Grace Baker

Union of BC Municipalities

The Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) was formed to provide a common voice for local government and this role is as important today as it was 100 years ago. The UBCM reflects the truth in the old adages "strength in numbers" and "united we stand - divided we fall". Convention continues to be the main forum for UBCM policy-making. It provides an opportunity for local governments of all sizes and from all areas of the province to come together, share their experiences and take a united position. Positions developed by members are carried to other orders of government and other organizations involved in local affairs. Policy implementation activities have expanded from annual presentations to Cabinet to UBCM involvement in intergovernmental committees, regular meetings with Ministers and contact on a daily basis with senior government. In today's ever-changing world, where shifts in senior government policies, or in economic, social or political conditions, can have an immediate effect on local government, UBCM stands as a "listening post". UBCM initiates, monitors, interprets and reacts where such changes could have an effect on local governments and the communities they serve. The result is improved local government and BC's communities are the real winners. Through the UBCM, local government has achieved much, and the potential is always there to achieve even more.