Whereas the provincial and federal environmental assessment processes are not the direct jurisdiction of local governments and therefore not subject to associated service cost recovery fees; And whereas environmental assessment processes, while of critical importance to communities, are very time-consuming, expensive, and onerous for local government staff, community, and council: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM ask the Province to establish proponent fees to support the participation of local governments in environmental assessment processes, including compensation associated with the research and review of applications, participation in technical and working groups, augmented community engagement, and post-decision regulatory processes should a project Certificate be issued.
