Bowen Island, BC – Bowen Island Municipality is taking steps to streamline its governance processes in 2025, ensuring greater efficiency and effectiveness in municipal decision-making. As part of this initiative, the Municipality is restructuring its advisory committee system, consolidating some committees while retaining 10 key advisory groups that align with provincial requirements and Council’s strategic priorities. This move will also bring us closer into alignment with best practices and governance size observed in municipalities of a similar size across Canada.
“Over the past 25 years since incorporation, Bowen Island’s success has been built on collaboration,” said Mayor Andrew Leonard. “Our advisory committees have played a vital role in shaping policies, master plans, and programs that guide our community’s development. With strong frameworks now in place, we are confident in our ability to implement these initiatives and continue building a sustainable future.”
The restructuring includes the formation of a new Parks and Environment Advisory Committee, which will integrate the mandates of multiple existing groups. This committee will provide Council with expert guidance on environmental stewardship, climate action, and green space planning—ensuring a coordinated and strategic approach to these critical areas.
In addition to this consolidation, Council has decided to reduce the total number of committees by nine. The following committees will be concluded, with their responsibilities transitioning to other municipal departments, partner organizations, or broader Council initiatives:
- Community Centre Select Steering Committee; complete with the construction of the facility, with operational oversight transferred to the Community Centre Joint Management Committee.
- Community Grants Advisory Committee; a jury will be empaneled annually to evaluate grant applications and provide advice to council.
- Finance Advisory Committee; will fall under the direct purview of council, with the formation of an audit committee, as needed.
- Heritage Commission; under current legislation, responsibilities can be transferred to a partner organization.
- Housing Advisory Committee; to be replaced by the formation of an arms length community housing organization.
- Public Art Advisory Committee; responsibilities can be transferred to a partner organization.
- Recreation and Community Services Commission; responsibilities have been managed operationally by staff.
- Snug Cove Sewer Local Advisory Committee; engagement will transfer to an engagement process similar to that of our seven water systems.
- Transportation Advisory Committee; responsibilities will be taken up by council and public works, with a focus on stronger advocacy to BC Ferries and the Ministry of Transportation.
Mayor Leonard emphasized the importance of continued public engagement. “Although some committees will be winding down, community input remains essential. One significant opportunity for involvement in 2025 will be the review of Bowen Island’s Official Community Plan (OCP), which will help define the long-term vision for our island. In addition, we will retain and strengthen the use of the ten committees that remain, who provide direction and advice on issues as diverse as climate, finance, and infrastructure.”
Council extends its gratitude to all committee members for their contributions to initiatives such as the Parks Plan, Climate Action Strategy, Transportation Master Plan, Active Transportation Plan, Heritage Strategic Plan, Community Recreation Plan, Cultural Master Plan, Community Grants Policy, and Public Art Policy. Their expertise and volunteer efforts have helped shape Bowen Island’s policies and procedures.
The Municipality encourages all residents to stay engaged through public feedback opportunities and consultations on key initiatives over the next year and into the future. For more information, please visit bowenislandmunicipality.ca.