Alternative Approval Processes (AAP)
Under legislation, a local government has two methods by which they may seek approval of the electors: Assent of the Electors (a referendum), which is approval by voting, or Alternative Approval Process which allows the SCRD Board to proceed with an action unless 10% or more of the electors state their opposition within a prescribed period.
An Alternative Approval Process (AAP) is a cost-effective method to engage with the community to determine whether there is support for certain initiatives, such as long-term borrowing, or other service-related projects. If 10% or more of the eligible electors oppose the initiative, the SCRD cannot proceed with it and must consider other options including going to an assent vote (referendum).
A unified AAP combines various initiatives and runs them concurrently at the same time every year with a goal of saving taxpayer dollars as well as supporting increased engagement efforts to ensure the community is aware of ways to have their say or get involved.