Nelson, BC: On the recommendation of the BC Wildfire Service (BCWS), the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) has issued an Evacuation Alert for the entire Village of Silverton, and 14 surrounding addresses in Electoral Area “H”. See map of the Evacuation Alert area below.
At this time residents or visitors within the area are not required to evacuate, however the RDCK advises people to remain vigilant and be prepared to leave the area at a moment’s notice. It is recommended to prepare an emergency kit and ensure preparedness, including moving pets and livestock to a safe area, in the event the situation worsens and an Evacuation Order is enforced. Part of your plan should include where you can go if evacuated.
The Aylwin Creek wildfire was first discovered on July 18, 2024 and is estimated at 10 hectares in size. The BCWS has determined the causes to be a dry lightening strike.
Updates or changes to the Evacuation Alert will be provided via the RDCK website, Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) as more information becomes available. For details about evacuation and emergency preparedness, along with other resources, please visit www.rdck.ca/eocinfo. The RDCK EOC public inquiry line is 250.352.7701.
For up to date information on current wildfire activity, conditions and prohibitions, call 1.888.336.7378 or visit www.bcwildfire.ca.
For more information about evacuations and emergency preparedness, along with other resources:
Nelson, BC: On the recommendation of the BC Wildfire Service (BCWS), the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) has issued an Evacuation Order for 107 properties south of the Village of Silverton in the Red Mountain Road area, East of Slocan Lake, near the Highway 6 corridor. This is in addition to the previously evacuated properties west of Hwy 6. See map of the Evacuation Order area below.
Evacuation Order covers the following addresses:
8550 CEDAR DR 8560 CEDAR DR 7912 HIGHWAY 6 7914 HIGHWAY 6 7916 HIGHWAY 6 7918 HIGHWAY 6 7923 HIGHWAY 6 8150 HIGHWAY 6 8651 HIGHWAY 6 8656 HIGHWAY 6 8670 HIGHWAY 6 8749 HIGHWAY 6 8751 HIGHWAY 6 8755 HIGHWAY 6 8760 HIGHWAY 6 8788 HIGHWAY 6 8821 HIGHWAY 6 8822 HIGHWAY 6 8851 HIGHWAY 6 8876 HIGHWAY 6 8905 HIGHWAY 6 8906 HIGHWAY 6 8909 HIGHWAY 6 8921 HIGHWAY 6 8926 HIGHWAY 6 8941 HIGHWAY 6 8942 HIGHWAY 6 8953 HIGHWAY 6 8961 HIGHWAY 6 9089 HIGHWAY 6 9150 HIGHWAY 6 9155 HIGHWAY 6 9185 HIGHWAY 6 9191 HIGHWAY 6 9191 HIGHWAY 6 9191 HIGHWAY 6 9195 HIGHWAY 6 8010 LWR GALENA FARM RD 8012 LWR GALENA FARM RD 8014 LWR GALENA FARM RD 8016 LWR GALENA FARM RD 8018 LWR GALENA FARM RD 8021 LWR GALENA FARM RD 8171 OMA RD 8177 OMA RD 8180 OMA RD 8186 OMA RD 8195 OMA RD 8196 OMA RD 8019 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8020 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8046 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8070 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8088 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8095 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8099 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8102 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8112 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8141 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8150 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8157 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8164 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8165 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8173 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8201 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8230 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8235 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8237 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8241 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8250 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8277 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8296 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8297 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8310 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8321 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8370 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8383 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8391 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8407 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8413 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8418 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8425 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8428 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8446 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8449 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8465 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8470 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8473 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8479 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8494 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8497 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8503 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8521 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8522 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8526 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8527 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8530 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8545 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8559 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8576 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8580 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8590 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8595 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8596 RED MOUNTAIN RD 8067 UPPER GALENA FARM RD 8075 UPPER GALENA FARM RD 8085 UPPER GALENA FARM RD
Residents and Visitors are required to leave the Evacuation Order area immediately. Evacuated residents are asked to go to their pre-arranged emergency locations. Register for Emergency Support Services (ESS) in person located at the Kaslo & District Arena Association at 517 Arena Avenue in the Village of Kaslo OR register online at https://ess.gov.bc.ca/ or by calling: 1-800-387-4258.
For further assistance you can call the RDCK EOC pubic inquiry line at 250.352.7701.
ESS may not be able to accommodate your pets, so make sure you have prepared your pets by having appropriate cages, food, water and bowls, and ensure they are wearing identification. You may wish to arrange to have your pets cared for by family or friends.
Access to the Evacuation Order area is being controlled. You will not be permitted to return to your home during the Evacuation Order unless it is safe to do so and you have been given permission by local officials and emergency personnel.
The Aylwin Creek wildfire was first discovered on July 18, 2024 and is currently estimated at 10 hectares. The BCWS has determined the cause to be lightening.
Updates or changes to the Evacuation Order will be provided via the RDCK website, Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) as more information becomes available. For details about evacuation and emergency preparedness, along with other resources, please visit www.rdck.ca/eocinfo. The RDCK EOC public inquiry line is 250.352.7701.
For up to date information on current wildfire activity, conditions and prohibitions, call 1.888.336.7378 or visit www.bcwildfire.ca. For more information about evacuations and emergency preparedness, along with other resources:
Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) and BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) invite residents of Electoral Area H and the Village of Silverton, impacted by the Aylwin Creek and Komonko Creek wildfires to attend a public information session on Sunday, July 21 at 6:00 pm. Information on the Aylwin Creek and Komonko Creek wildfires will be provided. In attendance will be representatives from the BCWS and RDCK Emergency Operations Centre. There will also be an opportunity for residents to ask questions.
This public information session is strictly for those residents in Electoral Area H and the Village of Silverton impacted by the Aylwin Creek and Komonko Creek wildfires.
For updates on the incident, please visit www.rdck.ca or view the latest information on the current wildfire situation at BCWS.
Nelson, BC: On the recommendation of the BC Wildfire Service (BCWS), the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) has issued an Evacuation Order for 21 waterfront parcels, and a small portion of Valhalla Provincial Park, on the West shore of Slocan Lake in Electoral Area “H”. See map of the Evacuation Order area below.
Residents and vistors are required to leave the Evacuation Order area immediately. Evacuation residents are asked to go to their pre-arranged emergency locations. Updated July 20 at 10:53AM – Register for Emergency Support Services (ESS) in person located at the Kaslo & District Arena Association at 517 Arena Avenue in the Village of Kaslo, OR register online at https://ess.gov.bc.ca/ or by calling 1-800-387-4258. Short-term assistance for immediate needs of food, shelter and clothing may be provided by ESS volunteers following registration at the above website. For further assistance you can call the RDCK EOC public inquiry line at 250-352-7701.
ESS may not be able to accommodate your pets, so make sure you have prepared your pets by having appropriate cages, food, water and bowls, and ensure they are wearing identification. You may wish to arrange to have your pets cared for by family or friends.
Access to the Evacuation Order area is being controlled. You will not be permitted to return to your home during and Evacuation Order unless it is safe to do so and you have been given permission by local officials and emergency personnel.
The Nemo Creek 1 and 2 wildfires were first discovered on July 18 and are both currently estimated at less than 1 hectare. The BCWS has determined the cause to be lightning.
Updates or changes to the Evacuation Order will be provided via the RDCK website, Facebook and Twitter as more information becomes available. For details about evacuation and emergency preparedness, along with other resources, please visit www.rdck.ca/eocinfo. The RDCK EOC public inquiry line is 250-352-7701.
For up to date information on current wildfire activity, conditions and prohibitions, call 1-888-336-7378 or visit www.bcwildfire.ca.
For more information about evacuations and emergency preparedness, along with other resources:
Nelson, BC: On the recommendation of the BC Wildfire Service (BCWS), the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) has issued an Evacuation Alert for 16 properties, and a small portion of Valhalla Provincial Park, on the West shore of Slocan Lake in Electoral Area “H”. See map of the Evacuation Alert area below.
Evacuation Alert covers the following properties (PID):
At this time residents or visitors within the area are not required to evacuate, however the RDCK advises people to remain vigilant and be prepared to leave the area at a moment’s notice. It is recommended to prepare an emergency kit and ensure preparedness, including moving pets and livestock to a safe area, in the event the situation worsens and an Evacuation Order is enforced. Part of your plan should include where you can go if evacuated.
The Nemo Creek 1 and Nemo Creek 2 wildfires were first discovered on July 18, 2024 and are both estimated at less than 1 hectare in size. The BCWS has determined the causes to be a dry lightening strikes.
Updates or changes to the Evacuation Alert will be provided via the RDCK website, Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) as more information becomes available. For details about evacuation and emergency preparedness, along with other resources, please visit www.rdck.ca/eocinfo. The RDCK EOC public inquiry line is 250.352.7701.
For up to date information on current wildfire activity, conditions and prohibitions, call 1.888.336.7378 or visit www.bcwildfire.ca.
For more information about evacuations and emergency preparedness, along with other resources:
Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) has issued aWater Quality Advisoryfor users on the Duhamel Creek Water System in Electoral Area F. The system is located in the community of Duhamel on the north shore of the west arm of Kootenay Lake approximately 13 km northeast of Nelson.
The Water Quality Advisory has been issued due to recent test results indicating thatdrinking water quality may be a concern from the presence of Total Coliform bacteria. These bacteria are commonly found in the environment and are not likely to cause illness; however, their presence does indicate a potential pathway for contaminants to enter into the distribution system.
While health risks are considered low, the RDCK recommends that children, the elderly, people with weakened immune systems, and anyone seeking additional protection drink boiled water or a safe alternative until further notice.For these at-risk populations, water intended for drinking, washing fruits or vegetables, making beverages or ice, or brushing teeth should be boiled for one minute. Boiled water should then be refrigerated in a clean, covered container. Customers could also choose to use bottled or distilled water, or water that has been filtered through a well-maintained treatment device.
Owners of all public facilities must post a Water Quality Advisory at all sinks or drinking water fountains accessible to the public (alternatively, public fountains and taps may be turned off). As opportunities arise, they must also advise their clientele verbally of theWater Quality Advisory.
The RDCK will be taking measures to reduce risk; water quality will be monitored, and the public will be notified when the RDCK is able to lift the Water Quality Advisory.
We apologize for any inconvenience this might cause and appreciate your cooperation and patience during this time. For more information contact the RDCK (250) 352-8161 or visit our website at www.rdck.ca/water.
Nelson, BC: On the recommendation of the BC Wildfire Service (BCWS), the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) has issued an Evacuation Order for 11 properties in Electoral Area “H”, specific addresses listed below, and an Evacuation Alert for 91 properties in Area “H” See map of the area affected with the Evacuation Order area indicated in RED and Evacuation Alert area indicated in YELLOW below.
For a map of the Evacuation Order and Alert area click here.
The RDCK has declared a State of Local Emergency for Electoral Area ‘H’ due to the Aylwin Creek wildfire. Under B.C.’s Emergency Program Act, when a State of Emergency is declared, it provides the RDCK’s Emergency Operations Centre greater flexibility to access resources and respond efficiently to the imminent threat of wildfire across the region.
Residents and Visitors are required to leave the Evacuation Order area immediately. Evacuated residents are asked to go to their pre-arranged emergency locations and register online with Emergency Support Services (ESS) at https://ess.gov.bc.ca/. If you do not have a pre-arranged location and require support, please report to the Royal Canadian Legion at 502 Harold St, Slocan BC V0G 2C0. Short-term assistance for immediate needs of food, shelter and clothing may be provided by ESS volunteers following registration at the above website. For further assistance you can call the RDCK EOC pubic inquiry line at 250.352.7701.
ESS may not be able to accommodate your pets, so make sure you have prepared your pets by having appropriate cages, food, water and bowls, and ensure they are wearing identification. You may wish to arrange to have your pets cared for by family or friends.
Access to the Evacuation Order area is being controlled. You will not be permitted to return to your home during and Evacuation Order unless it is safe to do so and you have been given permission by local officials and emergency personnel.
The Aylwin creek wildfire was first discovered on July 18th and is currently estimated at 10 hectares. The BCWS has determined the cause to be lightning.
Updates or changes to the Evacuation Order will be provided via the RDCK website, Facebook and Twitter as more information becomes available. For details about evacuation and emergency preparedness, along with other resources, please visit www.rdck.ca/eocinfo. The RDCK EOC public inquiry line is 250.352.7701.
For up to date information on current wildfire activity, conditions and prohibitions, call 1.888.336.7378 or visit www.bcwildfire.ca.
For more emergency about evacuations and emergency preparedness, along with other resources:
Nelson, BC: Effective immediately, the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) is implementing mandatory Stage 2 Water Conservation Measures for all RDCK water systems. The RDCK currently operates 18 water systems.
The Stage 2 Water Conservation Measures have been implemented due to increased demands and in some cases, water treatment plant capacity with anticipated extreme hot/dry weather in the forecast.
Stage 2 Water Conservation Measures include:
Watering of lawns, gardens, trees and shrubs using a sprinkler or irrigation system is ONLY permitted between 6:00 am – 10:00 am and 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm.
Watering of gardens, trees and shrubs using a hand-held hose with a shut-off nozzle, a watering can, or drip-irrigation system is still permitted anytime.
The RDCK appreciates your cooperation in adhering to the above water conservation measures. Stage 2 Water Conservation Measures will remain in effect until further notice. Stricter water conservation measures may be required if demand increases significantly or hot and dry weather persists.
Click here for a complete description of RDCK water conservation measures stages 1 through 4, or visit www.rdck.ca/water.
Nelson, BC: Effective immediately, the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) is implementing mandatory Stage 2 Water Conservation Measures in the Erickson Water System. The system is located just outside the eastern border of Creston, crossing the boundary of RDCK Electoral Areas B and C.
The Stage 2 Water Conservation Measures have been implemented due to increased demands and near-capacity water treatment plant production, with anticipated extreme hot/dry weather in the forecast.
Stage 2 Water Conservation Measures include:
Watering of lawns, gardens, trees and shrubs using a sprinkler or irrigation system is ONLY permitted between 6:00 am – 10:00 am and 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm.
Watering of gardens, trees and shrubs using a hand-held hose with a shut-off nozzle, a watering can, or drip-irrigation system is still permitted anytime.
The RDCK appreciates your cooperation in adhering to the above water conservation measures. Stage 2 Water Conservation Measures will remain in effect until further notice. Stricter water conservation measures may be required if demand increases significantly, hot and dry weather persists, or if the reservoir declines to critically low levels.
Click here for a complete description of RDCK water conservation measures stages 1 through 4, or visit www.rdck.ca/water.
The Board approved the release of the 2023 Statement of Financial Information (SOFI) Report. In accordance with the Financial Information Act, the RDCK must make the SOFI available to the public each year. The purpose of the reporting is to ensure the transparency and accountability of the local government financial system. Click here to view the 2023 report.
Board of Directors Code of Conduct Policy
The Board directed staff to draft a revised Board of Directors code of conduct policy that incorporates principles from the Union of BC Municipalities Model Code of Conduct, and provisions commonly included in other local government codes of conduct. The policy sets out a number of general and specific expectations for the conduct of the Board of Directors. Revising the code of conduct aligns with the organizational excellence priority of the RDCK’s Strategic Plan. The benefits of an updated Board of Directors code of conduct policy include improved accountability, governance, and procedural fairness.
Financial Access and Inclusion Policy – Community Services
The Board approved the adoption of the Financial Access and Inclusion Policy for Community Services. The objective of the new policy is to support access and inclusion, while providing opportunities to all to realize the benefits of recreation services even if there are barriers to participate.
The policy includes four key components:
Leisure Access Program – provides subsidy rate to children and adults based on Low Income Measure;
Support for vulnerable populations and emergent needs – non-profit, government affiliated organizations receive courtesy passes to local recreation complexes;
No or low cost programing – creating additional opportunities to participate, including free service delivery and loonie/toonie swim and skate;
Caregivers support – one-on-one support workers to support others ability to use recreational facilities are not required to pay admission.
Regional Housing Needs Report Project
The Board approved the RDCK enter into a consulting service agreement with M’akola Development Services for the Regional Housing Needs Report. A housing needs assessment is a report that describes current and anticipated housing needs in a community by collecting data, analyzing trends, and speaking with community members to identify existing and future gaps in housing supply. The RDCK has partnered with the Village of Nakusp, Village of Slocan, and Village of Silverton to hire the consultant to complete the project.
In 2023 the BC Government passed several pieces of legislation that changed the local government land use planning framework with the purpose to provide more housing, in the right places, faster. Included is Bill 44 which requires all local governments to update Housing Needs Reports using a standard method on a regular basis for a more consistent, robust understanding of local housing needs over 20 years.
Director’sReports
RDCK Directors provide monthly reports outlining what they have been working on. Click here to read the June reports in the Board minutes.
RDCK Quarterly Report
For the latest RDCK Quarterly Report, which details the current projects and initiatives of the RDCK, please follow the link.
Nelson, BC: The result of the Alternative Approval Process (AAP) seeking electoral approval to provide medical first responder services within a defined portion of Electoral Area D has been tabulated and certified. Electoral approval for the new bylaw has been obtained.
Less than 10% of the eligible electors submitted an objection to the establishment of the service and as a result the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) Board of Directors will proceed with consideration of the bylaw. The results will be presented to the Board at the July 18 meeting. If approved by the Board, the Defined Area D Medical First Responder Service Bylaw No. 2923, 2023 will be adopted.
This new bylaw will establish a medical first responder service to provide pre-hospital care by responders trained by an accredited agency and licensed by the Emergency Medical Assistant Licensing Board. Services will be provided to areas of Electoral Area D not part of the Kaslo Fire Protection Area. Click here for a detailed map.
“This is an important d much needed service to provide our rural residents,” said Aimee Watson, RDCK Board Chair and Electoral Area D Director. “The ability to provide pre-hospital care with the necessary capacity will improve emergency services for our communities. While Area D has had a first responder service for over a decade, it was not sufficient and lacked full cost recovery from all those that were benefitting. With this new service, we will see a new recruitment program and additional vehicles to support the service.”
Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) is pleased to announce the Duhamel water main replacement project has been completed for the Duhamel Water System in Electoral Area F.
The project included replacing 400 metres of 4” asbestos cement pipe with 8” industry standard PVC, upgrading service connections to affected properties, and installing a fire hydrant. The project was completed over two years to coincide with the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure’s North Shore repaving project, finished in 2023, and the completion of construction of the new water main in 2024.
“This project supports recently adopted RDCK policy for the decommissioning of asbestos cement pipe in RDCK owned water systems, and is a proactive approach to minimizing legacy contamination for future generations,” said Alex Divlakovski, RDCK Water Operations Manager.
To date, there is no Federal or Provincial legislation that requires the removal of abandoned, buried, and unexposed asbestos cement pipe.
The RDCK wishes to thank Electoral Area F Director, Tom Newell, for contributing $150,000 in Community Works Grant funding. The project also received $84,624 from the Provincial Growing Communities Fund. The total cost of the project was $593,000.
Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) has begun major upgrades at three waste facilities in Nakusp, Rosebery, and Slocan. These projects will replace aging infrastructure, increase site capacity, and improve the efficiency of waste management in the area. Construction at the Nakusp Landfill is just beginning, while work at the Rosebery Transfer Station and Slocan Transfer Station will follow in the coming months.
The Nakusp Landfill upgrades will include the development of a new tipping area, addition of compacting bins, recycling area improvements, and upgrades to site roads, security, electric fencing and gates. This work is already in progress and will proceed until September. Little to no service impacts are expected during construction. Access to the active face, waste transfer bins, wood waste, yard and garden, and metal drop-off areas are all expected to be maintained. Construction of the new tipping area is the first phase of work to transition the site from an operating landfill to a transfer station, as identified in the RDCK’s 2021 Resource Recovery Plan.
Landfilling at Nakusp will continue for approximately one more year as the RDCK prepares for final closure; at that time, the transfer station service will continue to serve the majority of the area’s waste disposal needs by transferring waste to the Ootischenia Landfill.
“As a small landfill, the Nakusp site has a significantly higher cost per tonne to manage waste than larger landfills,” said Uli Wolf, RDCK Environmental Services General Manager. “Further, the next phase of landfilling at Nakusp would require building a mandatory base liner and leachate collection system, which would move the cost per tonne in Nakusp well beyond a reasonable level for our residents.”
The upgrades at the Rosebery Transfer Station include the addition of a compactor bin, expansion of the tipping area to include a yard and garden waste bin, adjustment to the access road, and installation of site surveillance. This work is scheduled to commence in August through to October.
Work at the Slocan Transfer Station is scheduled to commence in early October and be completed by late December. The facility`s aging bin wall will be replaced and a new staff washroom installed.
The work at the Rosebery Transfer Station and Slocan Transfer Station will be done in succession, and each site will be temporarily closed during construction. The RDCK will accommodate service disruptions through increased hours of operation and staffing at the closest neighbouring facility for both waste and recycling.
The RDCK will post a simplified project schedule along with other updates as they occur on our website: www.rdck.ca/2024Construction.
Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) is beginning phase two of Reimagining Recreation Services in the Castlegar & District Area, with the launch of a resident survey. The survey is intended to gather resident feedback to help the Recreation Commission of Area I, Area J, and City of Castlegar plan the future of recreation services and understand resident’s thoughts on the following topics:
What enhancements or additional amenities are needed or desired at the Castlegar & District Community Complex?
What improvements to recreation services are needed overall in the Castlegar & District Area (outside the Community Complex)?
What is the community willing or able to fund for potential enhancements or additional recreation amenities?
This phase of the community consultation process will also include a group survey to understand Castlegar & District recreation group’s perspectives. This survey will be shared directly with recreation groups.
Information gathered from the resident and group surveys will help determine the communities’ priorities for recreation today and identify how the RDCK can improve current programs and amenities offered. In addition, it will determine future recreation planning priorities for the RDCK based on how the community would like their tax dollars spent in the Castlegar & District Area.
Phase one of the process, which was recently completed, included hosting a series of community meetings throughout Castlegar and Areas I and J. The intent of the meetings was to inform residents about the consultation process and how it could lead to potential service enhancements, layout how the engagement process will be completed, share information about the current state of recreation services, and gather feedback from the community on the future of recreation in Castlegar and Areas I and J.
Upon completion of the survey, residents are eligible to enter a draw for one of three $100 Grocery Store Gift Cards.
Deadline for residents to share their thoughts is July 5 at 4:00pm PT. Residents can fill out the survey here or go to engage.rdck.ca for more information on the community consultation process.
Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) is pleased to announce that effective immediately the long-standing Boil Water Notice issuedfor users on the Woodbury Village Water System has been downgraded to a Water Quality Advisory.The system is located on Woodbury Village Road along Highway 3A between Ainsworth Hot Springs and the Village of Kaslo, within RDCK Electoral Area D.
On October 5, 2018 a Boil Water Notice was issued due to water treatment components not meeting Provincial treatment requirements for surface water. Equipment upgrades to the treatment facility have been installed under an Interior Health Construction Permit, and are operating as designed. During the commissioning period of the upgraded facility, the Environmental Health Officer has agreed to reduce the long-standing Boil Water Notice to a Water Quality Advisory.
While health risks are considered low under a Water Quality Advisory, the RDCK and Interior Health recommend that children, the elderly, people with weakened immune systems, and anyone seeking additional protection drink boiled water or a safe alternative until further notice. For these at-risk populations, water intended for drinking, washing fruits or vegetables, making beverages or ice, or brushing teeth should be boiled for one minute. Boiled water should then be refrigerated in a clean, covered container. Customers could also choose to use bottled or distilled water, or water that has been filtered through a well-maintained treatment device.
Woodbury water system was created in 1985 to service the Woodbury Village development. The Woodbury Village Services Society took ownership in 1988 and operated the system as a community until 2012. The RDCK took over operations of the Woodbury Village Water System in January 2012.
“This is a success story for a small water system that has faced so many challenges similar to other water systems in the area,” explained Alex Divlakovski, RDCK Water Operations Manager. “There is a significant portion of residents in the RDCK who receive water from systems that face the uphill battle to improve water quality issues, meet regulatory requirements, replace aging infrastructure, and employ certified operators,” continued Divlakovski, “and many aren’t even aware of the potential supply or health risks they face.”
The RDCK currently owns and operates 18 water systems within the RDCK. Staff will be presenting a Water and Wastewater System Acquisition Plan to the Board of Directors in June for approval, which may result in rescinding the existing moratorium on acquiring new systems. Both the Provincial Ministry of Health and Interior Health have provided letters of support for lifting the moratorium.
The RDCK wishes to thank Electoral Area D Director, Aimee Watson, for Community Works Grant funding that contributed to the success of the project, and the Woodbury Village community members for their patience and support as we work to achieve full regulatory compliance.
Senior government grant funding provided a large portion of the financial contributions necessary for the upgrades.
Nelson, BC: Due to mechanical issues, the opening date for the Salmo Pool has been delayed by just over 10 days. Originally scheduled to open June 5, the new tentative opening date is Sunday, June 16.
Last year, the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) facility had extensive work done to upgrade the mechanical room, including the addition of two new high efficiency boilers, new plumbing, and a new chemical feeding system. During this spring`s start up for the Salmo Pool, some deficiencies were identified and it was determined a small redesign of piping would be required to operate the mechanical system. This work is expected to be completed by the week of June 10. This will then provide staff with approximately a week to have the facility operational, including filling, filtering, and balancing the pool
We appreciate the community`s patience and understanding through this minor setback. The safety of our staff and users remains the top priority. The RDCK’s project management team will continue to work with the contractor to get the work done correctly by the revised opening date.
The Board approved the 2024 Columbia Basin Trust Resident Directed (ReDi) grant funding. A total of $1,447,575.31 in funding will be allocated to 290 different project proposals. 22 community input meetings were held across the RDCK during the month of April. This was an opportunity for each community to provide feedback on the proposals. Results from the community engagement were considered at each Area’s adjudication committee meeting. Click here for a complete list of all the recipients of ReDi funding. The programs support local projects that provide additional value to Basin communities, and that benefit the broad community and public good.
Memorandum of Understanding – Castlegar and District Economic Development Partnership
The Board authorized a memorandum of understanding between the RDCK (Electoral Areas I and J) and the City of Castlegar for the Castlegar and District Economic Development Partnership. The purpose of the partnership is to establish a sustainable partnership and funding model that uses a collaborative, strategic approach to generate long term capacity, thus ensuring the current and future economic well being of the community in the City of Castlegar and RDCK Areas I and J.
Community Futures Central Kootenay and the Castlegar and District Chamber of Commerce will provide economic development administration and coordination services on behalf of the partners, including – managing program finances, develop advisory and partners committees, business community liaison, grant writing support, and leverage funding. The terms of the agreement will see the Memorandum of Understanding in place until December 31, 2026.
Parkland Dedication Policy
The Board adopted the new Parkland Dedication Policy, effective January 1, 2025. The revised policy addresses inconsistencies between the old policy (originally adopted in 2010) and the Local Government Act (LGA), as well as addressing community parkland needs in the RDCK.
The LGA requires local governments to take land to be dedicated as parkland at the time of subdivision, or cash-in-lieu of parkland where authorized to do so. This section of the LGA is intended to ensure that developers bear the costs of providing parkland opposed to local taxpayers in the future.
Parkland dedication is required for subdivisions that create three or more new lots that are smaller than 2 hectares. Generally, 5% of the land proposed for subdivision must be dedicated as parkland. When it comes to a payment of cash-in-lieu of parkland, the BC Assessment assessed value will be used as a baseline.
Audited Financial Statements
The Board approved the 2023 audited financial statements by BDO Canada. Audited financial statements provide a consolidated and independently verified overview of a local government’s financial activities over the course of the previous fiscal year and its financial position at the end of that year. Click here to view the 2023 audited financial statements.
911 Service Agreement Renewal
The Board approved the renewal of the 911 Service Agreement with the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George (RDFFG) for fire/rescue dispatching services for a term ending December 31, 2028. The dispatching services by RDFFG are an integral component of every emergency response made by RDCK Regional Fire Services, while also enhancing safety through precise and effective communications. The RDCK has been using the RDFFG’s services since 2018.
Dog Control Services
The Board directed staff to review current dog control service levels, evaluate the opportunities for a standardized service level across RDCK rural areas, and evaluate options for dog control service to be provided by the RDCK bylaw enforcement team. Currently, dog control services are contracted out, however an integrated enforcement approach could prove to be more cost efficient. Additionally, staff are directed to draft a “responsible dog owner`s bylaw” for Board consideration, and draft an establishment bylaw to deliver dog control service to all rural areas in the RDCK. As part of the process staff will consult with municipalities on interest in the service.
Director’sReports
RDCK Directors provide monthly reports outlining what they have been working on. Click here to read the May reports in the Board minutes.
RDCK Quarterly Report
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Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) is embarking on a month-long engagement process to support the development of a Regional Parks, Trails, and Water Access Strategy, which will help inform the planning, decision-making, and management of the Regional Parks and Trails Services over the next 10 years. The RDCK is seeking residents input to hear their thoughts on the current state and future of Regional Parks, Trails, and Water Access points in the RDCK.
“Our goal at the RDCK is to provide top-notch nature-based recreation opportunities while supporting the economic, social, and environmental objectives of the region,” said Trisha Davison, RDCK Regional Manager – Recreation & Client Services. “To achieve this, we’re crafting a Regional Parks, Trails, and Water Access Strategy to guide our efforts for the next 10 years.”
Information gathered throughout the engagement period will help create a clear understanding of the existing parks, trails, and water access areas that we have now, how well they are meeting the needs of residents, what opportunities we want in the future, and how we can make it happen.
“We value input from all residents, whether you are a regular user of parks, trails or water access points or not,” said Davison. “Resident feedback will help guide our efforts to enhance these vital resources and ensure we are moving in the direction RDCK residents want.”
Residents can share their thoughts by filling out a survey, placing points and adding comments onto an interactive map, or through direct conversations, as we will be popping up in high-traffic locations around the RDCK between May 23 and 25.
Learn more about how you can participate in the upcoming Regional Parks, Trails and Water Access Strategy engagement process at engage.rdck.ca.
