LGLA

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Elected Officials Seminar Series

The Local Government Leadership Academy’s Elected Officials Series is held every four years following the local government general election to deepen elected officials’ understanding of the local government system and best practices for civic leadership.

The following dates have been set for the upcoming EOS Series:

Region
Dates
Conference Centre
LMLGA December 9-11, 2026 Radisson Hotel Vancouver Airport (Richmond)
AVICC January 13-15, 2027 Vancouver Island Conference Centre (Nanaimo)
SILGA January 20-22, 2027 Delta Hotels Grand Okanagan (Kelowna)
NCLGA January 27-29, 2027 Coast Prince George Hotel
AKBLG February 3-5, 2027 Kimberley Conference Centre

2027 EOS Program

Build the Foundation for Effective Local Government Leadership

Whether you’re newly elected or returning to office, the Elected Officials Seminar (EOS) provides the practical knowledge, skills, and connections needed to lead effectively in today’s local government environment.

Through interactive learning, real-world scenarios, facilitated discussions, and peer networking, the EOS helps elected officials navigate the transition into office and build confidence in their governance role.

Who Should Attend?

The EOS series is designed for newly-elected and returning local and First Nation elected officials.

Whether you are entering local government for the first time or bringing years of experience, the EOS series offers valuable learning, practical tools, and connections to support your success in office.

Why Attend?

The EOS series is designed specifically for local elected officials who want to:

  • Gain a strong understanding of their governance role and responsibilities.
  • Strengthen decision-making and leadership skills.
  • Learn practical approaches to complex challenges facing local governments.
  • Connect with colleagues from communities across BC.
  • Build a foundation for a successful and productive term in office.

Participants can expect:

  • Governance simulations and hands-on exercises.
  • Peer-to-peer learning and networking opportunities.
  • Discussion of real-world local government challenges.
  • Integrated learning on communications, Indigenous relations, climate considerations, and leadership resilience.
  • A supportive environment for both new and experienced elected officials.

Program Overview

Governance Foundations

Begin your EOS journey by exploring the transition from campaigning to governing. Learn how elected officials work together to make decisions, balance individual perspectives with collective responsibility, and build effective working relationships.

Roles, Responsibilities & Decision-Making

Develop a practical understanding of the roles of councils, boards, and administration. Through interactive exercises and governance simulations, participants will explore decision-making boundaries, meeting procedures, and the fundamentals of effective local government leadership.

Planning & Policy Stewardship
Examine the role elected officials play in shaping the future of their communities. Topics include strategic planning, growth management, housing, community wellbeing, and long-term policy leadership.
Responsible Conduct & Ethical Leadership

Explore respectful governance, productive debate, codes of conduct, and strategies for navigating disagreement while maintaining positive working relationships and public trust.

Financial Stewardship

Build confidence in local government finance and budgeting. Learn about taxation, infrastructure investment, reserves, borrowing, asset management, and financial sustainability through practical, decision-focused exercises.

Mentors' Panel

Hear lessons learned from seasoned elected officials and gain insights into building resilience, maintaining effectiveness, and leading successfully throughout a term of office.

Risk, Resilience & Crisis Leadership

Explore the leadership role of elected officials during emergencies and other high-pressure situations. Participants will engage in practical crisis scenarios that strengthen decision-making, communication, and governance skills under pressure.

Accommodation Information​

A block of rooms for participants has been booked at the noted hotels. Please arrange your accommodation by contacting the hotel directly through the links and contact information below.

  • Please note reservation deadlines.
  • Reservations must be guaranteed with a non-refundable deposit of one night’s room and tax at the time of booking.
LMLGA
  • December 9-11, 2026
  • Radisson Hotel Vancouver Airport
  • Booking link
  • Reservation Deadline: November 9, 2026
  • Rates:
    • Standard Room: $239
AVICC
  • January 13-15, 2027
  • Coast Bastion Hotel
  • Booking link
  • Reservation Deadline: January 14, 2027
  • Rates:
    • Coast King or Two Queens: $199
SILGA
  • January 20-22, 2027
  • Delta Hotels Grand Okanagan
  • Booking link
  • Reservation Deadline: December 20, 2026
  • Rates:
    • Standard Room: $189
NCLGA
  • January 27-29, 2027
  • Coast Prince George Hotel
  • Booking link
  • Reservation Deadline: December 2, 2026
  • Rates:
    • Single/Double: $125
    • Triple: $145
    • Quad: $165
AKBLG
  • February 3-5, 2027
  • Trickle Creek Lodge
  • Individual Call-in: 1-877-282-1200 ext 2
  • Group Code: 2027 LGLA – EOS Seminars
  • Reservation Deadline: December 2, 2026
  • Rates:
    • Studio Suites (occupancy: 2-4): $169
    • One Bedroom Suites (occupancy: 2-4): $179 
    • Two Bedroom Suites (occupancy: 4-6): $259 

Fraud Alert

It has come to our attention that agencies may be soliciting sponsors and attendees of LGLA events to book hotel rooms through their organization. Please beware that these organizations are not operating on our behalf and could be engaged in fraudulent activities. 

LGLA has not made any agreements with any agencies that offer reservation assistance, nor have we provided any information to anyone for this purpose. If you are contacted, please do not give out your personal information. We assure you that LGLA has NOT provided your contact details to any travel organizations. If you have any doubts about the legitimacy of a caller in relation to the LGLA EOS Series, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Cathy Watson Memorial Award

The Cathy Watson Memorial Award sends one elected official to the Local Government Leadership Academy’s annual forum (or Elected Officials Seminar), who would otherwise not be able to attend. The bursary covers registration, accomodation and up tp $1,000 in travel expenses.