The fifth annual best practices in dealing with the federal government conference last Saturday in West Vancouver brought together representatives from the governments of Sechelt, West Vancouver, Squamish, Lions Bay and Bowen Island, among the many local governments in this sprawling riding.
This year's conference was the biggest in terms of number of attendees with 17. Coun. Darnelda Siegers and Mayor John Henderson from the District of Sechelt, and Garry Nohr, chair of the Sunshine Coast Regional District, represented the Sunshine Coast.
The annual conference was initiated by West Vancouver - Sunshine Coast - Sea to Sky Country member of Parliament John Weston. It is intended to assemble local government leaders in order to share information and develop best practices in dealing with the government of Canada.
"The annual conference has now become a key aspect of the governance in our riding as it creates an excellent forum for best practices," Weston said. "There were several examples where our people will be better served through collaboration among participants, such as in infrastructure projects and responding to the problem of abandoned vessels. I appreciate the mayors, councillors and other officials who participated."
On Nov. 9, conversation dealt with issues relating to federal funding best practices, environment and the economy and a long-term plan for the Howe Sound, health and fitness as an economic driver and a catalyst to make Canada the fittest nation on earth.
"This was an opportunity for communication and collaboration between neighbouring communities and levels of governments," Siegers said. "We can always learn from each other about common issues and ways to potentially address them and to bring our issues to the attention of our MP."
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