Union of BC Municipalities conference to kick off in Vancouver, record-breaking registration
Posted September 17, 2023 6:01 pm.
Last Updated September 17, 2023 9:14 pm.
The Union of BC Municipalities’ (UBCM) annual conference begins in Vancouver tomorrow, and UBCM President Jen Ford says this year’s conference promises to be a critical one.
“Every convention is important, but this year there are a number of overlapping, intersecting crises in this province,” Ford said.
She says the conference has attracted a “high level of interest” from local governments who are seeking solutions to issues within their communities.
This year’s conference has hit a record number of registrations, demonstrating local governments are ready to “roll up their sleeves and get some real solutions for B.C.,” Ford said.
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She says this year’s hot topics are expected to include wildfire mitigation, housing and decriminalization.
With so many new councillors and mayors, Ford says she predicts it’s “…going to be a fascinating week.”
The theme of this year’s conference is “Balancing Acts,” which Ford says she hopes will inspire attendees searching for solutions to issues such as the housing crisis.
“There’s no single solution that will solve all the housing problems in every community, but there are many solutions that need to be addressed and we’re trying to find the balance.”
She said she hopes this year’s conference demonstrates to the province that local government is “here and ready to work.”
The conference will last for five days, concluding on Sept. 22.
