The 109th Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM) Convention begins on Monday at the Victoria Conference Centre. The 2012 Convention theme of In Conversation will see more than 1,500 delegates focusing on communication, partnerships and relationships as they strive for effective and clear messaging, ensuring they are hearing what the community is saying, and effectively using the multitude of tools available today. The Convention will take place Monday, September 24 to Friday, September 28.
Similkameen delegates will have the opportunity to participate in nearly 50 workshops, clinics and forums including UBCM’s first debate on decriminalization of marijuana and a special session dedicated to local government finance taking place on Monday.
Delegates will be exposed to a debate on the decriminalization of marijuana on Monday, followed by further debate over Resolution A5 on Wednesday morning.
Resolution A5 asks the membership to support decriminalization of marijuana. This is the first time the UBCM membership has considered a resolution representing the decriminalization of marijuana.
Municipal officials will also look at local government finance – “Matching Revenues and Responsibilities” in a session which will delve into the most pressing challenges facing local government by examining local government services and financing tools in various jurisdictions, both nationally and internationally. Delegates will deal with questions including: How can local governments meet service demands in an era of taxpayer fatigue? Have revenue tools kept pace with changes in local government servicing responsibilities? Are there realistic and viable alternatives to property taxes for local government? Where do grant funds fit into the equation?
The Union of B.C. Municipalities was formed in 1905 to provide a common voice for local government.
The UBCM continues to follow that mandate today. Through its resolution sessions, the annual convention provides a platform for local government leaders to establish policy directions for UBCM’s activities over the coming year.
(Full Convention agendas available in UBCM Media Center or at www.ubcm.ca)