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MINISTER BENNETT CHAMPIONS INNOVATION DURING UBCM KEYNOTE ADDRESS

September 30, 2009
VANCOUVER – During his keynote address to delegates at the annual meeting of the Union of BC Municipalities, Community and Rural Development Minister Bill Bennett underlined the importance of innovation and creative problem-solving in meeting social and economic challenges during the current global downturn.

The Minister drew on this year's convention theme, 'Province of Champions' during his address Sept. 30 to 2,000 delegates in Vancouver.

"Local governments have a history of innovative problem-solving and leadership they can be proud of," said Bennett. "When I look around this room today, I am truly humbled by your perseverance and your accomplishments, and by your courage to be on the front line of innovation."

"As you continue to look for ways to grow and strengthen your communities, as you look for new ways of getting things done, my Ministry, my staff and I will be there to support all of you."

Bennett acknowledged six B.C. mayors in the audience for their community vision, determination and leadership. Many led their communities through difficult times.

Recent Photos
2009-09-30 - VANCOUVER – During his keynote address to delegates at the annual meeting of the Union of BC Municipalities, Community and Rural Development Minister Bill Bennett underlined the importance of innovation and creative problem-solving in meeting social and economic challenges during the current global downturn.
2009-09-28 - VANCOUVER – Speaking with British Columbia mayors, councillors, regional district directors and local government staff forms a large part of Community and Rural Development Minister Bill Bennett’s week during the annual convention of the Union of BC Municipalities. He’s pictured here addressing attendees of the Large Urban Forum at the start of the five-day annual event.
2009-07-14 - Minister of Community and Rural Development Bill Bennett, UBCM President Robert Hobson, Premier Gordon Campbell and UBCM Executive Director Emeritus Richard Taylor tour the 'green roof' of the new Local Government House during opening ceremonies in Victoria. The province donated the land at 525 Government St. to recognize UBCM’s service on behalf of B.C. communities for over a century. For the first time, B.C. local governments have a permanent home within walking distance of the Legislature to support UBCM’s work on behalf of B.C. communities. The new facility meets LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold standards and was built using B.C. products, including pine beetle-enhanced wood. Local Government House also incorporates an advanced storm water management system that includes a green roof, a 16,000-litre cistern and rain garden that will filter and reuse nearly 100 percent of the site’s stormwater. With offices in Richmond and Victoria, UBCM advocates on matters of legislative concern for local governments and provides a variety of services to its members, including the administration of funding programs. Every local government in British Columbia is a member of UBCM.
2009-07-13 - KAMLOOPS – A $60-million commitment will help the Job Opportunities Program create immediate employment and help workers in all industry sectors and communities impacted by the economic downturn, announced Lynne Yelich, federal Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, and Bill Bennett, British Columbia’s Minister of Community and Rural Development.
2009-06-10 - VICTORIA – Kootenay East MLA Bill Bennett, pictured here with B.C.'s Lieutenant Governor Steven L. Point, was appointed Minister of Community and Rural Development at the June 10 swearing-in ceremony at Government house.
2009-06-10 - VICTORIA – B.C. Premier Gordon Campbell named East Kootenay MLA Bill Bennett as Minister of Community and Rural Development June 10, 2009. The ministry is responsible for municipal affairs, regional and economic development in rural areas of the province, community response to the mountain pine beetle epidemic, programs such as the Community Development Trust and the Job Opportunities Program, Towns for Tomorrow, BC Spirit Squares, LocalMotion and Trees for Tomorrow.