Whereas local governments are currently not prioritized in the Provincial Enhanced Referral Process that matches ministry and agency demands with existing surplus properties during the Provincial land disposition process; And whereas the opportunity to access lands that are being disposed by the Provincial Government would further the ability of local governments to pursue community planning, economic diversification, and asset management efforts within their communities: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM lobby the provincial government to consider and prioritize local governments and Indigenous governments in the Provincial Enhanced Referral Process when lands are being disposed of in communities.
Ministry of Citizens Services Planning in government focuses on the provision of public services to achieve a variety of social and economic goals as defined by government. To advance this goal, ministries are tasked with providing for economic, efficient and effective use of resources including land required to deliver services to people across the province. Ministry planning processes and activities are conducted in accordance with legislation and Treasury Board policy. The Ministry of Citizens Services CITZ Surplus Properties Program helps ministries and broader public sector entities achieve their planning obligations and matches provincial service needs with existing provincial lands. Following a needs assessment, which may confirm a propertys surplus status, CITZs Surplus Properties Program guides ministries on consultation with First Nations and local governments. Ministries are directed as part of their due diligence process to ensure the local municipalities are made aware of any potential disposition and are provided an opportunity to express interest in the surplus property. The sale of 2145 Butler Avenue, Houston is a good example of the Surplus Properties Program process. Following a needs assessment and First Nation consultation, CITZ engaged with District of Houston staff to facilitate a direct sale of the surplus property to the municipality in June 2023.