in 2009, as part of PIBC's membership survey, members were asked about where they would like to see the profession going in the future, and what initiatives Council should consider focusing on. One of the areas identified by members was the exploration of some kind of professional legislation or regulation for professional planners. PIBC Council took this issue up and resolved to exploer it further, as part of its overall 2009-2011 Strategic Plan.

Task Force

A special Professional Legislation & Certification Task Force was established by PIBC Council in November 2009 to undertake and implement the work of PIBC Council's strategic goals realted to the exploration and pursuit of possible professional legislation or regulation for the planning profession in British Columbia.

Current Task Force Members:

Joan Chess-Woollacott MCIP, President Elect (Chair)

Lindsay Chase MCIP, President

Linda Allen FCIP

Ryan Beaudry

Robert Lapham MCIP

Marcin Pachcinski

Eric Vance MCIP

Ray Young MCIP

Research Paper

The first initiative of the Task Force was to engage a professional outside consultant to develop a Research Paper exploring the current context of potential professional legislation or regulation for planners. This included looking at similar legislation or regulation for professional planners in other Canadian provinces, the regulation of other professions in British Columbia, and the challenges and opportunities that might be present in pursuing legislation or regulation for planners.

Intended as a 'jumping off' point for discussion with and amongst the membership, the Research Paper was developed by Marnie Reinistein of M Reinstein & Associates, and released in May 2010. A downloadable copy of the research paper is available below.

Legislation & Certification Research Report [PDF]

Next Steps

Discussion of the Research Paper and the broader issues commenced at the 2010 Annual Conference & AGM, with the circulation and collection of member comment cards from members in attendance, and a discussion at the Annual General Meeting. The Task Force will be continuing the process of consultation, dialogue and discussion with the membership, to determine possible courses of action and further next steps.

Watch for further details to come.