What is an AAP?

An alternative approval process (AAP) enables local governments to directly engage citizens about a proposed bylaw that may include the following:

• long-term borrowing;
• a boundary extension;
• the establishment of a new regional district service;
• or other matters requiring elector approval.

The AAP allows voters to show their opposition to the proceeding of a local government proposal. The process requires that 10% or more eligible voters sign and submit official opposition forms (called Elector Response Forms) against the proposed initiative. If this threshold is met, the local government must proceed with a referendum (assent voting) before proceeding with the proposal.

If you support the proposal, no action is required.

Regional district matters where approval may be made by the alternative approval process include:

• Loan authorization bylaws (long-term borrowing)
• Disposal of certain utilities other than water or sewage systems
• Exchanges or other disposal of parkland
• Heritage property tax exemptions lasting two to ten years
• Riparian property tax exemptions lasting two to ten years
• Service establishing bylaws when certain legislative requirements are met

  How it works

  • Proposed Bylaw: At a CRD Board meeting, the Board gives third reading to the proposed bylaw that needs participating area approval and at that time decides to use an Alternative Approval Process (AAP).
  • Inspector of Municipalities Approval: The proposed bylaw, at third reading, must be given approval by the Inspector of Municipalities before the AAP can take place.
  • Public Notice: Information about the proposed bylaw is shared using public notices.
  • Response Period and Elector Response Form: Electors of the participating area have a set period of at least 30 days to respond if they oppose the proposed bylaw. They do this by signing an elector response form.
  • Threshold: If 10% or more of the eligible electors submitted a completed Elector Response Form by the deadline, the CRD may hold an assent vote (referendum) or reconsider the proposal.
  • Approval: If fewer than 10% of eligible electors oppose the proposed bylaw, it is considered approved. The results of the AAP are certified by the Corporate Officer and the matter is brought before the CRD Board at their next regular meeting to adopt the bylaw.

  The AAP is a cost-effective and efficient way to gauge public opinion on important issues. It allows the electors in the participating area to have a say and have their opposition counted by submitting an elector response form over a period of at least 30 days. This process ensures that significant decisions reflect the community's wishes while saving resources.