Bowen Island Municipal Council is responsible for governing the municipality under the authority of the Community Charter, Local Government Act and the  Island Trust Act.

Municipal Council comprises a Mayor and six Councillors and is the elected decision making body responsible for the operation of our municipal government. The Mayor is the Chief Executive Officer who chairs regular council meetings and is the key spokesperson between Council and the Public.

Council provides direction to staff who provide a variety of services. A number of appointed committees, commissions and task forces also provide advice to Council and staff. The Chief Administrative Officer and senior management carry out Council's decisions. They conduct the affairs of the municipality according to the law and enforce municipal bylaws. Council aims to be accessible to all its residents, to consider their needs and concerns, and to make financially sound decisions. This fulfils the role of the municipality and enhances the quality of life for all residents.

To provide for the functions and services available through the municipality, money is raised through the collection of property taxes. Taxation is imposed in May of each year and is levied against land and improvements.

Section 7 of the Community Charter states that the purposes of a municipality is as follows:

• providing for good government of its community,
• providing for services, laws and other matters for community benefit,
• providing for stewardship of the public assets of its community, and
• fostering the economic, social and environmental well-being of its community.

Term of Office

The term of office for Council members is mandated by the Community Charter. Section 119 which states that the term of office for Council members, including the Mayor, is three years starting from the first Regular Council Meeting following the election.

Local Elections are held the third Saturday in November, every 3 years. The next Municipal election is November 15, 2008.