Commissions
Last updated on August 5, 2020A municipal council or a regional district board may decide to establish a commission to provide advice or undertake some economic development work on behalf of the board or council.
Opportunities
Commissions are used when the council or a regional district board:
- Does not have the capacity to undertake an initiative
- Feels a delegated body could better deliver the service
Economic development needs subject matter experts and community involvement. A commission provides an opportunity for widespread input from stakeholders and the community through representation on the board. The commission can operate at "arm’s-length" from the council or regional district board.
Limitations
The council or regional district board can delegate some of its authority to the commission within limits established by legislation.
The commission cannot:
- Exercise authority to make a bylaw
- Delegate its responsibilities to another body or person unless authorized
How to Proceed
Regional District Committees and Commissions is the place to start with your commission.
The Central Okanagan Economic Development Commission (COEDC) is an example of a commission established by a regional district.
The Commission is an agency of the Regional District of Central Okanagan (RDCO) and is funded by and accountable to the elected board of the RDCO.