NCLGA Conference Starts Next Week

CITY, REGIONAL DISTRICT AND DISTRICT OF PORT EDWARD CO-HOSTING ANNUAL CONFERENCE THIS YEAR 

North Central Local Government Association Comes Together Annually to Advocate for Regional Issues

PRINCE RUPERT, MAY 7th, 2025 – From May 12^th to 15^th next week local government representatives from across northern and central BC will be gathering in our region – from 100 Mile House to the Yukon and from Haida Gwaii to Alberta. This is an annual opportunity for representatives from over 42 local and First Nations governments to connect, learn and advocate around shared interests.

The keynote speaker at this year’s conference is the Honourable Janet Austin, who served 7 years as the 30^th Lieutenant Governor of BC from 2018 to 2025 and has a long history of non-profit and public sector service. In addition, there is a Healthy Communities Forum occurring during the week where leaders will learn more about ongoing recruitment and retention efforts in the health care sector, innovations being undertaken in specific communities to support that work, and a dialogue on how local communities can participate.  

City staff will also be presenting on the successful redeployment of the Watson Island site following the removal of the old pulp mill – a challenge which may soon be facing many interior member communities of the NCLGA.

Attendees can look forward to an engaging program, opportunities for delegate networking, and visiting tradeshow booths. 

Plenary and Concurrent Panel Sessions:

Plenary Panel Sessions will include updates from the Municipal Insurance Association of BC, Northern Development Initiatives Trust, and Northern Medical Programs Trust, along with  panelists speaking on the topics such as:

• Gaayhllxid/Gíihlagalgang "Rising Tide" Haida Title Lands Agreement
• Taking Stock of the Trade War: Local Government Impacts
• Building Bridges: Climate Adaptation, Housing, and Reconciliation in Partnership with Indigenous Communities
• Regional Districts - Legislative Reform
• CN Moving the Economy Safely
• RoadSafeBC and ICBC: Intersection Safety Camera (ISC) Program

The convention will also feature several Concurrent Panel Sessions presented by distinguished panelists, on key topics including the volunteer/paid on call firefighting sector, resolution collaboration, mental health and wellbeing for local government elected officials, taking action to address BC's health-care challenges, and harnessing AI for enhanced capacity in local government.

Event Details: 

• Location: North Coast Hall Meeting and Event Centre, Prince Rupert, BC
• Dates: May 12-15, 2025

For further event details, registration, tradeshow booth, and sponsorship information please visit: 2025 NCLGA AGM (nclga.ca) or email admin@nclga.ca 

Please register here.

Quotes from Area and NCLGA Representatives: 

“We are proud to be welcoming delegates from across BC next week for the first time since 2011. Co-hosting the annual NCLGA conference is an opportunity for us to spotlight our region, and also to generate economic benefit for local businesses.” – Mayor Herb Pond, City of Prince Rupert 

“Port Edward is proud to be co-hosting the annual NCGLA convention of northern municipalities.  It is an opportunity to showcase the region and highlight the great opportunities that this area offers to businesses wishing to locate in our communities.” — Mayor Knut Bjorndal, District of Port Edward

“We are thrilled to welcome delegates from across northern B.C. to the North Coast for the 2025 NCLGA Conference. This is a wonderful opportunity to showcase our region and come together to share ideas, strengthen partnerships, and celebrate the vibrant communities that make up the North.” — Barry Pages, Chair, North Coast Regional District Board

"The 2025 NCLGA AGM will provide a dynamic forum for local government leaders from across northern and central British Columbia to address pressing issues, foster collaboration, and make meaningful progress on shared priorities. We remain committed to working in partnership to strengthen local governance, advocate for our communities, and build a more connected and resilient future." - Judy Greenaway, NCLGA President

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