About Municipal Government

Are you curious about how municipal government works? Whether you are new to Port Moody or have lived or owned a business here for a long time, it can be helpful to understand the role of municipal government, how decisions are made, and how to connect with us if you have questions, concerns, or feedback.

Your municipal government is dedicated to delivering essential city services, community programs, and long-term planning to support a safe, livable, vibrant, and sustainable community. We provide residents, visitors, and business owners with services related to public safety, roads, water and sanitary sewer utilities, solid waste pickup, parks and trails, recreation, development and land use planning, and environmental stewardship, while fostering economic growth and community well-being.

The role of municipal government

Municipal government shapes the services you rely on, the spaces you use, and how your community evolves. City Council’s are elected every four years and consist of a mayor and six councillors. City Council can debate issues, set policy, pass bylaws, approve budgets, and establish the City’s overall direction, but they must adhere to legislation set by the Province of British Columbia, primarily the Community Charter and the Local Government Act. While City Council sets direction and policy, approves budgets, passes bylaws, and represents the community, city staff – led by the city manager – run day-to-day services. 

Municipalities are responsible for:

• drinking water (in coordination with the regional district of Metro Vancouver)
• stormwater and sewer wastewater
• road safety and maintenance, and active transportation networks (cycling, walking)
• garbage, recycling, and green waste
• parks and trails
• local environmental protection, planning, and enhancement
• libraries
• arts and cultural services (events, theatre, public art)
• recreational and sport programs and facilities
• fire rescue, police services, emergency planning
• bylaw enforcement
• property taxes and utility fees
• land use and community planning
• permitting, inspections, and licensing
• local economic strategies and policies

Other levels of government – like the province of British Columbia or the government of Canada – are responsible for services like hospitals and health care, schools, highways, electricity, and postal services.

Municipal decision-making overview

CAMA explains that municipal decisions follow a consistent, transparent process. This structure ensures accountability, fairness, and well-informed choices. They describe the typical process as follows:

1. An issue or opportunity arises – from residents, staff, Councillors, or new legislation
2. Staff research and prepare a report for Council – including background, options, recommendations, financial implications, and legal considerations
3. Council discusses the issue – in a public meeting
4. Council votes – decisions are made by majority
5. Staff implement the decision – through programming, infrastructure, or operational changes
6. Updates are communicated – through website, newsletters, meetings, or media

CAMA's Resident's Guide to Services, Roles & Good Governance (PDF) includes more detail about this process.