WHEREAS effective local government decision-making requires substantial knowledge of provincial plans and activities; AND WHEREAS local governments sometimes encounter difficulties acquiring this knowledge from provincial ministries therefore being required to use methods such as Freedom of Information requests: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM urge the provincial government to review its communication policy and procedures with a view to fostering a timelier and more cooperative partnership with local governments.
Ministry of Community, Sport Cultural Development The Province of British Columbias view is that consultation with local governments is a key principle of local-provincial relations. The provincial responsibility to consult is laid out in the two key local government statutes, the Community Charter and Local Government Act. Of particular note is section 276 of the Community Charter, which identifies areas of provincial legislation and policy for which the Minister responsible must consult with local governments through UBCM.