The North Central Local Government Association (NCLGA) is taking a more action-oriented approach under its new leadership, with a stronger emphasis on advocacy and advancing regional priorities.
The shift was highlighted during Fort St. John’s regular council meeting, where council received a letter from newly elected NCLGA president Kyle MacDonald, who also serves as a councillor with the City of Dawson Creek.
MacDonald was elected president at the association’s annual general meeting, while Fort St. John councillor Tony Zabinsky was chosen as first vice-president for a second term.
In his letter, MacDonald said the board’s focus will move beyond simply developing resolutions and toward working with members, partner organizations and senior levels of government to help turn those priorities into action.
Among the key issues identified by communities across the region is transportation infrastructure.
“Transportation infrastructure and connectivity continue to be recurring concerns across our region and will remain a significant advocacy priority,” MacDonald said.
He noted that dependable transportation networks play a critical role in economic growth, public safety, healthcare access, trade and overall community well-being.
The association also plans to continue advocating on several other challenges facing northern and central British Columbia, including healthcare access, workforce shortages, housing affordability and availability, as well as emergency preparedness and disaster resilience.
According to MacDonald, the NCLGA executive and board will continue meeting with provincial and federal decision-makers, including ministries, parliamentary secretaries, MLAs, MPs and senior government officials, to ensure regional concerns are represented in policy discussions.
MacDonald said successful advocacy starts with understanding the needs of local communities and identifying opportunities to work together.
“I encourage elected officials to connect with members of the executive, board and NCLGA staff to discuss emerging issues, opportunities for collaboration and priorities that would benefit from regional advocacy,” he noted.
The association says it will continue engaging with members throughout the year through committee meetings, webinars, newsletters, regional discussions and direct outreach.
MacDonald also encouraged local governments to review the resolutions adopted during the 2026 AGM and consider how those priorities align with issues in their own communities.
“By working together, we can continue to strengthen the voice of northern and central British Columbia and advance practical solutions that support resilient, prosperous and healthy communities,” he noted.
