2000 Conference of Provincial-Territorial Ministers responsible for Local Government

FREDERICTON, August 1, 2000 -- The 2000 provincial and territorial conference of ministers responsible for local government concluded in Fredericton today. Hosted by Kim Jardine, New Brunswick Minister of Environment and Local Government, the annual conference provided an opportunity for representatives from across the country to discuss priority issues in their jurisdictions.

"The last two days provided an opportunity for us to meet and share our perspectives on issues facing local governments", Jardine said.

Discussions centered around provincial and territorial strategies for dynamic, fiscally sound and accountable local governments in the new millennium.

"We had good and productive discussions on the issues that each of us face in regard to making local government work effectively in our respective jurisdictions and identified opportunities to further explore best practices that each of us has developed", Jardine said.

"Provincial and territorial governments are working with their local government leaders to create viable communities for citizens," Jardine added. "Participants were interested in sharing the various models of local governance and regional cooperation in service delivery and discussing taxation and assessment issues", Jardine said.

The Ministers discussed municipal infrastructure issues and emphasized the importance of placing a high priority on water and wastewater projects. Negotiations are ongoing with federal counterparts aimed at reaching an agreement by late summer. However, concern was expressed over federal involvement in local government issues which could override provincial/territorial priorities.

"We share the same desire in strengthening working relationships with our colleagues in local government", Jardine said. "This conference provided an excellent opportunity to exchange ideas on various issues and we were able to learn from each other's experiences."

All provincial and territorial governments were represented at this conference. The 2001 conference will be held in Ontario.

- 30 -

Contact:

                                               

Katherine d'Entremont, Acting Assistant            Deputy Minister            Environment and Local Government            (506) 453-2434

Charles Santerre, Communications Officer            Environment and Local Government            (506) 453-6703