako RD WHEREAS there are regional and national impacts of the Mountain Pine Beetle epidemic in central British Columbia;

AND WHEREAS local governments in the impacted areas have collaborated to devise detailed plans and strategies that address the social and economic consequences of the epidemic;

AND WHEREAS there has been much needed support from the Government of Canada in the past;

AND WHEREAS continued support from senior governments is essential now that the serious economic, public safety, and social consequences are beginning to manifest;

AND WHEREAS documentation from the Government of British Columbia shows that the Government of Canada made a commitment to an additional $800 million investment in mitigation;

AND WHEREAS that commitment is outstanding;

AND WHEREAS the wellbeing of the province and its communities is of significant importance to Canada’s economic health, particularly in regard to trade in forest products with the United States, Europe and Asia:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM immediately and publicly call on the Government of Canada to fulfill its commitment to invest $800 million in targeted mitigation programs in the region during the next eight years; and urge that such investments occur in consultation with the Province, First Nations and local governments.




The Resolutions Committee can advise that the UBCM membership has not previously endorsed a resolution calling on the federal government to fulfill its commitment to invest $800 million in targeted mountain pine beetle mitigation.

However, the Committee notes that our membership has consistently endorsed resolutions seeking provincial and federal funding to address the impact of the mountain pine beetle (2006-B41, 2005-A5, 2005-A6, 2004-B86, 2003- A12, 2002-B36).



Health

B68 HEALTH CARE PROVIDER CRISIS Lake Country WHEREAS there is a severe shortage of general practitioners and family physicians in small British Columbia communities causing an imminent health care provider crisis and the inevitable closure of clinics;

152

AND WHEREAS the current crisis jeopardizes the beneficial health outcomes of patients having a primary care practitioner; eliminates the basic health care needs to which every British Columbian has a right; and places an unfair burden on physicians trying to meet the demands;

AND WHEREAS the criteria used under the Rural Retention Program for ranking eligible communities and determining incentive levels for physicians only considers remote and rural areas and does not value unique circumstances in small urban communities which is a huge disadvantage for attracting new physicians:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the criteria and classification system used under the Rural Retention Program be expanded to include incentives for physicians in smaller urban communities facing an imminent health care provider crisis.




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution specifically requesting expansion of the criteria and classification system used under the Rural Retention Program, to include incentives for physicians in smaller urban communities.


B69 RURAL OUT-PATIENT ACCOMMODATION Tahsis WHEREAS health care services for smaller, rural and remote communities witness the transportation of patients to hospitals in larger urban centres by ambulance and those patients, once discharged, must make other arrangements to return to their communities and therefore require temporary accommodation;

AND WHEREAS a broad spectrum of patients from remote communities undergoing chemotherapy treatment, day surgery, child birth, and the like, are also in need of temporary accommodation; and given that BC Ministry of Health goals include the key action to “work with rural communities, including First Nations, to implement a renewed approach to providing quality health care services across rural and remote areas”:

THEREFORE IT BE RESOLVED that UBCM appeal to the provincial government to make every effort in providing support, whether through direct funding, initiatives or policy, to organizations that are undertaking the development of lands and other hard assets in the establishment of rural out-patient accommodation.




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution asking the provincial government to provide greater support to organizations working to establish accommodation options for outpatients from rural and remote communities.

153

However, the Committee notes that members have consistently endorsed resolutions seeking more robust assistance for health care related travel costs (2010-B110, 2006-B156, 2005-B146, 2003-B99, 2003-B140, 1998-B96, 1996-B6, 1991-A27).


B70 FUNDING FOR NURSE PRACTITIONERS’ Columbia Shuswap RD OVERHEAD AND OPERATING COSTS

WHEREAS nurse practitioners are utilized as primary care providers in the delivery of health care services in rural communities across the Province of British Columbia;

AND WHEREAS the Ministry of Health does not currently provide funding to support the overhead and operating costs for nurse practitioners to be effectively utilized on a long-term, sustainable basis:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the provincial government be requested to immediately support the funding of overhead and operating costs for nurse practitioners throughout the province in order to effectively utilize this form of primary health care provider delivery service.




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting that the provincial government provide funding support for the overhead and operating costs of nurse practitioners.

However, the Committee recognizes that the issue of health care service in BC, particularly in rural areas, has been significant for the UBCM membership. Members have consistently endorsed resolutions supporting improved physician recruitment and retention, and the need for more health care professionals in rural areas (including but not limited to 2014-B132, 2013-B47, 2012-B91, 2012-B103, 2011-B60, 2010-B43, 2009-B148, 2008-B49, 2006- B154, 2005-B41, 2003-B104).


Selected Issues

B71 PROPOSED SITE C HYDROELECTRIC DAM Victoria WHEREAS the proposed Site C hydroelectric dam project on the Peace River has raised issues including the potential impact on BC Hydro ratepayers and provincial taxpayers, as well as the potential impacts on agricultural, environmental, aboriginal and municipal interests;

AND WHEREAS the District of Hudson’s Hope and Peace River Regional District have requested a proper review of the project before any construction or development activities proceed:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request that the Province of British Columbia refer the proposed Site C hydroelectric dam project to the BC Utilities Commission for review and consultation prior to any construction and development activities proceeding.

154




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting that the Province refer the proposed Site C hydroelectric dam project to the BC Utilities Commission for review and consultation.

The Committee notes, however, that UBCM members have consistently endorsed resolutions supporting a full and robust role for the BC Utilities Commission in the oversight of all power projects undertaken in BC (2014-B108, 2010-B102, 2007-B146, 2006-A4, 2003-B96).



B72 FUNDING PROGRAM FOR LOCAL POVERTY Surrey REDUCTION INITIATIVES

WHEREAS the provincial government is encouraging local governments to collaborate with the community through the Community Poverty Reduction Strategy;

AND WHEREAS UBCM provides administration of various grants through the Local Government Program Services:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request that the Province of British Columbia, in partnership with UBCM, initiate a grant program to fund local poverty reduction initiatives.




The Resolutions Committee advises that while the UBCM membership endorsed resolution 2014-B41, which requested that the provincial government create and implement a poverty reduction plan, and provide the resources required to implement such a plan, members have not previously considered a resolution specifically requesting that the Province provide funding to local poverty reduction initiatives.

In response to resolution 2014-B41 the provincial government stated that its poverty reduction efforts were focused on “1) growing the economy and creating jobs through the BC Jobs Plan; and 2) targeting supports to the individuals and families who need them.” Further, the Province indicated that it had “already implemented many of the changes called for by formalized poverty plans in other jurisdictions, including increasing the minimum wage, creating affordable housing and eliminating or reducing MSP premiums for low-income families.”



155

B73 WORKERS COMPENSATION ACT PRESUMPTIVE Central Saanich CLAUSE FOR FIRST RESPONDERS

WHEREAS first responders will include 9-1-1 operators, paramedics, firefighters, peace officers, police officers, sheriffs and corrections officers; and many first responders have been affected by a mental health injury/disorder - thus replacing "PTSD" with "mental health injury":

AND WHEREAS there is a need to change the Workers Compensation Act under Section 5.1 to add a presumptive clause, as it is possible that within first responders' duties, they will encounter horrific acts and develop a mental health injury:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that a two month maximum deadline be implemented when making a decision, at any decision point of the claim regarding a mental health injury claim based on one psychologist and/or one psychiatrist report;

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that upon receipt of a mental health injury claim, the worker should receive immediate financial benefits and treatment, with the understanding and agreement of the worker, their specialist and WorkSafe BC that if it is proven that the injury was not as a result of their duties of employment, there will be a repayment plan for costs;

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that when the worker is “fit to return to work or retraining” there will be a follow up plan to be agreed upon by WorkSafe BC, the specialist and the worker;

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that under Policy 97.34, Conflict of Medical Opinion, the probable difference of opinion shall be discussed with the physicians (refer to the treating physician or specialists) involved, and if it is concluded that there is doubt on any issues, the board must follow the mandate of s. 99 of the Workers Compensation Act and resolve that issue in a manner that favours the worker;

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Province of British Columbia add new legislative language to Section 5.1 of the Workers Compensation Act, adding a presumptive clause for mental health injuries as set forth in this resolution, to ensure the wellbeing of all first responders who have sustained a mental health injury.



THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the provincial government work with WorkSafe BC, first responders and other stakeholders to review and amend the Workers Compensation Act with the goal of supporting the well-being of first responders who have sustained a mental health injury.


The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting that the provincial government amend the Workers Compensation Act to add a presumptive clause for mental health injuries to first responders.

156

The resolution proposed by the sponsor addresses a complex challenge and makes several different requests that relate to the WorkSafe BC response to mental health injuries experienced by first responders. The Committee would suggest that the resolution as written does not fully address the complexity of the background information that underlies the issue.

Recognizing that communities across the province support positive health outcomes for first responders, the Resolutions Committee is proposing an amendment that honours the intent of the resolution as originally worded, but would afford flexibility to the provincial government and stakeholders to undertake thorough research into the issue before proposing solutions.

See also resolutions C32, C33 and C34.


157

Section B2-b

Transportation

B74 FUNDING FOR ROAD MAINTENANCE Zeballos WHEREAS road infrastructure, the lifeline to many coastal communities, is not under the care and control of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, but rather entrusted to profit oriented industry;

AND WHEREAS funding levels driven by stumpage and royalties are no longer adequate to sustain and maintain coastal road infrastructure to "community use" standard as expected by the travelling public:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the British Columbia provincial government be required to re- evaluate stumpage rates and apply an increased operating budget to support additional maintenance funding for forest roads accessing communities to the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations who is responsible for many of these coastal community lifelines.


UBCM RESOLUTIONS COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION: No Recommendation


The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting that the provincial government re-evaluate stumpage rates with the goal of increasing funding for the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resources to maintain forest roads accessing communities.

The Committee notes, however, that members endorsed resolution 1998-B73, calling on the provincial Ministry of Forests to reinstate grants for improvement of forest access roads leading to communities. In its response to the 1998 resolution the provincial government pointed out that the Ministry of Forests and its staff had no mandate or authority for road works outside the scope of a forest agreement.


B75 HIGHWAY MAINTENANCE Vanderhoof WHEREAS the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure is responsible for maintaining provincial highways;

AND WHEREAS the cumulative effects of climate change has caused many highways to become severely degraded, creating unsafe traveling conditions:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Province of British Columbia provide additional funding to address the cumulative effects of climate change on highways.


158



The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution calling on the provincial government to provide additional funding for highway maintenance to address the “cumulative effects of climate change.”

However, the Committee is aware that members have consistently endorsed resolutions requesting the Province to provide increased funding and improved highway maintenance (including, but not limited to 2009-B16, 2009-B83, 2009-B93, 2009-B161, 2008-B113, 2008-B114, 2007-B16, 2007-B97, 2005-B80, 2003-A9, 2003-B9, 2001-B14, 2000-B11).


B76 ROUTINE HIGHWAY MAINTENANCE OVER PIPELINES LMLGA Executive WHEREAS timely maintenance of municipal highways is a matter of public safety;

AND WHEREAS Kinder Morgan has taken issue with municipalities filling potholes and performing routine maintenance citing regulations under the National Energy Board Act;

AND WHEREAS the National Energy Board General Order No. 1 Respecting Standard Conditions for Crossings of Pipelines imposes certain conditions which include a condition that a pipeline crossing a highway shall be located so that it will not interfere with highway traffic or maintenance;

AND WHEREAS there is uncertainty and confusion regarding the application of regulations cited by Kinder Morgan, the effect of National Energy Board General Order No. 1 Respecting Standard Conditions for Crossings of Pipelines and conditions that may have been imposed under the earlier enactments of s.108 of the National Energy Board which provides that any certificate approving a pipeline may contain terms and conditions related to pipelines crossing highways and other utilities:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM and FCM request the federal Ministry of Natural Resources to revise the regulations under the National Energy Board Act such that the regulations appropriately balance public safety and the continuing need for municipalities to undertake routine highway maintenance without having to first provide notice to or obtain a permit from the owner or operator of the pipeline.




The Resolutions Committee advises that UBCM members have not previously considered a resolution requesting that the federal government revise the regulations under the National Energy Board Act to better balance public safety and the continuing need for local governments to undertake routine highway maintenance without having to first provide notice to or obtain a permit from the owner or operator of a pipeline.



159

Community Safety

B77 DEVELOPMENT OF AN EMERGENCY RESPONSE Powell River City SEISMIC MITIGATION FUND

WHEREAS in 1921 the Province of British Columbia initiated collection of a tax of 4.4% of gross property and vehicle insurance premiums (Insurance Premium Tax) equal to approximately $450M per year to offset the cost of administering the Fire Marshalls Act, later the Fire Services Act;

AND WHEREAS the March 2014 Auditor General's Report concluded that British Columbia was not adequately prepared for a catastrophic seismic event and it is anticipated that seismic upgrading will be one of the included recommendations contained in the report of Henry Renteria, Chair of the BC Earthquake Preparedness Consultation that has been received by the province:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request that the provincial government:

• establish an Emergency Response Seismic Mitigation Fund; • allocate $190,000,000 annually from the Insurance Premium Tax to the fund; and • make available up to $1,000,000 of the fund annually to each local government in British

Columbia for the purpose of seismic upgrading of local government emergency response buildings including emergency reception centres.




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution proposing that the provincial government allocate certain revenues from the Insurance Premium Tax towards the establishment and maintenance of an Emergency Response Seismic Mitigation Fund, to be used by local governments for seismic upgrading of local government emergency response buildings.

The Committee notes, however, that UBCM members have endorsed more general resolutions requesting funding from other orders of government for seismic upgrading of local infrastructure (2012-B4, 2008-B117, 2001-B52).


B78 DISASTER RELIEF Central Kootenay RD WHEREAS sections 20(1) and (2) of the Emergency Program Act specifically state that:

“The Lieutenant Governor in Council may, be regulation, establish criteria by which the eligibility of a person to receive disaster financial assistance is to be determined;

The Lieutenant Governor in Council or the Minister may provide disaster financial assistance in accordance with the regulations to persons who suffer loss as a result of a disaster.”

160

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM ask the Lieutenant Governor in Council to expand the disaster relief fund making it available to all property owners when such disaster is a result of natural and/or non-human causes.


UBCM RESOLUTIONS COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION: Not Endorse


The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership considered but did not endorse resolution 2014- B129 from the same sponsor, which requested that the Lieutenant Governor in Council create a disaster relief fund open to all property owners, when such disaster is as a result of natural and/or non human causes; and further that the disaster relief fund be formed through collection of a fee of 1 cent per $1,000 per annum from each property owner.

The Committee understands that at present, eligibility for the provincial Disaster Financial Assistance program is limited to primary residences only. The Province has indicated that the Disaster Financial Assistance program is not insurance and is not intended to provide assistance to individuals whose secondary or vacation property is damaged. According to the provincial government, in cases where an individual’s secondary or vacation home is damaged, it is expected that they have a separate, primary residence to return to.


B79 WORKSAFE BC CONFINED SPACE REGULATIONS Penticton WHEREAS WorkSafe BC amended its confined space regulation in 2011;

AND WHEREAS the current WorkSafe BC regulations and guidelines with respect to confined space within waste water treatment plants are challenging design standards;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request the Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training to direct WorkSafe BC to provide an exemption to waste water treatment plants until a confined space regulations rewrite, with input from waste water treatment plant owners and operators, can be completed.




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting that the provincial government review the applicability of WorkSafe BC confined space regulations in regards to waste water treatment plants, and in the meantime provide waste water treatment plants an exemption from WorkSafe BC confined space regulations.


161

B80 RAPE CULTURE IN CANADA NCLGA Executive WHEREAS sexual assaults continue to be committed across Canada, and victims are of every age, race, income and gender;

AND WHEREAS sexual assaults are under-reported, and prosecution and conviction rates are low:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM advocate for an intergovernmental task force to be convened to determine the steps needed to erase the “rape culture” that is pervasive in schools, universities, workplaces and elsewhere across Canada;

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the task force be mandated to elicit testimony from victims in order to determine the steps needed to improve the reporting, arrest and conviction rates across Canada.




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution calling for the creation of an intergovernmental task force to study and work to eradicate “rape culture.”

However, the Committee would note that members have endorsed resolutions against child pornography (2002-B3, 1993-B35) as well as resolutions proposing prevention and intervention against sexual exploitation of children and youth (2014-B3, 2004-B1, 2004-B102, 2004-B1, 2002-B2, 2001-B48, 1998-B49, 1997-B27, 1996-B24, 1994-B22, 1994-B29).


B81 BC EMERGENCY RESPONSE Bulkley-Nechako RD MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

WHEREAS the British Columbia Emergency Response Management System (BCERMS) was developed to ensure a coordinated and organized provincial response and recovery to any and all emergency incidents;

AND WHEREAS the BCERMS Response Objectives are not being applied to flooding events to ensure residents of BC are ranked first:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Province of British Columbia ensure the residents of BC are ranked first during all emergency incidents including flooding events; and further, that the ranking apply to both natural and unnatural (industry) led events.



162


The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting that the provincial government apply the response objectives of the BC Emergency Response Management System to flooding events, both natural and industry led events.


Taxation

B82 INCREASING CORPORATE INCOME TAX RATES Cowichan Valley RD WHEREAS local governments are heavily reliant on property taxes and need to diversify their revenue sources;

AND WHEREAS income tax sharing arrangements are common between senior and local government in other jurisdictions and British Columbia has the second lowest corporate income tax rate of all provinces and territories:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Government of British Columbia be urged to increase the corporate income tax rate by 1% on large corporations as defined by the Province and transfer any revenue from that tax increase to the local government level.




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting that the provincial government impose a 1% increase of the income tax rate levied on large corporations, and transfer revenue from such a tax increase to local governments.


B83 CARBON TAX New Westminster WHEREAS the urgency of finding ways to meet B.C.'s 2020 GHG reduction targets is increasing, B.C.'s economy remains strong relative to the rest of Canada, the carbon tax has been a success at helping to lower emissions, and has enjoyed relatively high public support and been praised by the OECD and World Bank; and,

WHEREAS the province's carbon tax freeze is scheduled to end in 2018, or earlier if enough jurisdictions implement comparable carbon pricing approaches, and the percentage of the world's carbon pollution covered by a carbon price is expected to increase from 12% in 2014 to 25% in 2017 after Ontario, Washington and Oregon State, and China, Chile and South Africa implement the systems they have promised:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Province commit to increases in the carbon tax of $5 per tonne per year starting when the freeze ends and reviewed five years later, and use the incremental revenue of the carbon tax to support emission reduction projects, particularly at the local and regional level.

163




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution proposing that the provincial government should increase the carbon tax by $5 per tonne per year, subject to five- year review, with revenues used to support local and regional emission reduction initiatives.


B84 BUSINESS CLASS EXEMPTION Vernon WHEREAS the statutory property exemption for business Class 6 assessments is $10,000, regardless of the property value;

AND WHEREAS the business Class 6 exemption has remained unchanged since implementation in 1984 despite increasing assessments;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the provincial government review the business class exemption for Class 6 assessments and consider an increase to $50,000 for the statutory property exemption, in order to provide small business, in the Province of British Columbia, a fair exemption for their increased assessed property value.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership considered but did not endorse similar resolutions requesting that the property tax exemption for small business be increased (2014-B105; 2012-B138; 2011-122; 2009-B95). However, members endorsed resolutions 2007-B121 and 2008-B26, both calling on the provincial government to review the business class exemption for Class 6 assessments and consider an increase in the statutory property exemption.

Similar resolutions in 2000 and 2001 requesting that the Province increase the business class assessment exemption from $10,000 to $20,000 were not endorsed. At that time in its comments the Resolutions Committee suggested that an increase in the assessment exemption is potentially just a redistribution of the tax burden among businesses. If the local government maintains its business class tax allocation, then the result is just to reallocate the tax burden to other businesses.

It should be noted that a municipality concerned with high assessment of business property could address this problem by lowering the local tax rate. To implement a province-wide increase in the property exemption for business would reduce the assessment for everyone, regardless of whether or not this a local issue. It would appear to reduce local discretion and limit local governments’ ability to deal with a local issue in the most effective manner.

164

In its response to the 2008 resolution, the provincial Ministry of Community Development suggested that amendments enacted to Section 226 of the Community Charter enable municipalities to provide revitalization tax exemptions for any revitalization objectives, including economic revitalization. Using these provisions, a municipality could strategically target support towards the kinds of economic activities and investment seen to be in the best interests of the community.


Finance

B85 OFFICE OF AUDITOR GENERAL FOR North Saanich LOCAL GOVERNMENT

WHEREAS the Auditor General for Local Government (AGLG) has cost taxpayers $5.2 million with little evidence of any value for taxpayers;

AND WHEREAS there is a lack of a clear public policy problem that the AGLG is intended to resolve:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM call on the Province to eliminate the Auditor General for Local Government due to the fact that the requirements of such an office are already met under existing local government legislation and regulations.




The Resolutions Committee notes that, while the membership has not previously considered a resolution on this topic, in 2011 UBCM members endorsed a policy paper regarding the Auditor General for Local Government (at that time referred to as a Municipal Auditor General). The policy paper expressed disagreement with “the necessity to create an office of the Municipal Auditor General, due to the fact that requirements of such an office are already met under existing local government legislation and regulations.”


B86 LAND TITLE FEES Nanaimo RD WHEREAS local governments rely on land title records and survey plans from the Land Title and Survey Authority of BC (LTSA) in their day to day operations beyond those searches conducted for assessment or taxation purposes;

AND WHEREAS the Land Title Act limits the fee exemption to land title register searches conducted for taxation and assessment purposes only, resulting in significant additional costs to local governments:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM urge the Province to amend the Land Title Act to expand the purposes under which a local government can search the records of the land title office without charge.

165




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting that the Land Title Act be amended to expand the purposes under which a local government can search the records of the land title office without charge.

The LTSA has advised that under the Land Title Act, the only existing exemption from LTSA fees for local governments is found in Section 381 of the Land Title Act: an exemption for searches in support of property assessment or taxation purposes. LTSA is required by statute and contract (with the the Province) to collect on behalf of and pay to the Province all statutory fees under the Land Title Act. The Resolutions Committee understands that the LTSA has no discretion in the matter.

The sponsor is seeking to amend the Land Title Act to expand the current exemptions for local governments from paying fees.


B87 FUNDING ALLOCATION TO SMALL COMMUNITIES Lumby WHEREAS the Province of BC and Government of Canada offer a range of local government funding programs to stimulate the economy and address infrastructure requirements;

AND WHEREAS the definition of small communities under the New Building Canada Fund – Small Communities Fund (NBCF) is defined as communities with a population of less than 100,000 people;

AND WHEREAS villages, towns and districts with a population under 5,000 people, make up for more than half of the 162 municipalities in British Columbia;

AND WHEREAS villages, towns and districts with a population under 5,000 often don’t have the financial resources to afford their portion of the funding required under the government grant programs such as the NBCF:

THEREFORE IT BE RESOLVED that a new category referred to as “micro-community” be introduced when the provincial or federal governments are establishing grant programs tailored to unique needs and financial positions of micro-communities;

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the municipal portion of projects being funded by government grants be lessened for micro-communities to recognize their more limited financial capabilities and financial readiness in comparison to their more populous counterparts.




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution calling on the provincial and federal governments to identify local governments with population under 5,000 specifically as “micro-communities.”

166

The Committee notes, however, that members have consistently endorsed resolutions requesting the provincial and federal governments to build more flexibility into new grant programs in recognition of the limited financial capabilities and financial readiness of small local governments (2014-B19, 2013-B19, 2012-B13, 2009-B29, 2004- A7).


Legislative

B88 CHANGE THE REQUIREMENTS FOR North Vancouver District PUBLIC NOTIFICATION

WHEREAS the Local Government Act and the Community Charter require that all public notices be published in a newspaper;

AND WHEREAS printed newspapers are no longer the only or most effective means of giving public notice:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request the provincial government amend the Local Government Act and the Community Charter to allow statutorily required public notices to be published using a variety of media channels, including but not limited to: newspapers, social media, web sites and online advertising, as long as reasonably equivalent or better reach than that of solely using printed newspapers can be demonstrated.




The Resolutions Committee advises that while the UBCM membership has considered resolutions requesting amendments to the Local Government Act and Community Charter regarding the requirement to publish a notice in a newspaper, members have not previously considered the specific request to remove newspapers as the required medium for such public notices, and instead accept a variety of media formats (with newspapers being one of several options) as fulfilling the statutory requirement to publish a notice.

The Committee notes that the UBCM membership considered but did not endorse a similar resolution, 2011-B124, which asked the provincial government to amend the Local Government Act and Community Charter to permit a local government to determine, by bylaw, the requirements for public notice for its community. The Committee also notes that UBCM members considered but did not endorse resolution 2007-B62, which requested that the provincial government amend the Community Charter to permit a local government to advertise in a “recognized local online news service” to satisfy the notice provisions of the Charter.

At present, the Committee understands that the Community Charter already contains provisions for a degree of flexibility regarding the statutory requirement to publish a notice. Section 94(7) of the Community Charter provides the option for a local government to broaden the types of media used to publish a notice - that is, a local government must still publish the notice in a newspaper, but may in addition publish the notice in another way (e.g. on the Internet).

167

As well, Section 94(4) of the Community Charter addresses situations where publishing a notice in a newspaper is not practicable, such as a small community without a local newspaper. Under Section 94(4) such a community could set alternative means to satisfy the statutory requirement to publish a notice - for example, door-to-door delivery of the notice.



B89 SETTING OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT FEES Williams Lake WHEREAS local governments are faced with difficulties regulating and deterring excessive nuisance complaints which results in a drain on local government staff and RCMP resources;

AND WHEREAS Section 194 of the Community Charter challenges local governments’ ability to effectively discourage prolific offenders by restricting fees:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the provincial government be requested to amend the Community Charter to allow local governments the power and flexibility to successfully establish and collect fees and penalties.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the issue of local government authority to establish and collect fines and penalties is not new. In 2001 resolution B5 called for Local Government Act amendments to enable local governments to establish and collect fees and penalties without first having to seek approval from the Chief Judge of the Province of BC. The resolution was referred to the consultation process regarding development of the Community Charter.


B90 CHANGE THE POSITION TITLE OF ELECTORAL Kootenay Boundary RD AREA DIRECTOR

WHEREAS the term Director, when used for an Electoral Area Director, denotes a corporate or bureaucratic structure and creates confusion with the public and colleagues across the country and beyond, and;

AND WHEREAS Electoral Area Directors are often excluded from important events, announcements and opportunities for consultation simply because they are seen as a lesser form of elected official:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Province of British Columbia amend the Local Government Act and Community Charter as necessary to change the title of Electoral Area Director to Rural Mayor to more properly reflect the responsibilities and contributions of these elected officials.

NOT PRESENTED TO THE ASSOCIATION OF KOOTENAY AND BOUNDARY LOCAL GOVERNMENTS


168


The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution calling for the provincial government to amend the Local Government Act and Community Charter in order to change the title of Electoral Area Director to Rural Mayor.


Elections

B91 CANDIDATES FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTIONS View Royal TO RUN IN ONE JURISDICTION ONLY

WHEREAS the simultaneous running for local government office by a candidate in multiple jurisdictions makes a mockery of the election process;

AND WHEREAS there is currently no mechanism in local government elections-related legislation to prohibit the simultaneous running for local government office by a candidate in multiple jurisdictions:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Province of British Columbia be requested to amend Part 3 of the Local Government Act to add a prohibition on the simultaneous running for local government office by a candidate in multiple jurisdictions.




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting amendments to the Local Government Act to prohibit candidates from running concurrently for local government office in multiple jurisdictions.


B92 WITHDRAWAL, DEATH OR INCAPACITY OF AN Quesnel ELECTION CANDIDATE

WHEREAS upon the withdrawal, death or incapacity of a duly nominated candidate in a local government election, the Local Government Act does not effectively enable the Chief Elections Officer to formally notify voters of withdrawal, death or incapacity of such candidate;

AND WHEREAS under the current provisions of the Local Government Act, such candidate in a local government election could conceivably receive a sufficient number of valid votes to be declared elected, thereby necessitating a by-election:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request the Province of BC to amend Section 80(1) of the Local Government Act to enable the Chief Elections Officer to post a prescribed notice inside each polling booth, or otherwise inform voters at a local government election of the withdrawal, death or incapacity of a candidate;

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that any votes cast for that candidate would not be counted.

169


UBCM RESOLUTIONS COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION: No Action Required


The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting that the Province amend the Local Government Act (LGA) to enable the Chief Elections Officer to post a prescribed notice or otherwise inform voters during a local government election of the withdrawal, death or incapacity of a candidate; nor have members considered a request to exempt votes cast for such a candidate from being counted.

The Committee understands that under LGA Section 80(5), in instances of candidate withdrawal (LGA Section 80 (2)), death or incapacity (LGA Section 80(4)) the minister has discretion to:

• specify conditions under which an election may proceed; or • order the local government to cancel an election and arrange to hold a new election.

These legislative provisions, as well as the provisions of LGA Section 155 (Ministerial orders in special circumstances), seem to indicate that the minister may already be authorized to grant flexibility to a local government in the conduct of an election when a candidate has withdrawn, is incapacitated or deceased.


B93 RECALL OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTED OFFICIALS Telkwa WHEREAS the recently extended term of office for local government elected officials in BC negatively affects the ability of the local electorate to vote for change in their local government;

AND WHEREAS there is a potential for local government elected officials to pursue activities that are not supported by, and not in the best interests of their constituents, potentially causing financial, social or operational harm in their communities:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request that the Province of British Columbia amend BC’s Community Charter to include a mechanism enabling voters to recall their local government elected officials, whereby the signatures of more than 50% of registered municipal voters would be required, with the petition being initiated no less than 18 months after the date the local government elected official was sworn in to office, following the same recall timeline currently being used by Elections BC for the recall of Members of the Legislative Assembly.




The Resolutions Committee notes that in 2003, B51 was not endorsed which requested that UBCM work with the appropriate government officials to investigate the ways and means of achieving fair and equitable recall amendments to the Local Government Act.

170

Prior to that UBCM delegates did not endorse a similar resolution (1996-B35), which requested that the provincial government enact legislation providing for Citizens Initiative, Referendum and Recall, which would have applied to all local government bodies as defined under the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.


B94 CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTION LEGISLATION North Vancouver City WHEREAS the newly elected NDP government in Alberta has introduced legislation to prohibit political campaign contributions from corporate and union sources:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Government of BC prohibit political campaign contributions from corporate and union sources at the provincial and local government level in the province of BC;

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that limits be placed on the size of individual candidates’ contributions and contributions to campaigns.




The Resolutions Committee can advise that in 2003 members did not endorse B55 which requested that UBCM work in cooperation with the provincial government to pass legislation addressing local government election finance reform, specifically prohibiting local government candidates from lobbying or accepting corporate or union campaign contributions.

The Committee would add that the report of the joint UBCM-Province Elections Task Force in May 2010 recommended the implementation of expense limits, but did not recommend contribution limits. Legislation is expected in spring 2016 with respect to expense limits for local elections.

However, in 2013 UBCM members supported the City of Vancouver’s resolution B95 that sought UBCM support for its request to the provincial government for amendments to the Vancouver Charter to allow Vancouver to make rules for election campaign finance that place greater limits on campaign spending and contributions, and provide for greater disclosure.


Environment

B95 AVERSIVE CONDITIONING OF URBAN UNGULATES Elkford WHEREAS British Columbia communities have been experiencing high populations of urban ungulates and are attempting to address the urban ungulate/human interactions;

AND WHEREAS currently the Wildlife Act prohibits the use of dogs to harass wildlife as a means to reduce urban ungulate population:

171

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Union of British Columbia Municipalities request the provincial Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations to develop a permitting provision in the Wildlife Act Permit Regulation that will allow communities with an urban ungulate/human interaction problem, and who are proactively addressing the situation with bylaws and communications, to apply for a permit for aversive conditioning of ungulates by trained dogs to further address the health and safety of both their residents and the urban ungulates.




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting the provincial government to amend the Permit Regulation of the Wildlife Act to allow local governments to use trained dogs for aversive conditioning of ungulates.

The Committee notes, however, that members have consistently endorsed resolutions calling on the provincial and federal governments to establish partnerships and provide greater resources to address wildlife populations in urban and agricultural areas, including deer (2013-B27, 2013-B74, 2012-B21, 2012-B72, 2012-B105, 2010-B25, 2003-B32).

The Committee understands that in January 2015, UBCM and provincial staff organized a two-day workshop on the issue of urban deer. Recommendations arising from the workshop were circulated to affected communities for comment, and submitted to the Province in May. The Committee understands that hazing is not currently permitted.



B96 GEOGRAPHIC SCOPE OF ENVIRONMENTAL Delta IMPACT ASSESSMENTS

WHEREAS environmental impact assessments are undertaken for major infrastructure projects in accordance with the BC Environmental Assessment Act, 2012 and the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act;

AND WHEREAS the impacts of a project may extend well beyond the geographic footprint of the project;

AND WHEREAS this is particularly true for port developments where road, rail and shipping impacts may affect communities that are geographically distant from the marine terminal:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the BC government be requested to ensure that the scope of environmental impact assessments for major infrastructure projects includes the wider community and environmental impacts associated with increased road, rail and marine traffic so that a range of mitigation options can be assessed, including the development of inland port facilities.



172


The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting the provincial government to expand the geographical scope of environmental impact assessments for major infrastructure projects.

The Committee would observe that the term “wider community” is vague and provides little direction regarding the scale of geographic scope expansion that the sponsor seeks for the environmental impact assessment process.



Land Use

B97 WAIVING ROYALTIES FOR GRAVEL EXTRACTION Stewart IN FLOOD HAZARD AREAS Kitimat-Stikine RD

WHEREAS communities situated on flood plains are overshadowed by the potential threat of flooding;

AND WHEREAS the significant rate of gravel aggregation in rivers adjacent to flood plains is well documented and removal thereof would reduce the flooding risk;

AND WHEREAS small local governments lack the financial resources to undertake gravel extraction;

AND WHEREAS there is no provincial or federal program in place for flood reduction or prevention;

AND WHEREAS royalties are required to be paid on all gravel extracted that is not for public works use:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request the provincial government to waive royalties for all gravel that is extracted by local governments and leaseholders from riverbeds adjacent to flood hazard areas.




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting that the provincial government waive gravel extraction royalties when local governments or leaseholders extract gravel from riverbeds adjacent to flood hazard areas.

The Committee is aware that members have consistently endorsed resolutions in support of flood protection works, including the extraction of gravel deposits from riverbeds (2012-B3, 2006-B19, 2004-A11, 2004-B18, 2003-B21, 2002-B18, 2000-B24, 1996-B69).

However, the Committee would also point out the need to secure authorization from the federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans for gravel, sand, silt and other debris extractions in waterways. While the Committee appreciates the concerns raised by the sponsor regarding flooding, the solution

173

proposed may not be viable based on the fact that gravel extraction is a multi-jurisdictional issue which makes a one-off approach likely impossible if it is to adequately address the flood risk for all communities.


B98 MEDICAL MARIJUANA DISPENSARY REGULATION LMLGA Executive WHEREAS the proliferation of medical marijuana dispensaries has caused problems for a number of local government jurisdictions;

AND WHEREAS the ongoing legal case between the federal government and the courts has resulted in uncertainty on this issue:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM endorse the position that local governments have the authority to regulate medical marijuana dispensaries.




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution that raised the question of whether or not local governments should have the authority to regulate medical marijuana dispensaries.

The Committee is aware that at present, some local governments are attempting to regulate medical marijuana dispensaries. In the case of the City of Vancouver, a two-tier licencing system has been approved that is designed to regulate the business by preventing shops from operating within 300 metres of community centres, schools and other dispensaries.


B99 REMOVAL OF LANDS FROM AGRICULTURAL Peace River RD LAND RESERVE

WHEREAS the Cabinet Order in Council No. 148 excluding land within the Site C reservoir is the largest exclusion in the 43-year history of the Agricultural Land Reserve;

AND WHEREAS historically, there have been other Cabinet Orders for exclusion which were subject to much more public input both for and against prior to a decision being made;

AND WHEREAS this decision was made without public input or application:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Province of BC be requested to rescind Order in Council No. 148 until there has been adequate public input and respect shown for the legal requirements required to apply for removal of lands from the Agricultural Land Reserve.



174


The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution that requested the provincial government to rescind Order in Council No. 148 related to the removal of lands within the Site C reservoir from the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR).

The Committee notes that in 2013, members considered but did not endorse resolution B109 which sought to simplify the procedure and reduce time lines for processing local government applications for removal of land from the ALR. Prior to that, in August 2010, UBCM made a presentation to the Agricultural Land Commission Review Panel, articulating a number of relevant policy positions adopted by the UBCM membership, including:

• support for targeted reviews with local government input; • broad overall support for retaining the ALR and ensuring that it captures agricultural land; • the need to balance any changes to the ALR with the commitments of local governments

under the Climate Action Charter; and • acknowledgment that there is a lack of resources currently to support the ALR.


Selected Issues

B100 CHARGING INFRASTRUCTURE FOR Langley Township ELECTRIC VEHICLES

WHEREAS electric vehicles significantly reduce green house gases (GHGs) emitted to the atmosphere and the adoption of electric vehicles is dependent upon the availability of electric vehicle infrastructure;

AND WHEREAS there are currently no provisions in the Green provisions of the BC Building Code or local zoning bylaws for electrical supply points for electric vehicles and it is costly to retrofit electrical supply points for electric vehicles, as well as to retrofit electrical conduit or cable in buildings or on properties that have already been constructed or developed:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request that the Government of British Columbia consider an addition to the Green (opt-in) provisions of the BC Building Code to provide:

a. For a rough-in electrical raceway or cable, and electrical panel capacity to accommodate a future level 2, minimum 40 amp electrical circuit for each dwelling unit of one and two family buildings that have parking spaces; and

b. That each one of twenty per cent of the parking spaces that are required for use by owners or occupiers of dwelling units in multiple family buildings be provided with a roughed-in electrical raceway or cable, electrical panel capacity and sufficient space in the electrical room to accommodate a future level 2, minimum 40 amp electrical circuit and that the electrical room shall include equipment space and panel capacity for 100 per cent of the required resident spaces;

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that UBCM request that the Government of BC consider a revision to Part 26, Section 906(1)(a) of the Local Government Act to “provide spaces and charging infrastructure for use by plug-in electric vehicles,” and a revision to Section 906(1)(b) to include “designation” of the parking spaces.

175




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting the provincial government to amend the Green (opt-in) provisions of the BC Building Code, as well as Sections 906(1)(a) and (b) of the Local Government Act, to provide for rough-in infrastructure and capacity for charging electric vehicles.



B101 SUPPORT FOR PRIORITIZING OF RESOLUTIONS AKBLG Executive WHEREAS the number of resolutions endorsed by the membership of the local government area associations and UBCM is very large and without ranking or prioritization and results in a large list of resolutions which can in some cases be ignored by the provincial government and is difficult for various executives to take actions on;

AND WHEREAS often the less important resolutions without clear recommendations for support receive the most debate and media attention:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the AKBLG encourage other BC area associations and the UBCM to implement a prioritizing practice into their resolutions process.




The Resolutions Committee notes that this resolution from the AKBLG Executive is encouraging UBCM and other Area Associations to implement a prioritizing practice into their resolutions process, similar to AKBLG Executive. UBCM members have considered a number of resolutions related to the resolutions process and specifically prioritization of resolutions.

The Committee would note that a resolutions process review was initiated by resolution 2008-B137, which requested that each Area Association prioritize and submit their top 5 resolutions for debate at Convention; that the UBCM Executive bring forward a maximum of 25 member resolutions for debate at Convention; and that UBCM develop a tracking system for resolutions.

176

Since receiving resolution 2008-B137, the Committee would note that UBCM has:

• Presented a policy paper to the UBCM membership at the 2009 Convention and a subsequent policy paper at the 2010 Convention

• Consulted with area associations, the UBCM membership, Convention delegates, past and current members of the UBCM Executive including Resolutions Committee members, and former and current staff

• Reviewed and amended the UBCM Bylaws, Conference Rules and Procedures, and Executive Policies

• Amended the placement, grouping and handling of resolutions prior to and at Convention

In 2010 ER1 was brought forward and endorsed by the membership which amended the UBCM Bylaws to effect change to the resolutions process in response to the review that was undertaken over 2009-2010.

The most recent resolution related to the resolutions process was in 2014, when B85 was endorsed which requested that “UBCM adopt a form of FCM's policy for handling resolutions, as follows:

1. Resolutions that are in line with existing policy are dealt with and forwarded as they are received, with the sponsor notified.

2. Resolutions that need quick action are dealt with by staff and executive when received if they are non-contentious.

3. Resolutions that create new policy and/or resolutions that the sponsor specifically requests debate on are forwarded to the AGM.

4. Results of how each resolution is being dealt with reported out in The Compass.”

Upon endorsement the resolution was referred to the Resolutions Committee for discussions at its first meeting in February 2015. The Executive endorsed a motion to not undertake amendments to the handling of resolutions as proposed in B85 recognizing that extensive amendments had been made as result of 2010 ER1, and decided that other measures such as providing more extensive education and information to members about the existing resolutions process and UBCM’s reporting out methods might be a better approach.


Health

B102 INCLUDE MARIJUANA DERIVATIVES AND REVIEW ACCESS Grand Forks WHEREAS the Council for the City of Grand Forks on behalf of its citizens, believes that everyone has a right to access the best medical treatment available and further that marijuana derivatives such as cannabinoid oils have been shown to have great benefit to patients that cannot use the approved smokeable product:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request the federal government to include marijuana derivatives as part of the legal medical marijuana program, and further review the legislation and options for greater local access.


177



The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting that the federal government amend the Marihuana for Medical Purposes Regulations to allow marijuana derivatives such as cannabinoid oils, as well as explore options for improved local access.

The Committee notes that the resolution makes two requests of the federal government, both of which are dependent on decisions rendered by the Supreme Court of Canada (SCC): 1) to include marijuana derivatives as part of the legal medical marijuana program, and 2) to provide greater local access, allowing individuals to grow marijuana for themselves and others:

• With respect to the first, on June 11, 2015, the SCC upheld a previous ruling by the BC Court of Appeal, agreeing that current laws were contrary to fundamental justice, and rendering sections 4 and 5 of the Controlled Drug and Substances Act (prohibiting possession and distribution of non-dried forms of medical marijuana) null and void.

• With respect to the second request, the SCC is deliberating on a challenge to the new Marijuana for Medical Purposes Regulation, which has ended the system of individual production in favour of a commercial industry. Due to an injunction granted by the court, individuals with existing medical marijuana production licences may temporarily continue to produce medical marijuana for themselves (or a designated person). The SCC decision, once rendered, will provide clarity regarding who is legally entitled to grow and produce medical marijuana in Canada.


178

Section B—Part 3-a

Resolutions Proposing New Policy After consideration of Section B2-b resolutions, a spokesperson for the Resolutions Committee will introduce the following motion: Shall the recommendation of the Resolutions Committee for the resolutions in Section B—Part 3-a be adopted? If the motion is approved by delegates, then the Resolutions Committee’s recommendations for all Section B—Part 3-a resolutions will be endorsed as a block. These resolutions will not be debated individually unless there is a motion introduced to specifically consider such a resolution. Such a motion would be: I move that resolution B(x) be removed from the block and be considered separately for debate. Such a motion would be introduced as an amendment to the general motion stated above. If the motion to remove a resolution from the block is approved, the resolution would be considered after the primary motion had been decided.

179

Section B3-a

Transportation

B103 FINES FOR FAILING TO STOP FOR A SCHOOL BUS Fort St. John WHEREAS the citizens of British Columbia take the responsibility of protecting their children very seriously;

AND WHEREAS under provincial law, it is prohibited to pass a school bus that is displaying red alternating lights and drivers in both directions must stop and wait for the bus driver to load or off-load children and for the bus driver to disengage the signal lights before proceeding;

AND WHEREAS there are increased reports of drivers failing to stop for school buses;

AND WHEREAS the fine for “Failing to Stop for a School Bus” in British Columbia is $167 with no graduated penalties for additional offences:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request the Province of BC to review the fine amounts for failing to stop for a school bus and to implement a progressive system of fines and stiffer penalties for infractions.




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting the provincial government to implement a progressive system of fines, and stiffer penalties overall, for the driving infraction of “failing to stop for a school bus.”

However, the Committee understands that the issue of “failing to stop for a school bus” is of concern to local governments around the province, as it directly impacts the health and safety of children and youth.


Health

B104 INCREASE PHYSIOTHERAPY ACADEMIC SEATS Cariboo RD WHEREAS physiotherapy is an integral part of a balanced health care program, providing benefit to patients of all ages;

AND WHEREAS there is a shortage of physiotherapists throughout BC, including many communities with no positions and no service due to unsuccessful physiotherapy recruitment efforts which has resulted in the loss of positions;

180

AND WHEREAS the University of British Columbia graduates 80 physiotherapists annually and is the only physiotherapy school in BC, although the University of Northern British Columbia has space for a 20 seat physiotherapy program:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM advocate to the Ministry of Advanced Education and the BC Treasury Board for the establishment of a physiotherapy program at the University of Northern BC to provide for 20 more physiotherapy academic seats.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership endorsed resolution 2001-B72, which called on the Workers Compensation Board (now WorkSafe BC) and the Province to create additional physiotherapy training opportunities in BC and accelerate accreditation of foreign-trained physiotherapists. At the time the Province was developing a 10-year Health Human Resources Plan.

Members also endorsed resolution 2003-B140, requesting expanded eligibility criteria for the provincial Travel Assistance Program to include travel to access physiotherapy services. In response to the resolution the Province indicated that it had no plans to include physiotherapy services in the Travel Assistance Program.

The Committee is also aware that more broadly, UBCM members have endorsed several resolutions asking the Province to improve access to doctor and other health care professionals in BC, particularly in rural and remote areas (2011-B60, 2010-B43, 2008-B49, 2002-B88).


B105 PROSTATE CANCER AWARENESS MONTH Powell River City WHEREAS one in eight men in British Columbia will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime representing the number one cancer risk to men;

AND WHEREAS the economic, family and social costs to our province would be significantly diminished through increased awareness and early detection:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request the provincial government proclaim September as Prostate Cancer Awareness Month to ensure men and their loved ones are aware of the need for early detection.




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting that the provincial government proclaim September to be Prostate Cancer Awareness Month.


181

Selected Issues

B106 ACTION ON TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION Vancouver COMMISSION RECOMMENDATIONS

WHEREAS the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) was created as part of the settlement agreement between the federal government, the churches and survivor parties to the Indian Residential Schools Class Action Settlement Agreement to determine the truth about Canada's Indian residential schools and establish a reconciliation process;

AND WHEREAS over the course of the last six years, the TRC researched official records and visited communities across Canada to hear from thousands of residential school survivors and their families about the impacts of residential schools and colonization;

AND WHEREAS the findings of these investigations are summarized in the TRC's Final Report, released June 2, 2015, and include 94 recommendations for action by all levels of government;

AND WHEREAS the City of Vancouver was the first city in Canada to establish a Year of Reconciliation, starting on National Aboriginal Day, 2013, prompting similar action from other Canadian cities representing millions of Canadians;

AND WHEREAS at the end of the Year of Reconciliation, City Council committed to create a City of Reconciliation to find a new pathway forward that is forged in truth and justice, respect and partnership with our First Nation and Aboriginal communities;

AND WHEREAS the TRC has put a call to action to government stating “that knowing the truth about what happened in residential schools in and of itself does not necessarily lead to reconciliation” and many of the recommendations in the TRC final report are actionable by the City and our local government partners:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Union of British Columbia Municipalities and Federation of Canadian Municipalities urge the governments of British Columbia and Canada respectively, to undertake a review of the recommendations and provide a response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission on how they intend to move forward no later than December 31, 2015.




The Resolutions Committee notes that while the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution regarding the recommendations in the final report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, members did endorse a proclamation at the 2013 UBCM Convention, declaring 2013 to be a year of reconciliation with First Nations across BC.



182

B107 NATIONAL ORANGE SHIRT DAY Cariboo RD WHEREAS recommendation #80 in the Truth and Reconciliation summary report calls for "a National Day to honour survivors, their families and communities, and ensure that public commemoration of the history and legacy of residential schools remains a vital component of the reconciliation process";

AND WHEREAS September 30th has been declared Orange Shirt Day across Canada and beyond, as a day to commemorate the survivors of residential schools, to remember those who did not survive, and to reaffirm our commitment to ensuring a better future for all children;

AND WHEREAS ceremonies observing Orange Shirt Day are held across Canada and beyond;

AND WHEREAS the Assembly of First Nations, at their national conference in 2014, unanimously passed a resolution in support of Orange Shirt Day:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM call upon the federal government to declare September 30th, Orange Shirt Day, a national day to honour survivors, their families and their communities, to ensure that public commemoration of the history and legacy of residential schools remains a vital component of the reconciliation process.




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution asking the federal government to designate September 30 as Orange Shirt Day, a national day to honour survivors of residential schools, their families and their communities, in the spirit of reconciliation.

However, the Committee is aware that at the 2013 UBCM Convention members endorsed a proclamation declaring 2013 to be a year of reconciliation with First Nations across BC. Further, at the 2014 Convention UBCM held a workshop on Reconciliation in Action, which included a presentation about the Orange Shirt Campaign.

The Committee would also observe that UBCM has consistently acted and advocated for reconciliation with First Nations through its ongoing work, including:

• outreach with First Nations organizations; • participation on working groups; • administration of the Community to Community Forum funding program in support of

relationship building between local governments and First Nations; and • policy analysis and development through the work of the First Nations Relations Committee.


B108 HOMELESSNESS PARTNERING STRATEGY Fraser Valley RD WHEREAS the Federation of Canadian Municipalities and the Union of BC Municipalities recognize that homelessness is a national concern requiring long-term solutions;

183

AND WHERAS the 2011 to 2014 Homelessness Partnering Strategy (HPS) identified sixty one “Designated Communities” in Canada, with seven in British Columbia, to be eligible for HPS funding;

AND WHEREAS despite continued homelessness challenges in many communities across British Columbia, the 2014 to 2019 HPS program renewal did not include a review or update of eligible “Designated Communities”:

THEREFORE IT BE RESOLVED that the Union of BC Municipalities urge the federal government to update the Homelessness Partnering Strategy “Designated Communities” eligibility list to reflect significant homelessness challenges faced by many communities not previously identified as having serious homelessness challenges;

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that federal government funding of the HPS be increased to take into account new communities added to the program.



THEREFORE IT BE RESOLVED that the Union of BC Municipalities urge the federal government to:

• update the Homelessness Partnering Strategy “Designated Communities” eligibility list to reflect significant homelessness challenges faced by many communities not previously identified as having serious homelessness challenges; and

• amend the funding criteria to consider a broad range of factors including community capacity and the specific needs of individuals who are homeless or at risk of homelessness;

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that federal government funding of the Homelessness Partnering Strategy be increased to take into account new communities added to the program.


The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution calling on the federal government to expand the “Designated Communities” eligibility list and the funding provided to the Homelessness Partnering Strategy, to include communities not previously identified as facing serious homelessness challenges.

However, the Committee notes that members have consistently endorsed resolutions calling on the provincial and federal governments to develop a national housing strategy and complementary provincial housing strategy as part of a comprehensive plan to address homelessness (2013-B54, 2009-C28, 2008-A3, 2007-B58).

Because concerns about the eligibility criteria for the Homelessness Partnering Strategy were expressed by several different local governments, the Committee is proposing an amendment to ensure that the resolution more fully reflects these concerns.

See also resolutions B109 and C31.


184

B109 HOUSING FIRST FUNDING New Westminster WHEREAS the federal government’s Homelessness Partnering Strategy has recently initiated a significant program shift by placing much greater emphasis on ‘Housing First;’

AND WHEREAS this program shift has redistributed funds and resulted in tightened eligibility criteria which has served to limit access to programs for those not meeting the criteria;

AND WHEREAS this redistribution is causing funding reductions in housing outreach, referral and advocacy programs to people who are homeless or at-risk of homelessness, including vulnerable seniors, low- income families, and women and children fleeing abuse:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the federal and provincial governments provide Housing First funding as an enhancement to important community programs and not at the expense of those programs.




The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions calling on the provincial and federal governments to develop a national housing strategy and complementary provincial housing strategy as part of a comprehensive plan to address homelessness (2013-B54, 2009-C28, 2008-A3, 2007-B58).



B110 REGISTERED DISABILITY SAVINGS PLAN Kamloops WHEREAS the Federal Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) requires Persons With Disabilities (PWD) to be eligible for the Federal Disability Tax Credit (DTC) in order to open a RDSP;

AND WHEREAS the Province of BC has a rigorous application and review process to grant individuals the PWD designation;

AND WHEREAS the DTC application process is extremely difficult and expensive for PWD requiring significant paperwork and often multiple physician appointments:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the federal and provincial governments work together to simplify the Disability Tax Credit application process or allow individuals with the Persons With Disabilities designation to apply directly for a Registered Disability Savings Plan.



185


The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution calling on the federal and provincial governments to simplify the application process for the Disability Tax Credit, or allow designated Persons With Disabilities to apply directly for a Registered Disability Savings Plan.

The Committee is aware that members endorsed a resolution with similar intent, 2000-B113, which sought to simplify the application process for the provincial additional home owner grant for persons with disabilities. The resolution proposed that the Province issue a certificate that established the claimant’s eligibility for the additional home owner grant for persons with disabilities.


186

Section B3-b

Community Safety

B111 NATIONAL INQUIRY ON MISSING AND MURDERED Victoria ABORIGINAL WOMEN

WHEREAS indigenous women and girls in Canada have been murdered or have gone missing at a rate four times higher than non-indigenous women, despite aboriginal women constituting less than five per cent of the Canadian population;

AND WHEREAS the homicide rate in the past decade is roughly seven time higher for indigenous women and girls than for all other women and girls in Canada:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request that the federal government convene a national inquiry into the widespread and severe violence faced by indigenous women and girls in Canada;

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that UBCM encourage their member local governments to work together, in collaboration with indigenous women’s organizations, to institute a comprehensive response to the widespread and severe violence faced by indigenous women and girls.




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting that the federal government convene a national inquiry into widespread and severe violence faced by indigenous women and girls; nor have members considered a resolution encouraging local government to work with indigenous women’s organizations on this issue.



Environment

B112 WARNING LABELS FOR ALL FOSSIL BASED LIQUID FUELS Colwood WHEREAS there is evidence that combustion of petroleum products such as gas and diesel used in vehicles contribute to greenhouse gas emissions that affect natural systems in ways that are injurious to human health and to the natural environment upon which we all depend for food and life;

AND WHEREAS sea level rise resulting from greenhouse gas emissions will cause significant harm to coastal communities:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM support, and will implement where possible, legislation to require retailers of petroleum products to provide plastic sleeves (nozzle toppers) with warning labels on pump handles for all fossil based liquid fuels.

187




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution encouraging local governments to enact legislation to require retailers of petroleum products to place warning labels on pump handles for all fossil based liquid fuels.


B113 WILDLIFE ALLOCATION POLICY Fernie WHEREAS the rest of Canada and North America has a maximum allowance of 10% for non-resident hunter pertaining to annual allowable harvest of wildlife;

AND WHEREAS the current Allocation Policy was negotiated in good faith in 2007 with all stakeholders at the table but was never implemented.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM support implementation by the Province of the Harvest Allocation Policy and Procedure for non-resident hunters as was negotiated in 2007.




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution calling on the provincial government to implement the wildlife allocation policy for non-resident hunters that was negotiated in 2007.


Health

B114 NATIONAL PHARMACARE PROGRAM Vancouver WHEREAS the City of Vancouver has recognized and has demonstrated over the past years its commitment to the importance of healthy citizens as the foundation of a healthy, engaged and economically vibrant community;

AND WHEREAS over 3 million Canadians, including many in our local communities, don’t take medicines prescribed by their doctors because they can’t afford them;

AND WHEREAS Canada is currently the only country with a national medicare program that does not have a national pharmacare program;

AND WHEREAS the risk of having no insurance for medicines is high among lower income Canadians which includes the service industry, precarious working and seasonal workers;

188

AND WHEREAS studies show that adding a national pharmacare program to our national health care system would lower costs to businesses by over $8 billion per year, providing Canadian companies competitive advantages in international trade;

AND WHEREAS recent research confirms that these gains can be achieved with little or no increase in public investment;

AND WHEREAS local government expenses for employee benefits would be significantly reduced by a national pharmacare program;

AND WHEREAS a national prescription drug formulary would support better quality prescribing, including reducing dangerous and inappropriate prescribing to Canadian seniors;

AND WHEREAS a national pharmacare plan is sound policy, both economically and socially, and the City of Vancouver expresses its support for the creation of a national pharmacare program as an extension of Canadian Medicare, since health and economic studies now show that such as policy would improve health in municipalities, give local businesses a competitive advantage in the global marketplace and lower costs for municipal government on taxpayers:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM call on the Province of British Columbia to work with the other provinces and territories and the federal government to develop and implement a national pharmacare program.




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting the provincial government to work with the other provinces and territories and the federal government to develop and implement a national pharmacare program.


B115 ACCESSIBLE BIRTH CONTROL Invermere WHEREAS a study from the University of Ottawa completed in 2014, concludes that 40% of pregnancies in Canada are either unplanned, which is mis-timed, or unwanted, compared to significantly lower rates in European countries (for example, France has 10.3% and Finland with a low of 4.7% as cited by Ralph Ulrich, Population Reference Bureau), partially attributed to publicly funded birth control;

AND WHEREAS unwanted pregnancies primarily effect low income and marginalized women, citing The Option for Sexual Health publication of “Universal Access to Publicly Funded Birth Control in British Columbia”, it is known that every dollar spent on publicly funded birth control, results in an eleven dollar savings to the social system in the long term:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the UBCM request the Government of British Columbia to investigate a model of publicly funded birth control similar to those offered in European countries.


189



The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution calling on the provincial government to investigate the models for public funding of birth control that have been implemented in some European countries.


Selected Issues

B116 FIRE INSURANCE FOR RURAL BC HOMEOWNERS Central Kootenay RD WHEREAS the Union of BC Municipalities passed a resolution at its 2014 meeting requesting the Province of British Columbia to immediately request ICBC to offer house insurance to BC residents to ensure a competitive option and recommended referral of the same to the insurance industry to address:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that if the Insurance Corporation of BC and the Insurance Bureau of Canada do not provide constructive solutions and significant relief with respect to the insurance issues facing rural BC homeowners by the end of August 2015, that UBCM formally request the Municipal Insurance Association of BC to investigate the actuarial viability and feasibility of providing home insurance to BC residents with a report back to the UBCM meeting in 2016.




The Resolutions Committee acknowledges that, as stated by the sponsor, UBCM members endorsed resolution 2014-B36, requesting the Province to allow ICBC to offer house insurance and to implement as soon as possible. The Committee also notes that members endorsed a similar resolution, 2013-B141.

In response to both the 2014 and 2013 resolutions the provincial government indicated that it has “no plans to have ICBC operating in any insurance markets other than automobile insurance.”

The Committee is aware that the Municipal Insurance Association of BC (MIABC) recently established a Property Insurance Program for its members, with coverage insured by MIABC in a stand-alone pool. However, property insurance under the MIABC program is available to MIABC member local governments only, not to the general public.

Furthermore, MIABC would need to decide whether they were interested in providing home insurance to BC residents and were willing to allocate the financial resources needed for MIABC to investigate the actuarial viability and feasibility of doing so. The Committee would suggest that it might be more effective to raise this matter with MIABC directly.


190

B117 ASSISTED LIVING SUPPORT FOR CHALLENGED ADULTS Langley City WHEREAS the Province, the Metro Vancouver Region, and local governments are committed to providing affordable and accommodating assisted living for challenged adult citizens of their communities with the primary subsidy funding mandate being borne by the Province;

AND WHEREAS the Province has a narrow interpretation of allowable housing parameters eligible for financial assistance that preclude new initiatives to encourage independent living and integration within owned market housing;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Ministry of Housing be requested to review the parameters of financial assistance to challenged adults and to consider funding affordable, market integrated, independent or paired accommodation.




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution calling on the provincial government to broaden the eligibility criteria of adult assisted living models for which they will provide financial assistance.


B118 ANNUALIZED EARNINGS EXEMPTION Maple Ridge WHEREAS income exemptions are beneficial to citizens receiving disability assistance to allow them to maintain greater independence;

AND WHEREAS individuals without the capacity to manage their finances within the current Annualized Earnings Exemption program might risk the loss of supports including income and housing:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request that the provincial government provide a choice based on an individual’s need or capacity to manage either monthly or annual deductions to ensure that there is no disruption of income supports or housing.




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting that the provincial government amend the Annualized Earnings Exemption program to provide a choice of “either monthly or annual deductions” to ensure that there is no disruption of income supports or housing.


191

B119 HOME RENOVATION TAX CREDITS Saanich WHEREAS the Quebec government has recently announced a new tax credit to encourage home renovations, and the Official Community Plan of Saanich and of municipalities across British Columbia and Canada recognize the importance of home renovations, housing variety, affordability, and adaptability in their communities’ quality of life, health, sustainability and economy;

AND WHEREAS housing renovations are recognized to help seniors stay at home, help the special needs of a family member or convert a house to an intergenerational home, and create skilled employment for young people, and the use of refundable tax credits for renovations is known to boost energy efficiency, local economies and reduce off-permit renovations:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM urge the governments of the Province of British Columbia and Canada to create new tax credit programs for consumers to help encourage home renovations.




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution calling on the provincial and federal governments to create new tax credit programs to encourage homeowners to undertake home renovations.


B120 DIVESTMENT OF FOSSIL FUEL RELATED INVESTMENTS Esquimalt IN THE MUNICIPAL PENSION PLAN

WHEREAS municipal employer pension funds are invested with the Municipal Pension Plan, which directly manages billions of dollars in investment funds across British Columbia;

AND WHEREAS fossil fuel investments carry numerous risks, including economic risk to market value of fossil fuel companies based on stranded assets and increased worldwide transition to renewable energy sources, making these investments worthy of re-evaluation for the long-term financial sustainability of municipal pensions and holdings:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request a report from the Municipal Pension Plan detailing the percentage and dollar amount of investments currently held in fossil fuel-related companies or investment products, and the anticipated effects from implementing a plan to divest those assets over the next five, ten, and fifteen years.


UBCM RESOLUTIONS COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION: Refer to UBCM Executive


The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting a report from the Municipal Pension Plan (MPP) on the investments currently

192

held in fossil fuel- related companies; nor has the membership requested that MPP conduct an impact analysis regarding divestment of fossil fuel-related assets over time.

The Committee is of the view that prior to considering divestment, the UBCM membership should have available a primer on matters related to the legislative and governance framework for Municipal Pension Plan investment practices – how do the assets get invested in certain asset classes, who makes those decisions and what is the legal framework. The primer would include pension, trust and common law considerations; relevant BC legislation; the role and responsibilities of the Municipal Pension Board of Trustees; the role of the Board’s investment agent – the British Columbia Investment Management Corporation (bcIMC) – in executing on the Board’s Statement of Investment Policies and Procedures.

Divestment involves screening out of investing in certain sectors because of the nature of their activity.

By way of background, the Municipal Pension Plan is a large multi-employer (900 employers) with over 290,000 members representing the health sector, local government, non-teaching school and college sector, community social services and hundreds of other smaller employers. Since 2001 it has been a jointly trusted plan; the largest pension plan in BC and the sixth largest in Canada with assets in excess of $40 billion. The last three years’ investment returns have been 10.3, 15.1 and 11.3 per cent. Investment income is very important - 75% of a final pension comes from investments. In a recent Conference Board of Canada study the MPP was shown to have a positive impact on the BC and Canadian economies.

The Resolutions Committee does recognize the initiative of the sponsor to raise the importance of the long-term sustainability of funding for the MPP. Any changes to the Plan should be based on a thorough understanding of the Plan. Resolutions have their limitations when dealing with complex issues, and when such issues arise it is established practice for the Committee to recommend referral to the UBCM Executive, who will subject the matter to further study and provide more detailed information in the form of a report to UBCM members. The Committee is recommending this approach with the fossil fuel related divestment question, and below, provides a few of the concerns that such a report could address.

First, the UBCM members need to understand the scope of what is possibly proposed:

• the definition of fossil fuels includes petroleum, coal and natural gas. • some divestment activities have been directed to fossil fuels generally while others directed

at oil or coal extraction depending on the group’s key interests. This resolution uses the term “fossil fuel-related companies” that could be open to broader interpretation to include in addition to extraction - refining, pipelines, other transportation of fossil fuels, and local natural gas distribution systems.

An allied concern is the need for clarity around certain assumptions. Municipal employers do make considerable contributions to pensions and should be concerned about the long term sustainability of the Plan. Once they make their contributions it is no longer the employers’ money – it belongs to pension beneficiaries and is managed by the Plan’s Trustees on their behalf.

193

Second, UBCM members should be informed of the legal and current governance framework, for instance:

• Trustees of the MPP are legally bound to act in the “best financial interests” of the beneficiaries.

• Trustees set the asset allocation (the percentage of funds to be invested in eleven asset classes – e.g. Canadian equities) but they don’t select individual companies and don’t directly hold interests in any companies.

• bcIMC invests on behalf of the MPP and other clients and the clients hold units in 40 plus “pools” (like mutual funds) that may include fossil fuel related companies.

• local government is part of a larger group of other employers, employees and union stakeholders that have an interest in the Plan’s investment philosophy and values.

Finally, the discussion would be greatly improved with an overview in the primer of the decade long work by MPP and bcIMC in developing policies and practices on responsible investing such as:

• MPP and bcIMC both are signatories to the UN Principles on Responsible Investing and are active in PRI annual reporting.

• the MPP and bcIMC are both committed to Responsible Investing that takes environmental, social and governance factors into account in investment activities.

• bcIMC is very active in Canadian good corporate governance initiatives and shareholder engagement. It was one of 340 global investors representing $24 trillion assets under management that signed the “2014 Global Investor Statement on Climate Change” ahead of the Climate Summit at the United Nations.

The Committee would note that the resolution as received would have the UBCM requesting the Municipal Finance Authority to provide a report on its fossil fuel related investments and the implications of divestment of its holdings. The Resolutions Committee removed the reference to MFA in respect to the independence of this local government entity with its own membership and governance authority. The sponsor was advised.


B121 DOWNLOADED BUILDING CODES Saanich WHEREAS recent changes to the BC Building Code impose national regulations from applicable larger buildings to smaller two-storey homes, with examples including exterior rain screens, energy efficiency and seismic engineering, and the Victoria Residential Builders Association reports continuing to layer these and other regulations on new homes will lead to the extinction of affordable housing for the average British Columbia family;

AND WHEREAS affordable new housing and in particular affordable new work force housing is a key component to our municipal economic vibrancy and sustainability:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM urge the governments of the Province of British Columbia and Canada to undertake a review, by independent third parties, of the appropriateness of provisions of the National Building Code on two-storey homes under 2,000 square feet, and the imposition of this on housing affordability.


194



The Resolutions Committee advises that UBCM members have not previously requested that the provincial and federal governments undertake a review, by independent third parties, of the appropriateness of provisions of the National Building Code on two-storey homes under 2,000 square feet, and the impact of these provisions on housing affordability.

In short, with this resolution the sponsor expresses concerns about the potential for stricter building regulations to drive upwards the cost of new home construction, and consequentially, render newly built housing less affordable.

The Committee would observe, however, that members have consistently endorsed resolutions that sought to include new requirements in the National Building Code and BC Building Code in order to enhance health, safety, and energy efficiency. Examples of such resolutions are listed below for reference.

The Committee notes that in 2005 members endorsed resolution B57, which requested amendments to both the BC Building Code and the National Building Code to include the requirement of an impact insulation class to address impact sound in multi-family residential projects for reasons of health, safety, and protection of persons and property.

In the same year, members endorsed resolution B56, which requested amendments to the BC Building Code and National Building Code to include the requirement of continuous drainage along the outer edge of balconies in multi-family residential projects for reasons of health, safety and protection of persons and property.

As well, members endorsed resolution 2006-B111 calling for inclusion of the R2000 construction standard in the new BC Building Code as a way to advance energy efficient housing construction.


B122 PAYDAY LOAN REGULATIONS Burnaby WHEREAS payday loan lending can place users in a negative cycle of continuing indebtedness;

AND WHEREAS local governments are concerned about the impacts of payday loan lending on residents and the economic vibrancy of our communities:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Union of BC Municipalities call on the provincial government to amend the Payday Loans Regulation section of the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act, to include lowering of the maximum fee percentage and interest rates as well as requiring payday lenders to offer installment-based repayment options;

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the applicable legislation be amended to prohibit the issuing of more than one loan in the same week to the same applicant from any lender.



195


The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution calling on the Province to amend the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act, the Payday Loans Regulation and associated legislation by lowering the maximum fee percentage and interest rates; requiring payday lenders to offer installment-based repayment options; and prohibiting the issuing of more than one loan in the same week to the same applicant from any lender.


196

Section C Part 1 of Section C contains resolutions that are referred to policy papers and/or special sessions at Convention: [No resolutions have been placed in this section.] Part 2 of Section C contains resolutions that are referred to other resolutions within the Resolutions Book: C1 – C36 Part 3 of Section C contains resolutions that are referred to the Area Associations due to being of a regional nature: C37 – C39

197

Section C2 C1 REGIONAL DISTRICT CHARTER Nanaimo RD WHEREAS the Final Report from the Regional District Task Force entitled “Enhancing the Tools for Problem Solving in Regions” was presented to the members of the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) and to the Province in January 2010;

AND WHEREAS one of the recommendations of the Task Force was “that the Province consider the Task Force consultation finding that a number of RD elected officials are requesting an “RD Charter””:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Province be urged to continue the work started with the enactment of the Community Charter and proceed with a full review of regional district legislation with a goal to enact a Regional District Charter or incorporate regional district legislation fully within the Community Charter.


UBCM RESOLUTIONS COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION: Refer to Similar Resolution


Refer to resolution B1.

C2 EXPAND OPTIONS FOR STATUTORY PUBLIC NOTIFICATION Kelowna WHEREAS all local governments are obligated to provide public notification of certain issues they are considering through posting in a public place, and publishing in a newspaper;

AND WHEREAS local governments are being called upon by their residents to engage and provide information in a variety of new ways, and who also hold their local governments accountable for improved transparency, accessibility, sustainability and strong fiscal management:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the provincial government amend section 94 of the Community Charter and Section 892 of the Local Government Act to expand the available legislated options for local governments to provide public notice that may include not only public posting and publication in a newspaper, but also local online news service, direct home delivery, email, internet or other electronic means; and add a requirement that a local government must determine, by bylaw, their chosen combination of options for public notice to ensure that all local governments maintain the integrity of the public process, while also delivering on the engagement needs of their community and representing the best financial value for all their residents.





198

C3 PROVINCIAL FUNDING FOR POLICE-BASED Alberni-Clayoquot RD VICTIM SERVICES

WHEREAS the Province does not fully fund police-based victim service programs due to its position that programs should be cost-shared with local governments in communities that contribute to their policing costs;

AND WHEREAS the property taxation system does not provide an equitable method of funding victim services and local governments have no funding formula to allocate funds in a coordinated manner that is responsive to demand for victim services:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM continue to request the Province to fully fund police-based victim service programs, using a model that equitably and fairly distributes funding across the province.





C4 NATIONAL INQUIRY ON INDIGENOUS WOMEN Quesnel WHEREAS the Legal Strategy Coalition on Violence Against Indigenous Women released a report on February 27, 2015; a study of 58 studies conducted from 1994 – 2015 regarding the over 1180 missing and murdered indigenous women in Canada, and the clear need for a national inquiry into the disproportionately high rate of murder and disappearances of First Nations women;

AND WHEREAS the report outlined how such an inquiry could consolidate and update existing knowledge about the causes of violence against indigenous women, comprehensively evaluate the adequacy of existing initiatives and programs and help Canadians and policymakers understand why there has been so much resistance to action to address this issue;

AND WHEREAS on February 28, 2015, the federal government, the Assembly of First Nations, premiers from 13 provinces and territories and the families of the missing and murdered engaged in a roundtable closed meeting to discuss an action plan to combat violence against indigenous women and girls, prevention and awareness, community safety, policing and justice:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM and FCM call upon the federal government to establish a national commission to initiate a fully funded national, public inquiry examining the root causes of violence against indigenous women.





199

C5 RURAL INSPECTION AND ENFORCEMENT OF Bulkley-Nechako RD FIRE SERVICE ACT REGULATIONS

WHEREAS the provincial government has enacted various building and fire code regulations for public buildings, including the Fire Services Act;

AND WHEREAS the provincial government has, through the BC Safety Authority, and various other provincial agencies such as the Health Authorities, established regulatory regimes designed to inspect various installations and operations, such as gas, electrical, health, food safety, etc. aimed at protecting the public from potential hazards associated with public facilities, while the Fire Services Act remains without an effective regulatory regime;


AND WHEREAS regional districts do not have the capacity to take on an inspection and enforcement role in the rural areas:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the provincial government retain the responsibility to inspect and enforce.




Refer to resolution A3.

C6 REGULAR SYSTEM OF FIRE INSPECTIONS East Kootenay RD WHEREAS the provincial government is considering requiring regional districts to enforce the Fire Services Act and its regulations in the unincorporated areas of the province, including the obligation to provide for a regular system of inspection of hotels and public buildings;



NOT PRESENTED TO THE ASSOCIATION OF KOOTENAY AND BOUNDARY LOCAL GOVERNMENTS




200

C7 FIRE INSPECTION IN UNINCORPORATED AREAS Thompson-Nicola RD WHEREAS the provincial government has enacted various building and fire code regulations for public buildings, including the Fire Services Act and regulations under that Act;








C8 FIRE INSPECTIONS AND ENFORCEMENT IN Cowichan Valley RD UNINCORPORATED AREAS

WHEREAS the provincial government has enacted various building and fire code regulations for public buildings, including the Fire Services Act;








201

C9 FIRE SERVICES ACT AND REGULATIONS Comox Valley RD WHEREAS the provincial government has

a) effectively established regulatory regimes designed to inspect various installations and operations, such as gas, electrical, health, food safety, etc. aimed at protecting the public from potential hazards associated with public facilities through the BC Safety Authority, and various other provincial agencies such as the health authorities; and

b) enacted various building and fire code regulations for public buildings, including the Fire Services Act, though has not provided for an accompanying, effective inspection and enforcement regime;

AND WHEREAS the provincial government is considering requiring regional districts to enforce the Fire Services Act and its regulations in the unincorporated areas of the province, including the obligation to provide for a regular system of inspection of hotels and public buildings though regional districts do not have the capacity to take on an inspection and enforcement role in the rural areas without significant additional financial and human resources:






C10 FIRE INSPECTIONS IN RURAL AREAS Cariboo RD WHEREAS the provincial government has enacted various building and fire code regulations for public buildings, including the Fire Services Act;

AND WHEREAS the provincial government has, through the BC Safety Authority, and various other provincial agencies such as the Health Authorities, established regulatory regimes designed to inspect various installations and operations, such as gas, electrical, health, food safety, etc. aimed at protecting the public from potential hazards associated with public facilities, while the Fire Services Act remains without an effective regulatory regime;

AND WHEREAS the provincial government is considering requiring regional districts to enforce the Fire Services Act and its regulations in the unincorporated areas of the province, including the obligation to provide for a regular system of inspection of public buildings;


202






C11 PROVINCIAL TRANSIT INVESTMENT FREEZE Kamloops WHEREAS investment in public transit reduces road congestion, increases health outcomes and helps build vibrant, connected communities in which all members can fully participate regardless of physical or mental ability, financial status or age (one third of the population);

AND WHEREAS in BC, transportation is the leading source of greenhouse gases and in many communities also the largest source of air particulate emissions;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM strongly urge the Premier, the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, and the Minister of Finance to reconsider the freeze to provincial transit investments in a spirit of partnership with local governments and that consultation with affected stakeholders be undertaken.





C12 BC TRANSIT SERVICE EXPANSION FUNDING Sunshine Coast RD WHEREAS the provincial freeze on funding to BC Transit is limiting local governments’ ability to maximize the desired social, environmental and economic benefits of public transit that are essential to communities across BC;

AND WHEREAS the BC Transit service expansion funding freeze is inconsistent with current local/provincial transit plans that emphasize increasing transit mode share and ridership through service and infrastructure investments, and is also contrary to recent Federal budget investments into public transit:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM urge the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure to reconsider the funding freeze on BC Transit service expansions over the next three years, from 2015 to 2018.


203




C13 ROUTINE HIGHWAY MAINTENANCE OVER PIPELINES Surrey WHEREAS timely maintenance of local government highways is a matter of public safety;

AND WHEREAS Kinder Morgan has taken issue with local governments filling potholes and performing routine maintenance citing Regulations under the National Energy Board Act;

AND WHEREAS the National Energy Board General Order No. 1 Respecting Standard Conditions for Crossings of Pipelines imposes certain conditions which include a condition that a pipeline crossing a highway shall be located so that it will not interfere with highway traffic or maintenance;

AND WHEREAS there is uncertainty and confusion regarding the application of Regulations cited by Kinder Morgan, the effect of National Energy Board General Order No. 1 Respecting Standard Conditions for Crossing of Pipelines and conditions that may have been imposed under the earlier enactments of s. 108 of the National Energy Board Act which provides that any certificate approving a pipeline may contain terms and conditions related to pipelines crossing highways and other utilities:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request the federal Ministry of Natural Resources to revise the Regulations under the National Energy Board Act such that the Regulations appropriately balance public safety and the continuing need for local governments to undertake routine highway maintenance without having to first provide notice to or obtain a permit from the owner or operator of the pipeline.





C14 TRANS MOUNTAIN EXPANSION PROJECT Esquimalt WHEREAS the Union of BC Municipalities endorsed Victoria’s emergency resolution (LR2) in September 2014 calling on the Environmental Assessment Office of the Province of British Columbia to undertake its own Environmental Assessment process of the Trans Mountain Expansion Project and withdraw from the 2010 Equivalency Agreement with the National Energy Board (NEB), but no response has been received to date from the Province:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Esquimalt Municipal Council affirms support for the 2014 UBCM resolution (LR2) calling on the Province of British Columbia to withdraw from the 2010 Equivalency Agreement with the NEB and undertake its own Environmental Assessment process of the Trans Mountain Expansion Project, with meaningful participation by First Nations, municipalities and all interested British Columbians;

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Association of Vancouver Island Coastal Communities endorse UBCM motion LR2 and call for a prompt response and action by the Province.

204





C15 INDEPENDENT BC ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW OF Colwood TRANS MOUNTAIN PIPELINE EXPANSION PROJECT

WHEREAS the current National Energy Board (NEB) assessment of the Trans Mountain pipeline has proven to be deeply flawed, undemocratic and no longer credible;

AND WHEREAS the Union of BC Municipalities endorsed resolution LR2 in September 2014 calling on the Environmental Assessment Office of the Province of British Columbia to undertake its own Environmental Assessment process of the Trans Mountain Expansion Project and withdraw from the 2010 Equivalency Agreement with the NEB, but no response has been received to date from the Province:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM affirms its support for UBCM resolution 2014-LR2 calling on the Province of British Columbia to withdraw from the 2010 Equivalency Agreement with the NEB and undertake its own Environmental Assessment process of the Trans Mountain Expansion Project, with meaningful participation by First Nations, local governments and all interested British Columbians.





C16 ENVIRONMENTAL BILL OF RIGHTS Victoria Ladysmith

WHEREAS municipalities and regional districts are the governments nearest to people and the natural environment, and therefore share a deep concern for the welfare of the natural environment and understand that a healthy environment is inextricably linked to the health of individuals, families, future generations and communities;

AND WHEREAS fostering the environmental well-being of the community is a municipal purpose under section 7(d) of the Community Charter and a regional district purpose under section 2(d) of the Local Government Act:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request that the Province of British Columbia enact a provincial environmental bill of rights to fulfill the right of every resident to live in a healthy environment by ensuring access to information, public participation in decision making, and access to effective remedies, and without limitation to allow a resident to:

• comment on environmentally significant government proposals, • ask a ministry or local government to review an existing law, policy, or program,

205

• ask a ministry, crown agency, or local government to investigate harm to the natural environment,

• appeal, or ask a ministry or local government to review, a decision under an enactment, • propose a new law, regulation, policy, or program to protect the natural environment, • use courts or tribunals to protect the environment, and • have whistleblower protection.





C17 DECLARATION OF THE RIGHT TO A HEALTHY ENVIRONMENT Saanich WHEREAS the David Suzuki Foundation Blue Dot Tour has inspired many Canadians to request that the right to a healthy environment be enshrined in the Charter of Rights and Freedoms through support of the following motion;

AND WHEREAS the District of Saanich understands that people are part of the environment and that a healthy environment is inextricably linked to the well-being of our community;

AND WHEREAS the Saanich Official Community Plan provides a strong policy foundation to pursue actions and initiatives that contribute toward a healthy environment;

AND WHEREAS Saanich has the opportunity to endorse the Declaration of the Right to a Healthy Environment, joining other Canadian cities in re-affirming our commitment to social, environmental and economic sustainability;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that AVICC endorse the following declaration: That all people have the right to live in a healthy environment, including:

• The right to breathe clean air; • The right to drink clean water; • The right to consume safe food; • The right to access nature; • The right to know about pollutants and contaminants released into the local environment; • The right to participate in decision-making that will affect the environment





206

C18 DECLARATION OF THE RIGHT TO A Port Moody HEALTHY ENVIRONMENT

WHEREAS municipalities and regional districts are the governments nearest to people and the natural environment, and therefore share a deep concern for the welfare of the natural environment and understand that a healthy environment is inextricably linked to the health of individuals, families, future generations and communities;

AND WHEREAS fostering the environmental well being of the community is a municipal purpose under section 7(d) of the Community Charter and a regional district purpose under section 2(d) of the Local Government Act:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that:

1) Every resident has the right to live in a healthy environment, including the right to: a) breathe clean air, b) drink clean water, c) consume safe food, d) access nature, e) know about pollutants and contaminants released into the local environment, and f) participate in decision making that will affect the environment;

2) Local governments have the authority, within its jurisdiction, to respect, protect, fulfill and promote these rights;

3) Local governments will consider the precautionary principle when making decisions: where threats of serious or irreversible damage to human health or the environment exist, the City of Port Moody will consider cost effective measures to prevent the degradation of the environment and protect the health of its citizens, and the absence of full scientific certainty will not be viewed as sufficient reason for the City of Port Moody to postpone such measures;

4) Local governments will apply full cost accounting when evaluating reasonably foreseeable costs of proposed actions and alternatives, the City of Port Moody will consider costs to human health and the environment;

5) By 2016, local governments will specify objectives, targets, timelines and actions, within their jurisdiction, to address the residents’ right to a healthy environment under section 1, including priority actions to: a) ensure infrastructure and development projects of local government and the private

sector respect the objective of protecting the environment, including air quality; b) address climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and implementing

adaptation measures; c) prioritize walking, cycling and public transit as preferred modes of transportation; d) prioritize infrastructure and protected water sources for the provision of safe and

accessible drinking water; e) reduce solid waste and promote recycling, re-use and composting; f) establish and maintain accessible green spaces in all residential neighbourhoods, and

protect and conserve nature in public open spaces; 6) Local governments will review the objectives, targets, timelines and actions of their healthy

environment policy every five (5) years, and measure progress toward fulfilling this Declaration; and

7) Local governments will consult with residents as part of this process.


207




C19 DECLARATION OF THE RIGHT TO A North Saanich HEALTHY ENVIRONMENT

WHEREAS the David Suzuki Foundation Blue Dot Tour has inspired many Canadians to request hat the right to a healthy environment be enshrined in the Charter of Rights and Freedoms through support of the following motion;

AND WHEREAS the District of North Saanich understands that people are part of the environment and that a healthy environment is inextricably linked to the well-being of our community;

AND WHEREAS the North Saanich Official Community Plan provides a strong policy foundation to pursue actions and initiatives that contribute toward a healthy environment;

AND WHEREAS North Saanich has the opportunity to endorse the Declaration of the Right to a Healthy Environment, joining other Canadian cities in re-affirming our commitment to social, environmental and economic sustainability;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM endorse the following declaration:

That all people have the right to live in a healthy environment, including:

• the right to breathe clean air; • the right to drink clean water; • the right to consume safe food; • the right to access nature; • the right to know about pollutants and contaminants released into the local environment; and • the right to participate in decision-making that will affect the environment.





C20 REVIEW OF SITE C BY BC UTILITIES COMMISSION Hudson’s Hope WHEREAS the Environmental Assessment Joint Review Panel, the only independent agency to review the recently endorsed Site C project, recommended that Site C be referred to the BC Utilities Commission;

208

AND WHEREAS construction of this major project would:

• have a major impact on electricity rates throughout the province, • use up considerable provincial borrowing room, thus reducing borrowing capacity for other

public infrastructure, and • deny British Columbians an open, transparent, independent and expert review of the

economics of the project:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request the Province to follow the recommendations of its Joint Review Panel and refer the Site C project to the BC Utilities Commission for review of the need for, cost of, and alternatives to this project.





C21 LIQUEFIED NATURAL GAS SITING Skeena-Queen Charlotte RD STANDARDS AND BEST PRACTICES

WHEREAS the Province of BC has embarked on an ambitious promotion of liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports;

AND WHEREAS the Province of BC has stated that the LNG export industry will be world leading using industry best practices;

AND WHEREAS the Province of BC has a lead role in ensuring that public interest is protected:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request the provincial government to work with communities to clearly define what “world leading” represents, and which industry best practices shall be accepted in BC.





C22 MARINE-RELATED EMERGENCY Skeena-Queen Charlotte RD RESPONSE STANDARDS

WHEREAS coastal local governments in BC are subject to increasing risk factors associated with the shipment and distribution of natural resources by way of marine transportation;

AND WHEREAS local, provincial and federal government have a shared interest and responsibility for the preparation and response to marine-related environmental emergencies in BC;

209

AND WHEREAS, pursuant to the Canada Shipping Act, the Minister of Transport may issue standards for response organizations, including specifications and technical and operational requirements:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request the provincial and federal governments to clearly define “world leading” and “industry standard”.





C23 OIL SPILL EMERGENCY RESPONSE COORDINATION Burnaby AND SUPPORT FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENTS

WHEREAS demonstrated oil spill emergency response times for the April 8, 2015 English Bay oil spill have been uncoordinated and inadequate;

AND WHEREAS there is need for a national, transparent, independent emergency response agency;

AND WHEREAS local governments currently do not have access to sufficient resources to compensate for the mobilization costs of response services related to emergencies of this nature;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities call upon the federal government to develop a comprehensive emergency response plan and procedure for oil spill related emergencies that includes due recognition of and compensation for the role of local government emergency response services.





C24 TIMBER SUPPLY Vanderhoof WHEREAS forest resource inventories of all forested areas in timber supply areas include information on species compensation, age, and ecosystem types;

AND WHEREAS accurate forest resource inventories are necessary for stable fibre supplies, which is vital to many communities’ economic wellbeing:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Province of British Columbia commit the funds required for accurate forest resource inventories.


210




C25 MENTAL HEALTH AND ADDICTIONS DRAIN ON Terrace POLICING RESOURCES

WHEREAS policing resources are being extensively utilized to deal with mental health and addictions issues across the province;

AND WHEREAS this drain on policing resources makes it challenging for police services to focus on their primary responsibilities of preventing and investigating crime, and maintaining peace and order in our communities:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM call on the provincial government to ensure that the level of resourcing and facilities for providing mental health and addiction services are increased throughout the province to allow for improved access and treatment for those suffering from mental health issues, including addictions.





C26 MENTAL HEALTH Central Kootenay RD WHEREAS mental health is a growing concern in the Province of BC and was a topic at the BC Mayor’s Caucus:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM be requested to work with the Ministry of Health to consider establishing a provincial task force to investigate funding levels, treatment and management of persons in emotional distress or who have active and pervasive mental health disorders.





C27 SEAMLESS PATH ALONG THE RECOVERY TRAJECTORY Maple Ridge WHEREAS the difficult path of an individual to successful recovery from addictions and concurrent disorders requires a continuum of care that this is presently inconsistent or often unavailable;

AND WHEREAS accessibility of a continuum of care, through detox (when required), to treatment and to ongoing supports must be available when an individual is ready, and without gaps between these services so that recovery is more attainable:

211

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request that the Province take the required actions, including funding, to ensure true, and timely, accessibility to detox, treatment and related supports to ensure an individual a seamless path to recovery.





C28 INCREASE COMMUNITY HEALTH SUPPORTS FOR AVICC Executive MENTAL HEALTH

WHEREAS support for community health services, such as integrated mental health diagnoses and treatment, have failed to keep pace with the needs of our communities;

AND WHEREAS intervening and responding to mental health crises places a growing demand on policing services, which are funded by local governments in many communities, and which are not structured or intended to be used as health care providers:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request that the Province of British Columbia increase the funding to health organizations to provide additional community health resources, and work with policing bodies to implement integrated response plans for mental health crises.





C29 FORTISBC—TWO TIERED RATES Okanagan-Similkameen RD WHEREAS FortisBC rate increases are causing significant hardship to people in areas where there is no access to natural gas as they are seeing huge increases in power bills;

AND WHEREAS the two tier billing system of tier one up to 1,600 kilowatt hours (9.093 cents) and tier two over 1,600 kilowatt hours (13.543 cents) is unrealistic for consumers;

AND WHEREAS due to the challenge customers face with rising energy costs, heating and electricity have become a luxury for some British Columbia residents, especially in the Okanagan-Similkameen:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request the provincial government and the British Columbia Utilities Commission eliminate the two tiered rate structure and charge customers at the lower rate, until a remedy can be found for users of electric heat who have no affordable alternative to their current inefficient home heating system.


212




C30 BC POVERTY REDUCTION PLAN Surrey WHEREAS British Columbia is one of the only two provinces in Canada without a provincial poverty reduction plan;

AND WHEREAS British Columbia has one of the highest rates of child poverty in Canada, such that 20.6 per cent of BC children ages 0-17 years live below the poverty line:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request that the Province of British Columbia adopt a provincial poverty reduction plan.





C31 HOMELESSNESS PARTNERING STRATEGY FUNDING Maple Ridge CRITERIA CHANGE AND IMPACT TO LOCAL SERVICES DELIVERY

WHEREAS Housing First programs have been successful in certain communities as an intervention model designed to quickly rehouse a specific population;

AND WHEREAS considerable investment in this model has resulted in divestment in communities where capacity is limited and reduced investment in other types of housing services and supports for specific populations:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Federation of Canadian Municipalities request that the criteria for next phase of Homelessness Partnering Strategy funding consider a broad range of factors including community capacity and the specific needs of individuals who are homeless or at risk of homelessness with particular focus on special populations like youth, women fleeing violence, seniors and First Nations.





213

C32 WORKERS COMPENSATION ACT PRESUMPTIVE CLAUSE Colwood FOR FIRST RESPONDERS

WHEREAS many first responders have been affected by the mental health injury post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD);

AND WHEREAS there is a need to change the WorkSafe BC language to include a presumptive clause, as it is possible that within a first responder’s duties they will encounter horrific acts, and develop a mental health injury:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that a two month deadline be implemented for WorkSafe BC to make a decision regarding a mental health injury claim based on one report by a psychologist and/or psychiatrist, and whether to provide benefits;

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a presumptive clause and consequential changes be added to the Workers Compensation Act.





C33 WORKERS COMPENSATION ACT PRESUMPTIVE CLAUSE Langford FOR FIRST RESPONDERS

WHEREAS first responders will include 9-1-1 operators, paramedics, firefighters, peace officers, police officers, sheriffs and corrections officers;

AND WHEREAS many first responders have been affected by a mental health injury/disorder - thus replacing "PTSD" with "mental health injury":

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that there is a need to change the Workers Compensation Act under Section 5.1 to add a presumptive clause, as it is possible that within first responders' duties, they will encounter horrific acts and develop a mental health injury;

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that that a two month maximum deadline be implemented when making a decisions, at any decision point of the claim regarding a mental health injury claim based on one psychologist and/or one psychiatrist report;

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that upon receipt of a mental health injury claim, the worker receives immediate, financial benefits and treatment, with the understanding and agreement of the worker, their specialist and WorkSafe BC, that if it is proven that the injury was not as a result of their duties of employment, there will be a repayment plan for costs;

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that when the worker is "fit to return to work or retraining" there will be a follow up plan to be agreed upon by WorkSafe BC, the specialist and worker;

214

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that under Policy 97.34, Conflict of Medical Opinion, the probable difference of opinion shall be discussed with the physicians (refer to the treating physician or specialists) involved, and if it is concluded there is doubt on any issues, the Board must follow the mandate of s. 99 of Workers Compensation Act and resolve that issue in a manner that favours the worker.





C34 WORKERS COMPENSATION ACT PRESUMPTIVE CLAUSE Esquimalt FOR FIRST RESPONDERS

WHEREAS first responders will include 9-1-1 operators, paramedics, firefighters, peace officers, police officers, sheriffs and corrections officers; and many first responders have been affected by a mental health injury/disorder - thus replacing "PTSD" with "mental health injury":

AND WHEREAS there is a need to change the Workers Compensation Act under Section 5.1 to add a presumptive clause, as it is possible that within first responders' duties, they will encounter horrific acts and develop a mental health injury:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that a two month maximum deadline be implemented when making a decision, at any decision point of the claim regarding a mental health injury claim based on one psychologist and/or one psychiatrist report;

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that upon receipt of a mental health injury claim, the worker should receive immediate financial benefits and treatment, with the understanding and agreement of the worker, their specialist and WorkSafe BC that if it is proven that the injury was not as a result of their duties of employment, there will be a repayment plan for costs;

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that when the worker is “fit to return to work or retraining” there will be a follow up plan to be agreed upon by WorkSafe BC, the specialist and the worker;

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that under Policy 97.34, Conflict of Medical Opinion, the probable difference of opinion shall be discussed with the physicians (refer to the treating physician or specialists) involved, and if it is concluded that there is doubt on any issues, the board must follow the mandate of s. 99 of the Workers Compensation Act and resolve that issue in a manner that favours the worker;

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Province of British Columbia add new legislative language to Section 5.1 of the Workers Compensation Act, adding a presumptive clause for mental health injuries as set forth in this resolution, to ensure the wellbeing of all first responders who have sustained a mental health injury.


215




C35 OPTIONAL ELECTRIC VEHICLE INFRASTRUCTURE Esquimalt WHEREAS electric vehicles significantly reduce green house gases emitted to the atmosphere and the adoption of electric vehicles is dependent upon the availability of electric vehicle infrastructure;

AND WHEREAS there are currently no provisions in the Green BC Building Code or local zoning bylaws for electrical supply points for electric vehicles and it is costly to retrofit electrical conduit or cable in buildings or on properties that have already been constructed or developed:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request that the Government of British Columbia consider an addition to the Green (opt-in) provisions of the BC Building Code to provide:

a) for a rough-in electrical raceway or cable, and electrical panel capacity to accommodate a future Level 2, minimum 40 amp electrical circuit for each dwelling unit of one an two family buildings that have parking spaces; and

b) that each one of 20% of the parking spaces that are required for use by owners or occupier of dwelling units in multiple family buildings be provided with a roughed-in electrical raceway or cable, electrical panel capacity and sufficient space in the electrical room to accommodate a future Level 2, minimum 40 amp electrical circuit and that the electrical room shall include equipment space and panel capacity for 100% of the required resident spaces;

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that UBCM request that the Government of British Columbia consider a revision to Part 26, Section 906(1)(a) of the Local Government Act to “provide spaces and charging infrastructure for use by plug-in electric vehicles,” and a revision to Section 906(1)(b) to include “designation” of the parking spaces.





C36 IMPLEMENT TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION COMMISSION Cariboo RD RECOMMENDATIONS

WHEREAS the Truth and Reconciliation Commission released its summary report on Indian residential schools in Canada on June 2, 2015;

AND WHEREAS the summary report contains 94 recommendations to achieve reconciliation with aboriginal and non-aboriginal Canadians;

AND WHEREAS the summary report calls upon all levels of government and all Canadians to work together to secure a better future for all:

216

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM call upon all levels of government to implement the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in as timely a manner as practical.





217

Section C3 C37 ICET FUNDING Campbell River

Strathcona RD Port McNeill

WHEREAS the Island Coastal Economic Trust (ICET) has expended nearly all of its original capitalization;

AND WHEREAS the $50 million fund has been the key factor enabling ICET to leverage significant levels of other government, nongovernment and private sector funding resulting in important gains for the people, businesses and communities in the AVICC region:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that AVICC petition the provincial government to renew the Island Coastal Economic Trust by recapitalizing the Trust to its original level.


UBCM RESOLUTIONS COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION: Refer Back to Area Association


The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting that the provincial government provide further funding for the Island Coastal Economic Trust.

C38 VANCOUVER ISLAND COORDINATED SOLID Campbell River WASTE STRATEGY Strathcona RD

WHEREAS regional districts on Vancouver Island are struggling with the financial implications of managing solid waste, and the demand for diversion programs is increasing:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Association of Vancouver Island and Coastal Communities undertake an assessment to determine the feasibility of a Vancouver Island and coastal communities solid waste service.




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting the AVICC to undertake a feasibility study on implementing a solid waste service serving all of Vancouver Island.

218

C39 DISCOURAGING PORT METRO VANCOUVER FROM Richmond EXPANDING ON AGRICULTURAL LANDS

WHEREAS the Canada Marine Act (e.g., through Letters Patent and pursuant to the Port Authorities Management Regulations) allows Port Metro Vancouver (PMV) to undertake port activities including the shipping, navigation, transporting and handling of goods and passengers, including managing, leasing, licensing, acquiring and disposing of lands for the purposes of operating and supporting port operations;

AND WHEREAS PMV has purchased land in the BC Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) in the City of Richmond, totalling 241.51 acres, which over time it intends to develop for port purposes and these ALR land purchases have been authorized by the issuance of Supplementary Letters of Patent signed by the Minister of Transport Canada;

AND WHEREAS the City of Richmond has advised PMV that it continues to strongly object to its Land Use Plan, as it does not protect ALR land, and has requested the PMV Board to delete the “Special Study Areas’ located within ALR in the City of Richmond, and create a policy which prohibits the expansion of PMV operations on all ALR lands;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Lower Mainland Local Government Association (LMLGA) and the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) call on the federal government and the Minister of Transport Canada, through the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) and other avenues as appropriate, to:

• Request the Minister of Transport Canada to rescind the March 24, 2009 Supplementary Letter of Patent (attached) issued by the Honourable John Baird, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, which authorized the transfer of the 229.34 acre Agricultural Lands real property, described in this Supplementary Letter of Patent, from A.C. Gilmore & Sons (Farms) Ltd. to PMV, and order the PMV Board to dispose of this real ALR property and other real ALR properties, currently designated in their Plan as ‘Special Study Areas’, for agricultural purposes, at fair market value;

• Request the Minister of Transport Canada, by way of regulatory changes (e.g., to the Canada Marine Act, the Port Authorities Management Regulations and Letters of Patent), to prohibit the PMV and its subsidiaries, from purchasing any ALR land in the City of Richmond and within the Metro Vancouver region, for port purposes; and,

• Request the Minister of Transport Canada to require PMV to establish, with the local governments located within the area in which it operates, a meaningful consultation process and a formal dispute resolution process to address Municipal/PMV issues arising from its operations and activities.




The Resolutions Committee advises that the UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting that the federal government prohibit the acquisition by port corporations of land in the BC Agricultural Land Reserve for non-agricultural, port purposes.

The Committee would observe that the issue as stated in the resolution is specific to Port Metro Vancouver and therefore regional in nature.

2015 UBCM Resolutionsand~Policy/Resolutions/20… · Report of the 2015 Resolutions Committee All...

Documents

Transcript of 2015 UBCM Resolutionsand~Policy/Resolutions/20… · Report of the 2015 Resolutions Committee All...