GOVERNANCE – Province wide code of conduct rules on the way for cities, RDs

Province wide code of conduct rules for local governments are on the way. The Province announced today (April 2, 2026) it has introduced legislative amendments to allow for a mandatory code of conduct for local elected officials in B.C.

It applies both to city councils and regional district boards but not to school boards.

“Every community benefits from local leadership that is accountable and focused on priorities that matter to people,” said Christine Boyle, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs.

“When conduct issues escalate, they can sidetrack councils and regional district boards from their work and undermine public confidence. Establishing a mandatory code of conduct and a transparent process to address conduct issues will provide clarity and predictability for councils and boards across B.C., strengthening accountability and giving citizens greater confidence that their local representatives are acting responsibly and in the public interest.”

The provincial code will be designed to deal with conduct issues including bullying or harassment in meetings, harassment of staff or disrespectful behaviour between elected officials.

The current term of Kamloops City council has been marked by frequent disrespectful behaviour by council members, as well as allegations of bullying.

The council’s current code of conduct policy has led to complaints that have cost taxpayers hundreds of thousands of dollars to investigate. Today’s announcement said a province wide code will reduce legal costs, though it didn’t provide details of how that will happen.

A provincially mandatedcode has long been expected, with Union of B.C. Municipalities delegates having called for changes to responsible conduct rules on six occasions. The pending legislation comes after consultation with the UBCM and other stakeholders.

Possible sanctions resulting from code violations include a 90-day suspension without pay.