WHEREAS all local governments in British Columbia benefit from the funding and expertise of Heritage BC, and other heritage focused organizations and initiatives, to protect unique heritage resources and support community projects; AND WHEREAS heritage conservation is vital to maintain a sense of place distinctive to each community that is a positive investment in the local economy and a stimulus to tourism: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM call on the provincial government to restore the Heritage Branch budget, and to implement Heritage BCs call for renewal of provincial heritage programs.
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations The Province appreciates the important role that communities play in conserving British Columbias historic places. Planning staff are allocated to provide advice and training to local governments throughout BC. In addition, the Province has increased the Heritage Branch budget allocation by 21 million over three years for the Provincial Heritage Properties for operations, deferred maintenance, and public health and safety. The Province recognizes that local governments benefit from the role of Heritage BC and other heritage organizations in providing expertise and funding for heritage conservation. In response to calls for provincial leadership on the issue, British Columbia has provided funding support to Heritage BC in developing a new strategy and is working with them to consider the most effective business model for the organization in the future. The Province continues to work towards solutions that are effective, efficient and build on the achievements made by heritage-focused public organizations, local governments, business and industry towards strengthening heritage conservation in British Columbia.