B.C. introduces local government election reforms, including four-year terms

VICTORIA – The B.C. government has tabled legislation that would see the province have municipal elections every four years instead of every three years.

Community, Sport and Cultural Development Minister Coralee Oakes says the two new bills she has introduced are a response to recommendations made by joint task force representing the provincial government and the Union of B.C. Municipalities.

The four-year term, which applies to municipalities as well as regional districts, park and school boards and the Islands Trust, would begin in 2018 and citizens would vote in October rather than November.

The proposed legislation also includes changes to campaign finance rules, such as requiring candidates to file disclosure statements within 90 days after an election, rather than 120 days.

Oakes says the changes are meant to increase fairness, transparency and accountability of local election processes.

The next municipal election in B.C. is this November.