Local Government System Organizations
Last updated on July 8, 2021The success and resiliency of B.C.'s municipalities and regional districts depend on collaboration with and through organizations in the local government system. The emphasis on collaboration in B.C.’s local government system is one way it is distinct from many other jurisdictions.
System organizations are a key resource for local government elected officials and staff. They provide local governments with opportunities to collaborate, co-operate and build relationships with the organizations and with each other. In some cases, they perform functions collectively on behalf of local governments that municipalities and regional districts could not do – or not do as effectively – on their own.
In addition to these organizations, there are also other organizations that perform key roles in the local government system, including Government Finance Officers Association of British Columbia (GFOABC), BC Assessment and the Board of Examiners.
Union of British Columbia Municipalities
The Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM) represents and serves all local governments in B.C. Formed in 1905, UBCM provides a common voice for local governments represented by their elected officials. In addition to advocating policy positions of its members, UBCM represents a local government perspective in consultations on changes to key Provincial legislation and policies and delivers grant programs and other services to local governments
Local Government Management Association
The Local Government Management Association (LGMA) provides professional development and resources for local government administrators and staff. Since 1919, the LGMA has promoted professional management, leadership and awareness of the role of local government officers.
Local Government Leadership Academy
The Local Government Leadership Academy (LGLA) is a leadership development initiative for local government and First Nations elected officials and senior administrators to help improve the needed competencies to effectively manage and lead B.C.’s communities. Founded as a partnership of a number of system organizations and others, LGLA holds annual forums and sessions for newly and returning elected officials after general local elections, as well as providing a certificate program for elected officials.
Municipal Finance Authority
The Municipal Finance Authority (MFA) is the key agency that borrows on behalf of local governments and provide flexible financial services to local governments such as investment management, leasing, and interim financing. The MFA is created by legislation but owned by its members. MFA is a vital to the soundness of local government finances in B.C.
Municipal Insurance Association
The Municipal Insurance Association (MIA) is a non-profit insurance cooperative owned by local governments. MIA pools common risks for its local government members to provide them with liability insurance coverage. In addition to providing insurance coverage, the MIA also offers risk management education and resources.
CivicInfo BC
CivicInfo BC is the information hub for local governments. It facilitates the open exchange of information and resources important to local governments themselves, agencies who work with them as well as those with an interest in the local government sector. Founded by a number of system organizations and others, CivicInfo is a society that has operated it portal website since 2000.
Integrated Cadastral Information Society
Incorporated in 2001, the Integrated Cadastral Information Society (ICI Society) works to facilitate collaborative integration of spatial data from local and provincial governments, First Nations and major utilities in British Columbia. ICI Society provides essential sources of geographical information in the province.
Auditor General for Local Government (AGLG)
The Auditor General for Local Government (AGLG) office conducted performance audits of the operations of local governments.
Excellence in Local Government
Learn about the organizations supporting vibrant communities in B.C.