The purpose of this discussion paper is to set a framework for a new legislative foundation for local government in British Columbia, to explore the principles guiding new local government legislation, and to evaluate how the principles would translate into actual change. The paper first looks at the general needs, expectations, and responsibilities of citizens, local governments, and the provincial government. With this in mind, the paper explores each of the guiding principles of new local government legislation and presents hypothetical scenarios of how the principles could be applied. It also examines what application might mean for local governments.