Trail has secured the spotlight for 2026 as host of one of the Kootenays’ most significant gatherings of elected officials.
The city will welcome more than 180 municipal leaders, staff, and guests from across southeastern British Columbia for the annual Association of Kootenay and Boundary Local Governments (AKBLG) conference.
During last week’s Trail council, held one day after the 2025 AKBLG conference concluded, Mayor Colleen Jones shared that she was pleased to have been re-elected as a director on the AKBLG board.
She later confirmed to the Trail Times that Trail will host the 2026 AKBLG convention.
“It’s an honour to continue representing the West Kootenay and to help make sure rural voices are heard loud and clear,” said Jones.
“Over my last term, I worked on several committees — Advocacy, Resolutions, Convention, and Policy and Procedures — all focused on tackling the big issues our communities face and bringing forward solutions that work for us.”
She expressed enthusiasm about bringing the conference to Trail in 2026.
“It’s been years since we’ve had the chance to host, and it’s a wonderful opportunity to show off our amazing community,” she said.
“I’m looking forward to showcasing not only our beautiful city but also the progress we’ve made, the partnerships we’ve built, and the changes that are in the future.”
Jones added that the event is expected to give a welcome economic boost.
“It’s also a big win for our local economy: from hotels and restaurants to retail and tourism, hosting this conference will give our businesses a great boost.
"I know Trail’s uniqueness will shine through and I’m so proud that we get to host such a meaningful event.”
See here: Trail to host 2026 AKBLG
Jones attended the 2025 conference alongside councillors Thea Hanson, Bev Benson, and Paul Butler, and Chief Administrative Officer Colin McClure.
Held in Kimberley from April 25 to April 27 under the theme "Strengthening Our Foundation," the event featured workshops, keynote addresses, and sessions focused on governance, sustainability, and regional collaboration.
A highlight for the Trail delegation was a keynote speech by Mike Bushore, Chief Risk and Operations Officer of Kootenay Savings Credit Union, whose remarks on the state of the economy were widely praised for their clarity and insight.
Sessions included building respectful relationships with First Nations, mental health for elected officials, aligning procurement with community values, and a talk by Strong Towns' Norm Van Eeden Petersman on rebuilding local prosperity. The conference closed with a keynote by Dr. Caroline Brookfield on leadership in uncertain times.
Founded in 1933, the AKBLG represents municipalities and electoral areas across southeastern British Columbia, including the regional districts of Kootenay Boundary, Central Kootenay, East Kootenay, as well as the Town of Golden and the Village of Valemount.
One of five regional associations under the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM), the AKBLG serves as a non-partisan platform for advocacy and collaboration.
The organization identifies and addresses regional issues related to the economy, environment, and social well-being, with resolutions forwarded to higher levels of government. Its board comprises nine elected officials from member communities, supported by committees and an executive director.
