April 2020
The AVICC wants to keep members informed about resources available to our communities during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
UBCM Updates
UBCM usually sends its weekly newsletter, the Compass, out by email to subscribers. During the COVID-19 pandemic, UBCM is sending out more regular emails with updates on resources and directives related to COVID-19. For those who don’t already subscribe to the Compass newsletter, there is a link on the home page of UBCM’s website to sign up. The UBCM home page also has a list of COVID-19 resources for local governments as well as a list of the updates for UBCM members. Today’s update included information about new guidelines for bylaw officers enforcing COVID-19 orders and a factsheet for renters and landlords from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing.
Vancouver Island Regional Library
While Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) branches remain closed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, VIRL is still offering services including: on-line registration, 24/7 WiFi, Overdrive (ebooks and audiobooks), courses and tutorials, magazines, newspapers, streaming movies and documentaries, education ebooks for teachers and students, and music services. The attachment from VIRL provides more details and links to each of the services. For members in the GVPL region, information on on-line registration and links to on-line services are available at GVPL Registration
AVICC’s New Website
AVICC has refreshed our website at www.avicc.ca with enhancements like a search function, the ability to navigate through mobile devices, and more resources included on the website. We have added information on recent correspondence and advocacy work, and updates from AVICC representatives on external groups. Members will find a letter from the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure related to Island Rail, as well as a letter of invitation from President Jensen to first nations within the AVICC region to become members of AVICC. As always, we would like to hear from our members about any additional information we could provide on our website.
Member Dues
AVICC will shortly be sending out notices for member dues for the 2020 calendar year. Dues are based on population, and reflect a 2% increase based on projected inflation. The cancellation of the 2020 Convention will mean a shortfall in AVICC’s 2020 Budget, and the Executive will be reviewing options to address this shortfall.
Contact Information
AVICC staff are currently working remotely so there may be delays in responding to voice mails left on the AVICC phone number. The best way to contact AVICC is by email. Regular mail can still be sent to AVICC care of:
Local Government House
525 Government Street
Victoria, BC, V8V 0A8
(250) 356-5122