Nelson, BC: Looking for a more suitable office location in Creston, the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) Board authorized the development of a design concept for a new office space. The potential new space is located on the upper floor of Rotacrest Hall, located at 230 19 Avenue N, near the Creston & District Community Complex.
The current space in Creston (531B 16 Avenue S) no longer meets the needs of RDCK staff and the public. The space has accessibility challenges, is not ideal for customer service, and has insufficient parking for staff, fleet vehicles, and the public. As well, the office lacks an adequate number of workstations, private office space, meeting rooms, storage space, a functional lunchroom, staff-only washrooms, and RDCK branding. These limitations impact staff’s ability to deliver services.
Under the RDCK’s hybrid work model, some Nelson-based positions have relocated to Creston due to available amenities and lower housing costs. While the intention of a potential new office space is not for hiring additional positions or expanding government services, it is a significant factor in recruiting and retaining key positions at the RDCK. A new space would not only provide a more suitable workspace for current staff, but further enable existing positions to relocate to Creston.
The Board approved $13,000 in funds to develop a concept design and cost estimate for the potential renovation of the upper floor of Rotacrest Hall. The proposed office space would improve public access and is expected to enhance customer service by providing better parking, meeting space, and a modern lobby area. It meets the RDCK’s spatial requirements, with over double the square footage of the current space, is RDCK owned, and has existing amenities. The close proximity to the Creston & District Community Complex is beneficial to both staff and the public. The design concept is just the first step in the process. Once the concept is complete the RDCK Board will consider whether to proceed with development of the space as a RDCK office. Staff will be engaging with user groups and invested parties as part of the Board’s decision-making process.
“As our community grows, so too do the demands on our services,” said Stuart Horn, RDCK Chief Administrative Officer. “We have outgrown our current office space, which is no longer meeting the needs of the public or our staff. Relocating to a modern, accessible facility will allow us to better serve residents, provide a welcoming environment, and ensure our team has the space and amenities they need to deliver exceptional service.”
Currently the upper floor of the Rotacrest Hall is used for meeting room rentals and banquets. The RDCK acknowledges there are groups currently using the upper floor that would be directly impacted by the change, specifically the New Horizons Senior Society. However, the RDCK believes the needs of these groups can be accommodated within other nearby spaces and will work with these groups to identify options and enable a smooth transition should the hall be developed as office space. The main floor which is used by Valley Community Services for their Therapeutic Activation Program for Seniors will remain status quo.