UBCM Newsletter Header
News and information from the Union of BC Municipalities
March 6, 2013
divider line

Antenna Siting Protocol Established  


The growing demand for wireless connectivity has often resulted in conflicts between local governments and proponents looking to locate antenna systems within communities. As such, FCM and the Canadian Wireless Telecommunications Association (CWTA) have announced that a joint protocol has been reached for the siting process of wireless antenna systems.  Read More

MMBC Releases Updated PPP Stewardship Plan to Province  


Multi-Material BC (MMBC) submitted an updated Packaging and Printed Paper (PPP) plan to the Ministry of Environment on February 25. This plan has been updated to clarify components from the written submissions that were received from stakeholders; and to clarify how the plan addresses requirements of the Recycling Regulation in response to questions posed by representatives of the Ministry of Environment.  Read More
Transport Canada Report Conveys Extent of Abandoned and Derelict Vessels in Canada

 

On February 21, Transport Canada released a long awaited study on the extent of abandoned and derelict vessels in Canada. UBCM members provided feedback for this study in January 2012. At that time, members were asked to complete a survey to provide Transport Canada with information on the extent of the problem in BC, local government concerns, and potential solutions to address the issue. UBCM will provide further analysis and discussion on this report in the coming weeks.  

Read More  

Justice System Reform and Community Safety Plan Under Consideration

 

The Province has released the second part of its paper regarding justice system reform, titled White Paper on Justice Reform, Part Two: A Timely and Balanced Justice System.  The paper proposes the expansion of Justice Access Centres, which provide a single point of entry for family and civil justice services. It also outlines a preliminary "BC Policing and Community Safety Plan" for consultation, with the intention of finalizing a plan by March 2015.  Read More

Local Government Awareness Week Dates Announced

 

Local Government Awareness Week (LGAW) will take place May 19-25, 2013 in conjunction with National Public Works Week. The goal for the week is to generate awareness and educate the public about the roles and responsibilities of local government, and encourage the public to participate in local government processes.  Read More
Taxi Fare Changes to Take Effect March 31st

 

The Passenger Transportation Board has prepared a Municipal Advisory for Chief Administrative Officers regarding upcoming changes for taxi fares in British Columbia, reflecting the change from the 12% HST to 5% GST.  At the same time, the Passenger Transportation Board is implementing a Taxi Cost Index ("TCI") rate increase of 1.9%.  Taxi companies in British Columbia must implement these changes on March 31, 2013.  However, they have the option of declining the 1.9% rate increase by March 22, 2013.  

 

UBCM Logo
Events

RD CEO/CAO Forum
March 19 - 20, 2013
Victoria, BC

UBCM Benefits Conference
April 18 - 19, 2013
Richmond, BC

Local Government Awareness Week
May 19-25, 2013


 

© Copyright Union of British Columbia Municipalities 2013