March 11-13, 2026
Radisson Hotel Vancouver Airport, Richmond BC
The Local Government Leadership Academy’s annual forum brings together senior staff and elected officials from local governments and First Nations to explore innovative ways to collaborate and drive positive transformation.
The 2026 conference theme is The 2026 conference theme is Finishing Strong: Legacy, Leadership and What Comes Next. The Forum will offer space to reflect, renew, and refocus. Finishing Strong is about more than closing a chapter – it’s about honouring accomplishments, stewarding resources, strengthening relationships, and shaping a legacy that endures.
Finishing Strong: Legacy, Leadership & What Comes Next
As local leaders approach the culmination of their term, the 2026 LGLA Leadership Forum offers space to reflect, renew, and refocus. Finishing Strong is about more than closing a chapter—it’s about honouring accomplishments, stewarding resources, strengthening relationships, and shaping a legacy that endures.
This year’s Leadership Forum invites participants to celebrate their contributions, capture their stories, and prepare for what’s next—both personally and for their communities. Through thought-provoking sessions and meaningful dialogue, participants will explore the many dimensions of leadership and legacy.
Attendees will explore ways to:
- Strengthen their legacy through sound, lasting financial stewardship
- Build resilience and trust through effective crisis leadership
- Capture and share their leadership story to inspire others
- Shape the future of local leadership learning with their feedback.
- Approach elections and transitions with optimism and integrity
- Nurture relationships that sustain trust and effective leadership.
Hotel Block
To book a room under the EA Forum & LGLA 2026 Leadership Forum block at a reduced room rate, call 1-604-279-8384 or email your reservation request by February 9, 2026.
All reservations will be guaranteed with a non-refundable deposit of the first night’s room and tax at the time of booking. The group rooms are $229/night plus taxes and fees. If making multiple guest reservation requests, the final rooming list is required at latest by 14 days prior to arrival. Please be sure to identify yourself as an attendee of the EA Forum & LGLA 2026 Leadership Forum to receive the group rate.
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.