Heritage Forum for Municipal Staff and Elected Officials

The Heritage Resources Branch was pleased to host its 5th annual Heritage Forum for municipal staff and elected officials on Thursday, February 21.  Delegates from across the province met to discuss common concerns related to heritage.

This year's theme of "Historic Buildings, Modern Uses" involved panel discussions and roundtable brainstorming.  These sessions brought together municipalities of different sizes to discuss how municipalities can support and encourage heritage development in their communities.  Municipal officials discussed tax incentives, how historic buildings and good planning can contribute to a green strategy and build community pride, as well as the importance of building community support for heritage.  They also discussed current heritage issues, big and small.

Delegates were also treated to a keynote address by nationally-renowned heritage lawyer and author Marc Denhez.  Mr. Denhez spoke about environmental sustainability and how heritage buildings contribute to a green strategy.  He outlined how municipalities can create toolkits for heritage development through good planning, tax incentives, and removing disincentives that restrict the conservation and development of heritage resources.  Mr. Denhez's talk was greatly enjoyed by the delegates.


The Heritage Resources Branch greatly appreciates the participation and attendance by other government officials.  Bernie Flaman, Provincial Heritage Architect, discussed the essential role of the Standards & Guidelines when conserving and developing historic buildings.  Karen Bolton, manager from Community Planning with the Ministry of Municipal Affairs, provided invaluable insight and direction in the area of strategic municipal planning.