Tofino and Ucluelet awarded at UBCM

Tofino and Ucluelet have both garnered awards at this year's Union of B.C. Municipalities convention in Penticton.

Ucluelet has been awarded the Leadership and Innovation award in the small community category for sustainability initiatives.

The Leadership and Innovation category recognizes regional districts and municipalities that have demonstrated environmental excellence in successfully implementing programs, policies and plans that have benefited their community.

Premier Gordon Campbell presents John Fraser, mayor of Tofino with a Solar BC award. Tofino was one of six communities awarded under the initiative.

Tofino was one of six communities awarded $20,000 to further develop solar hot water systems and other solar initiatives in an effort to conserve and promote clean energy throughout the province.

"These communities are the first to be funded by our $5-million investment in the SolarBC program," said Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources Minister Richard Neufeld. "These communities will have the opportunity to become solar-friendly and be leaders in a sustainable energy future as recognized 'Solar Communities'."