Member Feedback on Proposed Fee Increase

Derek Doyle P.Eng., Executive Director & Registrar

Since the May/June edition of Innovation, I’ve been pleased to receive member feedback on the proposed fee increase that will go to a bylaw vote this fall. My thanks to those members who responded to the last article. Below you will find some of the most frequently asked questions and my responses to the feedback I’ve received.

Other than the additional liability insurance, I get no value for my membership in APEGBC.
I have summarized the value proposition of APEGBC in 10 points:

  • The Association executes a transparent and thorough registration process to grant professional licences. As members of a self-regulating body, over 200 member volunteers play a crucial role in this process by ensuring applicants meet entrance standards. Association staff provide the administrative backbone to support this system such that the very essence of self-regulation ensues.
  • APEGBC supports the enrichment of professional practice through the management of practice guidelines and quality assurance programs.
  • We regulate the practice of our members on an ongoing basis utilizing practice audits and, where necessary, disciplinary measures. Outcomes of these measures are used as a learning tool for all members.
  • Our members work collaboratively with related professions to develop effective solutions for mutual practice and overlap.
  • On an ongoing basis, we access the expertise of over 24,000 members for the benefit of the people of British Columbia in many areas that are vital to the public interest and safety.
  • We actively work nationally and internationally on the mobility of professionals for career or business growth.
  • We work with government on public policy and legislation impacting the practice of the professions.
  • We provide input on government initiatives that impact public safety and the environment. Currently, APEGBC is an active collaborator with government on seismic safety and ‘greening’ the building code.
  • APEGBC actively supports educational programs to promote careers in engineering and geoscience.
  • We ensure that the legislation establishing the requirements of professional membership is serving the public interest in health, safety and the environment.

This is the true value you get from a self-regulating profession with exclusive practice rights.

My salary will not increase by 16% this year, why should our member fees?
Indeed, a 16% increase is significant, but the Association has not increased member fees in the last five years. Through our last compensation survey undertaken in 2006, examination of total annual compensation by responsibility point range for all valid respondents living in BC shows that, on average, the median compensation for these APEGBC members has increased by 14.0% from 2002 to 2006, or 3.33% annually with many categories having seen even greater increases.

With the proposed increase, we’ll be paying more than Alberta.
With over 47, 000 members, APEGGA has the benefit of economies of scale and also receives funds from issuing companies permits to practice. Their member fee is $250. APEGBC has a very lean staff to member ratio of one staff person to 800 members. This ratio is much higher than our counterparts other provinces.

What will the additional $39 be spent on?
The $39 increase specifically will help fund increases in direct costs for the following areas:

Member information system and service technologies upgrade.
Our current database is based on technology that is over 20 years old. The service provider for our existing database no longer renders support to our current system. An upgrade to our member information system will allow Association staff to streamline on-line member services.

Development of practice guidelines.
APEGBC has produced a number of professional practice guidelines with five new guidelines currently in various stages of development. As the scope and breadth of the professions continue to grow, our goal is to enhance members’ professional practices. Additional resources are required to accomplish this objective, which, in turn, will enrich our member’s professional practices.

Increase support to our Branches.
With members in every corner of the province, there is an opportunity for increased interaction within our respective communities through outreach activities. Specifically, with enhanced funding, we hope to increase support for career awareness, image enhancement and community appreciation. As a self regulated profession, government relations are also an important aspect of our operations. Additional funding is required to support government relations training for council, staff and volunteers and fund specific activities related to APEGBC's government relations agenda.

As always, your feedback is most appreciated and welcome. I can be contacted at ddoyle@apeg.bc.ca or at (604) 430-8035 ext 229 or toll free at 1-888-430-8035.
Ballot packages will be mailed in late August for the election and by-law vote. Two-thirds majority is required to pass a new bylaw for the proposed fee increase of $39. Your “yes” vote will help to move the Association forward and provide the solid financial footing it needs to meet upcoming challenges as we continue to grow while maintaining the integrity of the P.Eng./P.Geo. designation.