Category: Uncategorized

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.

Click here to view a print-friendly PDF version.

2023 Statement of Financial Information Report

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’s Reports

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.

Click here to view a print-friendly PDF version.

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.”

Information about the potential tax impact and additional information can be found at: www.rdck.ca/AreaDFirstResponder.

Click here to view a print-friendly PDF version.

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.

Click here to view a print-friendly PDF version.

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.

Click here to view a print-friendly PDF version.

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.

Click here to view a print-friendly PDF version.

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.

Click here to view a print-friendly PDF version.

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.

Click here to view a print-friendly PDF version. 

Resident Directed (ReDi) grant funding

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’s Reports

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

For the latest RDCK Quarterly Report, which details the current projects and initiatives of the RDCK, please follow the link.

Click here to view a print-friendly PDF version.

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.

Click here to view a print-friendly PDF version.

Nelson, BC: Effective Thursday, June 1, 2024, mandatory stage 1 water conservation measures will be implemented across all Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) water systems. These measures will remain in place from June 1 through September 30. Stage 1 may increase to one of three additional stages should demand increase significantly, hot and dry weather persists, or if reservoirs decline to critically low levels.

Stage 1 Water Conservation Measures include:

• Water of lawns (including new lawns), gardens, trees, and shrubs ONLY between the hours of 7:00 pm to 10:00 am.
• Watering using drip irrigation, a watering can, and or hand held hose is permitted at anytime.

Click here for a complete description of RDCK water conservation measures stages 1 through 4, or visit www.rdck.ca/water.

The RDCK appreciates water user’s ongoing cooperation in adhering to the water conservation measures.

Click here to view a print-friendly PDF version.

Nelson, BC:  The official results of the May 11, 2024 referendums for curbside collection services have been declared by the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) Chief Elections Officer. The proposed curbside collection services bylaw in defined areas F and H and in defined areas of area J did not receive voter assent.  

REGIONAL DISTRICT OF CENTRAL KOOTENAY
DEFINED AREAS F AND H CURBSIDE COLLECTION SERVICE ESTABLISHMENT BYLAW NO. 2933
ASSENT VOTING – OFFICIAL RESULTS

Nelson, BC:  The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) is seeking information from the public to help locate the persons responsible for vandalism at Waterloo Eddy Regional Park (695 Waterloo Road, Ootischenia) in Electoral Area J.

Damage was discovered at Waterloo Eddy Regional Park and was reported to RDCK staff on the morning of May 2. When staff went to assess the damage it appeared as if a large machine entered the park by removing barriers meant to restrict motorized use and continued along the pedestrian path removing additional barriers. Many of the barriers removed were disposed of in riparian areas below causing significant damage.

“I am saddened to see the vandalism that occurred at Waterloo Eddy Regional Park,” said Henny Hanegraaf, RDCK Electoral Area J Director. “The Park is an outdoor space for all local residents to enjoy, in its natural state, which was expressed by residents during a public consultation process in 2015.”

The board adopted Waterloo Eddy Regional Park Management Plan, in 2016, which restricts motor vehicle access to the park due to the impact they cause to the terrestrial and aquatic habitats. Motorized vehicle access is restricted to the designated parking lot at the north end of the park. Landscape design, barriers and fencing are used to prevent motorized access to the back eddy, seasonally flooded areas, and remaining areas of the park.

This is the fourth vandalism incident that has happened at Waterloo Eddy Regional Park within the last two years. Acts of vandalism cost thousands of dollars worth of damage to our parks every year.

If you have any information in regards to the incidents please call the Castlegar RCMP at 250.365.7721 to speak with an investigator or email bylaw@rdck.bc.ca to submit a complaint.

Click here for a print-friendly PDF version.

Next week marks Local Government Awareness Week (May 12-18). The annual initiative’s objective is to build public awareness of local government roles and services, while encouraging the public to participate in local government processes.

What is a regional district? Regional districts are a form of local government that is unique to British Columbia, consisting of a federation of rural areas and incorporated municipalities. Regional districts provide direct representation to rural areas while advocating for both rural areas and municipalities on issues of regional importance. Regional districts enable cooperation between municipalities and rural areas to support the economic, social, and environmental goals of the region. The RDCK is one of 27 regional districts in BC.

How are regional districts governed? Like all local governments in Canada, the Regional District of Central Kootenay is granted its powers by the province. For regional districts in BC, these powers are primarily derived from the Local Government Act. The principal decision-making body in a regional district is the Board of Directors. There are two kinds of directors: Electoral Area Directors are directly elected to the Board by the voters of an electoral area every four years, while Municipal Directors are first elected to their respective councils, then appointed by their council to the Board to serve a one-year term. In the RDCK, there are eleven Electoral Area Directors and nine Municipal Directors that serve on the Board. The Board also elects its own Chair and Vice-Chair to serve one-year terms. The Chair presides over Board meetings, directs the overall management of the business and affairs of the regional district, and ensures that the law is carried out for the improvement and good government of the regional district and its residents.

What services does a regional district provide? No regional district provides identical services, as every region has its unique needs. The Board determines which services are provided, and where they will be provided. In some cases, residents of an area decide whether or not they would like a service to be established through a petition, an alternative approval process (also known as an AAP, a type of plebiscite or counter-petition) or assent vote (referendum). As a result of this framework, some services are provided are provided in certain communities, specific electoral areas or portions thereof, municipalities, or the entire regional district. Regional districts are required to match the cost of its services to the people who benefit from them. In other words, residents only pay for what they get.

RELATED LINKS: A Community Effort, UBCM; Regional Districts in BC, municipal affairs

Electoral Areas: The RDCK provides services and governance to residents living outside of member municipalities in eleven rural electoral areas. These electoral areas comprise over 99 percent of the RDCK’s land area and just over half of the RDCK’s population. Directors for each electoral area are elected by residents every four years.

Member Municipalities: The RDCK has nine incorporated municipalities, consisting of two cities, one town, and six villages. Directors from each municipality are appointed by their respective councils to serve a one-year term on the RDCK Board.

RELATED LINKS: A Guide to RD Board Delegation to Committees and Commissions

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: Visit the Local Government Awareness website

This Saturday, May 11, from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm, is General Voting Day for two referendums on the proposed curbside collection service for residents in Electoral Areas F, H, and J. Electors within the boundary of the service area are the only persons entitled to participate in this assent vote.

In defined portions of Electoral Areas F and H, residents are being asked: 

Are you in favour of the Regional District of Central Kootenay adopting Defined Areas F & H Curbside Collection Service Establishment Bylaw No. 2933, 2023, which will permit the Regional District to establish a 3 stream curbside collection service with waste, organics and recycling for defined portions of Electoral Areas F & H; which if approved will result in an annual requisition not to exceed $596,235.28 based on a cost per household of $280.02? 
☐ YES      ☐ NO

Voting Locations
RDCK Nelson Office – 202 Lakeside Drive, Nelson
Crescent Valley Hall – 1385 Highway 6, Crescent Valley

For more information: www.rdck.ca/FHCurbside 

In defined portion of Electoral Area J, residents are being asked:

Are you in favour of the Regional District of Central Kootenay adopting Defined Area J Curbside Collection Service Establishment Bylaw No. 2934, 2023, which will permit the Regional District to establish a curbside collection service for defined portions of Electoral Area J; which if approved will result in an annual requisition not to exceed $406,818.39 based on a cost per household of $283.06. 
☐ YES      ☐ NO

Voting Location
Castlegar & District Community Complex – 2101 6th Avenue, Castlegar

For more information: www.rdck.ca/JCurbside 

Nelson, BC:  In recognition of Emergency Preparedness Week (May 5-11), the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) will be conducting its annual TEST of the Emergency Notification System on Tuesday, May 7^th at approximately 2:00 pm. Anyone registered with the RDCK’s Emergency Notification System will receive a TEST NOTIFICATION via mobile phone (text), email, landline call, or Voyent Alert! app, depending on which notification option you chose when you signed up.

Emergency Preparedness Week, a national awareness initiative that has taken place every year since 1996, is an opportunity to take action to ensure you are prepared to protect yourself, your family and your community during an emergency.

If you are new to the area, or have not yet signed up for emergency notifications, please go to www.rdck.ca/notifications. To ensure you receive important emergency information relevant to your location, it is imperative that residents update their account with accurate location information. Please take this opportunity to log in to the system and double check your details: www.rdck.ca/notifications.

“We encourage all RDCK residents to sign up for emergency notification alerts to ensure they are receiving accurate and current information, “said Dan Séguin, RDCK Manager of Community Sustainability. “Now, before an emergency occurs, is the time for all residents to prepare by updating their emergency plans and making grab and go kits for each member of the family.”

The City of Nelson, which also uses Voyent Alert! as their Emergency Notification System, will also be running a TEST earlier the same day. 

Everyone has a role to play in an emergency, and Emergency Preparedness Week is a great opportunity for residents to take action:

• Sign up to receive RDCK Emergency Notifications or login to update your set locations
• Get a “grab and go” kit
• Make a home emergency plan with this handy template
• Plan for your pets
• Plan for where you will go if you need to evacuate
• Learn more about emergency preparedness

Click here to view a print-friendly PDF version.

RDCK Adopts RDCK Ideas for Climate Action

The Board of Directors adopted the RDCK Ideas for Climate Action. Following extensive public time and a thorough debate between the Directors, the Board voted in favour of the following resolution:

That staff be directed to explore new climate action items impacting RDCK residents and make recommendations to the Board based on the RDCK Ideas for Climate Action document presented at the April 18, 2024 Board meeting, and FURTHER, that those items that were identified as high priorities in our consultation process, are practicable, and fiscally feasible are presented to the Board with a business case prior to proceeding, with funding ideally being provided by polluter superfunds.

The RDCK Ideas for Climate Action include potential actions in the following areas: transportation and mobility, planning for growth, supporting farmers, improving water access for farmers, protecting and conserving water, mitigating risks from floods and geohazards, wood chipping, and divestment from fossil fuel investments.

Due to interest in this Board item, there was significant public attendance at the meeting with over 160 people online and in person. As a result, the Board allowed for one hour of public time instead of the normal 15 minutes to answer all questions from the public.

Electoral Area D Medical First Responder Service – Alternative Approval Process

The Board directed staff to proceed with obtaining approval of the electors within a defined portion of Electoral Area D to establish the Defined Area D Medical First Responder Bylaw. This defined part of Electoral Area D is not included in the Kaslo Fire Protection Area. The new bylaw would establish a service for the purpose of providing immediate life saving interventions on scene while awaiting additional medical resources or transport.

Approval is to be obtained through the Alternative Approval Process (AAP). The Board obtains approval if fewer than 10% of eligible electors in the area covered by the AAP submit elector response forms in opposition of the particular matter. The elector response form must be received before 4:00 pm on June 17, 2024.

RDCK staff will be on hand at the Lardeau Valley Marketfest & Emergency Preparedness Fair on Sunday, May 12 from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at the Meadow Creek Bar & Grill (13308 Highway 31) to answer any questions you may have about the proposed service.

New user fees and rental fees for RDCK Community Services

The Board approved a 3.9% increase to all user fees and rental fees at the Castlegar & District Community Complex, Creston & District Community Complex, Nelson & District Community Complex, and Salmo & Area G Recreation effective September 3, 2024. The increase is based upon the February 2024 British Columbia cost of Living Index increase of 3.9%. Recreation services at the RDCK are funded through a combination of user fees and taxation, resulting in recreation being subsidized by the community for the benefit of the community. Click here for the new fees and charges for admissions and rentals.

Kitchener Fire Response Petition

The Board approved staff to prepare a petition, regarding the establishment of a fire response service for the community of Kitchener in Electoral Area B. The proposed service area includes 215 properties and the potential fire response service would be managed under contract by the Town of Creston.

The owners of parcels in an Electoral Area may sign and submit to the RDCK a petition for a service in all or part of that Electoral Area. Each page of a petition must:

• Describe in general terms the service that is proposed;
• Define the boundaries of the proposed service area;
• Indicate in general terms the proposed method for recovering annual costs;
• Contain other information that the Board may require.

For a petition to be valid, it must be signed by owners of at least 50 percent of the parcels that would be liable to pay for the proposed service that represent at least 50 percent of the assessed value of land and improvements that would be in the proposed service area.

RDCK Board Meeting Recordings

Starting with the April 2024 RDCK Board meeting, all monthly Board meetings will now be recorded and shared with the public. All recordings can be found on the RDCK YouTube page.

Director’s Reports

RDCK Directors provide monthly reports outlining what they have been working on. Click here to read the April 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.

Click here for a print-friendly PDF version. 

Nelson, BC: The BC Wildfire Service will be supporting the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) and Kalesnikoff Lumber Company, in conducting a prescribed burn covering up to 38 hectares in the Selous Creek area about two kilometers south of Nelson, to help reduce wildfire threats.

The exact timing of this burn will depend on weather and site conditions, but it could begin as early as Monday April 22. Burning will proceed if conditions are suitable and allow for smoke dispersal during burn operations, though smoke may also linger in the following days. Smoke may impact residents near the burn area and may be visible from Nelson and surrounding areas, and to motorists travelling along Highway 6 and 3A.

Due to the prescribed burn, a portion of the Nelson Salmo Great Northern Trail will have signage and flaggers in place. Please adhere to all signage and instructions from flaggers on the trail. Trail users can expect trail use disruption.

This project has been a collaboration over the last five years with several project partners including the RDCK, Kalesnikoff Lumber, BC Wildfire Service, City of Nelson, Selkirk College, and consultants. The outcome of the fuel management project aims at reducing wildfire risk in Selous Creek near the City of Nelson by modifying the fuel load and completing a prescribed burn. This unique project started with funding support from the Forest Enhancement Society of BC and is an example of the high level of collaboration between regional and municipal governments, fire services and a local timber licensee.

This complex project covers an area of approximately 80 hectares (ha). The following phases of treatment are completed:

• 65 ha of mechanical harvesting by Kalesnikoff Lumber;
• 20 ha of mechanical fuel modification to pile debris;
• 35 ha of machine-tethered fuel modification to create a debris-free fireguard around the outer perimeter of the harvested area and around reserve patches;
• 5.5 ha of understory hand treatment along The Vein bike trail and surrounding areas; and,
• 7.5 ha of understory hand treatment along the Rail Trail.

Additional information is available at www.rdck.ca/Selous.

If you have questions, please contact project manager John Cathro at cathro@netidea.com or 250.505.3513.

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Nelson, BC: Nelson, BC: This week marks National Volunteer Week across Canada and the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) is fortunate to work with hundreds of volunteers across the entire organization. The RDCK has dedicated volunteers in numerous areas, including, committees, commissions, fire departments, search and rescue organizations, emergency support services, societies, as well as advisory and community groups.

“The RDCK is very fortunate to have so many community-minded residents who are willing to give back,” said Stuart Horn, RDCK Chief Administrative Officer. “I want to thank all of our volunteers who offer up their time and energy to support our services.”

The benefits of volunteering include building confidence, competence, connections, and community. Even the smallest amount of community involvement can have an everlasting impact on the community.

“Volunteers are fundamental in providing recreation opportunities for people of all ages in our communities,” said Joe Chirico, RDCK General Manager of Community Services. “Without them, many sports, community programs, and special events would not happen. We thank all volunteers for their willingness to give back to their communities.”

All RDCK fire departments operate on a volunteer basis. In total there are over 300 volunteer firefighters across 16 departments; dedicated individuals who did not hesitate to stand up and serve their community.

“Volunteer firefighters are the backbone of the Canadian fire service,” said David Zayonce, RDCK Regional Fire Chief. “Our volunteers are members of our community, our family, and we are so fortunate to have so many willing to support their communities. As part of National Volunteer Week, I would like to recognize the tremendous service provided by the volunteer firefighters at our respective departments across the RDCK.”

This week, during National Volunteer Week, take a moment to recognize those who choose to give back; through their kindness, generosity and commitment to volunteering. Thank you.

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Nelson, BC: The Castlegar, Creston and Nelson Community Complexes will be offering increased hours of operation for their aquatic centres. The expanded hours of operation will begin at the Castlegar and District Community Complex on April 14 and at the Creston and Nelson Community Complexes on April 21.

“We are happy to announce, that we can now begin to offer increased hours of operation at our three main facilities,” said Craig Stanley, Regional Manager – Operations and Asset Management. “These increased hours of operation would not have been possible without the effort taken to promote and provide training opportunities within the RDCK region.”

Starting in early 2023, the RDCK began offering subsidized courses to support the continued growth and succession of lifeguards, swim instructors, fitness instructors and personal trainers.

“Staffing availability has significantly increased when the RDCK began offering free and subsidized training opportunities,” said Stanley. “With the increase in qualified staff, we are now able to offer increased hours of operation at our three main recreation facilities, with the potential of continued increases to come.”

The increased hours of operations for each facility are as follows:

Castlegar and District Community Complex

 Creston and District Community Complex

Nelson and District Community Complex

*Notes increased hours

You can find all pool, fitness centre and facility hours of operation on our website at rdck.ca/recreation.

Anybody who is interested in pursuing their lifeguard, swim instructor, fitness instructor or personal trainer certification can contact any of our RDCK facilities or visit rdck.ca/GetTraining for information about training opportunities.

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