www.ubcm.ca | January 28, 2026 | View in browser

Lack of funds drives changes to FireSmart program  

The FireSmart Community Funding and Supports (FCFS) program will be closing its current intake for applications on January 30 due to a lack of funding. To ensure a fair process for administering the remaining funds available, the program will reopen on Monday, February 2 with a competitive adjudicated grant process. This intake will receive applications until April 30. Read more.

Chronology of the decriminalization pilot

BC’s decriminalization pilot will come to an end on January 31, 2026. The aim of this initiative was to address the overdose crisis by removing stigma that prevents individuals from seeking life-saving support and treatment. 

The pilot, the first of its kind in Canada, removed criminal penalties for the possession of small amounts of illegal substances for personal use. Speaking with reporters early in January, Premier David Eby said that the pilot “did not work”. Health Minister Josie Osborne said the pilot “hasn’t delivered the results we hoped for,” as she announced the Province would not seek an extension from Health Canada. Read more.

• Group Benefits webinars: January 28, February 18, March 4.
• Build Canada Homes webinars: January 29.
• Forestry Town Hall: February 3
• Policing Standards Committee opening: February 6. 
• Electoral Area Directors’ Forum: March 10-11, 2026. 
• LGLA Leadership Forum: March 11-13, 2026. 
• Wildfire Resiliency and Training Summit: April 8-12, 2026.