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Local Government - A Brief History
British Columbia municipalities were first formed in the late 1800s when residents saw the need for their growing communities to have the benefit of locally provided and locally controlled services. The City of Port Coquitlam was first incorporated as a municipality in 1913.  Since that time the City has seen significant growth with a population now exceeding 55,000.

The City provides a variety of services to those living and visiting here.  It provides and maintains the community’s basic essential services like clean water, garbage collection, sewer system, roads, and fire and police protection.  In addition, the City also provides other services such as libraries, parks and recreational facilities.

The type and levels of service provided in the City are determined by the its elected Council.  City Council is elected every three years and consists of a Mayor and six Councillors.  Council meets on a regular basis to set the direction and service priorities for the community.

City Staff have been hired and tasked with the responsibility of implementing the services and priorities established by Council.