Legislative Services is responsible for supporting Council decision-making processes, performing record-keeping services for the City, providing bylaw enforcement services, managing risk, liaising with other levels of government, and advising on legal matters. Work is carried out by the following divisions:
- Bylaw Enforcement, Animal Services and Business Licensing
- City Clerk’s Office
- Intergovernmental Relations and Reconciliation
- Legal Services
- Risk and Emergency Management
Bylaw Enforcement, Animal Services and Business Licensing
Key responsibilities include:
- Managing bylaw education, compliance and enforcement actions
- Supporting bylaw enforcement activities in other departments
- Operating Coquitlam’s animal shelter and animal-care services
- Issuing business licences to businesses operating in Coquitlam
- Coordinating bylaw infraction adjudication hearings
- Offering information services to current and prospective businesses through the Business LinQ
City Clerk’s Office
The City Clerk’s Office is a key communications link between City Council, staff and the community. Key responsibilities include:
- Managing statutory notification processes
- Preparing agendas and minutes for Council and Committee meetings
- Managing corporate records, including City bylaws and Freedom of Information requests
- Providing administrative support to Council and its Committees
- Providing operational support services (reception and mail services)
- Conducting local government elections
- Operating the City Archives
Intergovernmental Relations and Reconciliation
Key Responsibilities include:
- Liaising with other levels of government on initiatives that impact Coquitlam
- Supporting a government-to-government relationship with neighbouring First Nations
- Engaging in reconciliation initiatives with the kʷikʷəƛ̓əm First Nation and other Indigenous peoples including urban indigenous peoples that reside in the Coquitlam
- Exploring partnerships with other levels of government
Legal Services
Key responsibilities include:
- Providing legal advice and support to the City
- Overseeing all legal matters of the City
- Supporting the business plan priorities of the City
Risk and Emergency Management
Key responsibilities include:
- Strengthening risk governance
- Managing the City’s insurance portfolio, as well as property and liability claims
- Providing disaster mitigation and prevention services
- Guiding emergency preparedness and planning within the City and delivering public education seminars to support a whole-of-community approach
- Responding to, and recovering from, emergencies and natural disasters
