Premier Campbell, good stories but not much details
To start the morning off, we heard from the Honourable Stockwell Day from the Federal Government . Minister Day's comments were very insightful about the situation we are all facing as we come out of this global financial recession. I was impressed with his comments, of course we did not hear about any new partnerships or details that municipal leaders could bring home. However, I was impressed with Ministers Day's knowledge of the global and local economies and how we need to be working together.
After Minster Day's speech the Resolutions Committee took the stage. Our goal was to move through the remainder of the resolutions, for details on the resolutions go to the UBCM website . I had my opportunity to chair the Resolution process. It was exciting chairing a meeting of over 300 politicians; it was a test of my Roberts Rules of Order skills. All went well. After the two hour session we were able to get through all 155 resolutions! This was the first time in recent history. I am proud of the Resolutions Committee team, Chair Mayor Sharon Gaetz, Vice Chair Councillor Barbra Steele, Mayor Chris Causton and Director Heath Slee.
Next up was the address from Premier Campbell. As you have probably read in the newspaper, the Premier spent the first 15 to 20 minutes reminiscing about the Olympics. Although I wanted to hear the new announcement for local government, I enjoyed remembering the Olympics. Next, the Premier with great humility admitted that the handling of the implementation of the HST was not good. In fact, he said they landed flat on their face. However, he still believes it is the right choice and a good and fair revenue source and that he will defend the tax. It will be up to British Columbians to make the final decision during the referendum next September.
The Premier then went into a long list of already announced programs, such as funding for the Evergreen Line and the opening date of 2014; he also provided some insight into new projects, such as the commissioning of three new totem poles for the BC Legislature that will depict the Olympic experience and maintaining access to resource roads. For a full list of details go to the BC Government website .
By the end of the day I was exhausted, this was the best UBCM Conference I have participated in. It was a week of learning, networking and lobbying. We made some good progress on all fronts. I am proud of our local team for embracing the conference and making the most out of it, I think we will be a stronger team because of it.
