GOLDEN - The Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM) is a step closer to having a new, permanent, environmentally friendly home in B.C.'s capital following the transfer of the land titles to a property located near the parliament buildings in Victoria, Premier Gordon Campbell announced today.

"For a century, UBCM has been a valued partner in shaping the future of our province and the role of local governments has never been more important than today," said Campbell. "The new Municipal House recognizes that contribution and will ensure that UBCM has a suitable home base for its continued work on behalf of British Columbians and their communities."

The transfer of the deed to 525 Government Street in Victoria from the Province to UBCM fulfils a commitment to assist in replacing the current Municipal House made by Campbell at the 2005 UBCM annual convention. It is expected the new facility, which has been registered for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), will highlight B.C. products using, where possible, pine beetle-enhanced wood.

"We know the critical role UBCM and its members have in building partnerships and creating vibrant, integrated communities. That's why the Province of B.C. is proud to provide this gift of a piece of land for a new Municipal House," said Chong. "We look forward to seeing the construction of a state of the art, green facility that will build on these partnerships and reflect the best of B.C.'s communities."

"This is a great day for local governments across B.C.," said UBCM president Brenda Binnie. "Thanks to the generosity and support of the Province of B.C., the Union of B.C. Municipalities now has a permanent home in the heart of the capital. Premier Campbell made a promise at our convention in 2005 that is now fulfilled with the gift of this property."

Construction on the new Municipal House is expected to begin in the fall, with the official opening anticipated in late 2008. For more information on Municipal House, visit www.civicnet.bc.ca online.