New UNA Bylaws and Constitution have been Implemented

The University Neighbourhoods Association (UNA) is pleased to announce that its new set of Bylaws and Constitution have been filed with the province and are now in effect.

A key highlight of the new Bylaws includes provisions for more democratic governance, with a fully elected Board of Directors and the transition of UBC-appointed Directors to non-voting observer-participants. A separate Agreement was created with the UBC Alma Mater Society (AMS) that allows them to designate an AMS member to attend and participate in Board meetings.

Key highlights of the new Constitution include provisions that address the UNA’s purpose of providing municipal-like services to residents, representing the interests of residents, and fostering stronger partnerships with the UBC Board of Governors and the UBC academic community.

The new Bylaws and Constitution were approved by members at a Special General Meeting held on September 30, 2020. Unforeseen complications with insurance coverage delayed the filing and operationalization of the Bylaws. This issue has not been fully resolved, however, UBC has agreed to take a proactive role, alongside the UNA, in dealing with this challenging issue. In the meantime, UBC has agreed that the UNA could file the amended Bylaws while they work together to resolve the issue.

The UNA and UBC have also finalized the Neighbours’ Agreement 2020 to update the previous agreement from 2015. Changes to the Neighbours Agreement were made concurrently to align it with the new Bylaws and Constitution.

The UNA Board would like to send their sincerest thanks to everyone who was involved in this process. The significant improvements to the Bylaws and Constitution have come about due to many years of careful consideration and consultation to ensure that the best interests of UNA residents are kept in the forefront.

“It’s been a long journey and I’m thankful to finally have a clearer governance picture in place,” said UNA Chair Richard Watson. “It brings hope for the future.”

Linked below are certified copies of the new UNA Bylaws and Constitution which were filed on March 18, 2021 with B.C. Registry Services. There is also a link to Neighbours Agreement 2020.

• UNA Bylaws (Effective: March 18, 2021)
• UNA Constitution (Effective: March 18, 2021)
• Neighbours’ Agreement 2020

Background Information:

• A Guide to the Proposed Changes to the UNA Bylaws and Constitution (Sept. 30, 2020)