Messages from the UBCM President, general advocacy communications, and information about Local Government Week.
UBCM’s board members extend their deepest condolences to the residents of Tumbler Ridge in the wake of the shootings at its high school yesterday. We join all British Columbians today in sorrow for those who lost their lives, those who were injured, and for the trauma experienced by survivors, first responders and the community.
BC’s decriminalization pilot will come to an end on January 31, 2026. The aim of this initiative was to address the overdose crisis by removing stigma that prevents individuals from seeking life-saving support and treatment.
UBCM has released the 2024 Outcomes Report, covering results of Canada Community-Building Fund (CCBF) investments in BC from January 1 to December 31, 2024. This is the first outcomes report under the renewed agreement, which will transfer $3.6 billion to BC communities over 10 years. New this year, the report demonstrates how regular investment in infrastructure is helping to address housing pressures across British Columbia.
UBCM is sad to note the passing of Keith Thom, councillor and deputy mayor of Peachland.
“Keith was far more than a colleague – he was a dear friend, a steady presence, and a passionate ambassador for our town of Peachland. Over years of service – both on Council and in the community – he touched countless lives through his warmth, his music, his generous spirit, and his dedication,” wrote the mayor and councillors in a statement.
UBCM members overwhelmingly support a pause to legislative development to allow for
face to face consultation.
We are sad to note the passing of Mary Sjostrom, a longstanding local elected official and former UBCM President. Mary was a councillor in Quesnel before becoming the City’s first female mayor. She went on to serve as an Electoral Area Director for the Cariboo Regional District.
Mary served in various positions on the UBCM Executive from 2004 to 2014, including a term as President in the 2012-2013 year.
With thanks to all the nominees, UBCM is pleased to present your 2025-2026 Executive team:
UBCM membership adopted the 2025 Annual Report and Financial Reports at the 2025 Convention. Executive Director Gary MacIsaac presented a summary of the past year at UBCM.
Read the Annual Report in full.
UBCM issued a press release this morning calling on the Province to pause progress on changes to the Heritage Conservation Act until meaningful consultation can be conducted with local governments.
UBCM Resolutions are an essential part of local government advocacy in BC. Each year hundreds of issues are raised for debate at the UBCM Convention. The volume is an indicator of the wide range of issues that communities deal with – but the sheer number poses some challenges. UBCM Executive is proposing a new framework to streamline the process.