Welcome to the Fraser Valley Regional District.  2012 promises to be a year of exciting change at the FVRD.  We have many new Board members, a new Chief Administrative Officer, George Murray, and I am serving as Board Chair for the first time.

There are several significant initiatives underway this year: a review of the Regional Growth Strategy; continued discussion and consultation on Waste to Energy solutions with Metro Vancouver; internal streamlining to ensure the most efficient and effective delivery of services; building First Nations relations; and greenhouse gas emission reduction strategies, to name just a few.  The challenge a Chair faces is bringing all the different stakeholders together; ensuring everyone has a voice and is represented; and that the FVRD delivers exceptional services in meeting its mandate. 

Regional Districts have very specific mandates that are set out in the Local Government Act.  There are similarities to municipalities, but also some major differences.  Please visit our Mandate, Role, and Purpose page to gain an understanding of regional districts in general, and the FVRD specifically. 

In the early part of 2012, the FVRD Board and management team will focus on developing a Strategic Plan and Objectives for the FVRD to address the increasing number of challenges that are facing governments around the world.  The balance of the year will be spent monitoring and ensuring this plan comes to fruition. 

I expect all these changes and initiatives will make 2012 a challenging year, but these are challenges I welcome.  I am proud to be a part of this organization and look forward to the upcoming year working with my fellow Board members, and the management and staff of the FVRD.