The Regional District of Nanaimo is supporting the call to have the Union of British Columbia Municipalities governance structure reviewed.
The Fraser Valley Regional District sent a correspondence to the RDN about a request letter that UBCM initiate a comprehensive governance review. It was discussed by the RDN board at its regular meeting on Nov. 26.
The letter, written by FVRD chair Jason Lum, highlighted the significant challenges British Columbia has faced over the past decade that include housing affordability, a strained healthcare system, a sluggish economy, labour market shortages, climate disruption, the toxic drug crisis and growing concerns about food insecurity.
"These pressing issues require the collective effort of all regions of the province, and as we continue to address them, it is increasingly important that the UBCM executive reflects the full scope and diversity of all British Columbia’s local governments and First Nations," Lum stated in his letter.
Lum pointed out this an opportune time to revisit UBCM’s governance structure which was last reviewed in 2010. The diverse needs of rural and remote regions, Lum added, "underscores the need for an updated governance structure that more effectively represents all areas of the province."
Updating the UBCM's bylaws and governance framework, Lum pointed out will ensure a more balanced and equitable representation from all regions that would bring rural and urban perspectives to the table on a regular and sustained basis.
"A renewed structure would better enable UBCM to advocate effectively for the interests of all British Columbians, ensuring that no region is left behind in policy development and decision-making processes."
Nanaimo director Tyler Brown made a motion for the RDN to write a letter to the UBCM in support of Lum's request for a governance review.
Nanaimo director Ben Geselbracht, who is the Association of Vancouver Island and Coastal Communities representative to the UBCM board, confirmed that Lum's letter was received and that internal discussions have been taking place. He commented the board feels there's inequity and the need to make some specific changes.
Parksville director Sean Wood supports Lum's letter but would prefer to know first what is wrong with the current configuration and what improvements they want to make. As well, having served as a member of the UBCM board last year, he pointed out while there might be some resolutions that fail to get passed, "it's less to do with the makeup of the board and more to do with what staff think will get some traction with the province. And so, I think, the spirit here is more about prioritizing resolutions and less to do with the makeup of the board."
The board passed Brown's motion with Electoral Area G (French Creek, San Pareil, Little Qualicum, Englishman River) director Lehann Wallace opposed.
