WHEREAS many water management and access priorities have changed since the first enactment of the Water Act, including the introduction of groundwater regulation, development of priority user access and inclusion of local governments in water access permitting and enforcement; AND WHEREAS local government has not previously been involved in the management of water resources in British Columbia and local government involvement in the development of the Water Sustainability Act is of paramount importance: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that input and involvement of local government, through the UBCM, be active and ongoing as the Water Sustainability Act is developed and new water management roles are created.
Ministry of Environment The Province has been engaging UBCM and local governments on Water Act modernization since 2008 through regional workshops, discussion papers, UBCM forums, teleconferences and the Living Water Smart Blog. To date, the Province has received over 50 written submissions from local governments. In response to engagement efforts, many stakeholders, including local governments, have requested the opportunity to review more detailed policies. Accordingly, the provincial government has committed to take more time to further engage with British Columbians on draft legislation in 2012 before it is finalized. We will continue to work closely with UBCM staff to identify options and opportunities to engage with local governments throughout 2012. The Province will continue to respect the Protocol it signed with UBCM in 2001 including its commitment to consult with UBCM and local governments on changes to environmental legislation, regulations, standards, policies or programs. Ministry staff are also working closely with the Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development to ensure the proposed Water Sustainability Act will meet the needs of local government.