Following a Comox Valley Regional District board resolution, Area A director Daniel Arbour has decided to throw his hat in the ring for the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) board of directors. The election is June 2.
The FCM board sets policy priorities that reflect the concerns of local governments across Canada, and meets quarterly to develop positions on key national/municipal issues. B.C. is represented by eight members on the 72-person national board.
“Emerging out of the pandemic, Canadians expect the federal government and provinces to work closely with local government on the delivery of public services,” said Arbour, the representative for Baynes Sound, Denman/Hornby. “Based on its grassroots strength, FCM regularly helps shape federal programs, policies and grant funding opportunities. Through the recovery, I believe it is important that we align well between our three levels of government. This will ensure that local needs are met, while helping reduce the risk of wasteful spending.”
In running for the seat, Arbour brings experience working in the federal context. Fluent in English and French, he has chaired a national forestry organization, and serves as the B.C. coastal local government representative to DFO on shellfish issues.
“It will be fun to connect with other local government officials across B.C., who ultimately elect our B.C. reps,” he said. “These seats are competitive and I would be thrilled to join the team that represents B.C. at FCM.”