2023 Convention is packed with sessions for local government leaders and staff starting bright and early Monday morning at pre-convention workshops.
The BC Treaty Commission will give updates on four modern treaty negotiations and highlight opportunities for local governments to engage in reconciliation. A workshop on UNDRIP will give guidance for local governments to implement the Declaration. Three BC communities will host an open conversation on decriminalization and public use, considering the complex issues of the drug toxicity crisis, decriminalization, stigma, and public substance use. A panel of economic development staff will share examples of resilient communities that have implemented innovative initiatives, and opportunities for programs to invigorate local economic development. UBCM’s funding program staff will host an open house on funding resources and tools for local government, with representatives from 25 agencies. A housing-focused session will explore what it takes to deliver housing while balancing broader community objectives in a rapidly evolving policy context. New this year is a mindfulness and health stream, starting with a session on stress reduction for local government leaders. Beyond balance: bypassing barriers, is a session focused on the experience of women and gender diverse folks in politics.
And that’s all just on Monday! The rest of the week has sessions on: collaborating with school boards; search and rescue partnerships; strengthening democracy; updating the public hearing process; climate action; forest management; fire prevention; planning in floodplain zones; collaborative approaches to addressing homelessness; non-profit housing strategies; digital permitting; using artificial intelligence; cybersecurity; natural asset management; emergency management regulations; public safety and policing; next generation 911; legislative reform; festival and event collaboration; clean transportation planning, and more.
View the full program. Note: registration closes September 8.