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Nelson, BC: The fire departments of the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) Fire Service are participating in Fire Prevention Week, October 8-14, 2023. This year’s campaign is “Cooking safety starts with you. Pay attention to fire prevention.” The intent of this year’s Fire Prevention Week is to educate the community about simple, but important actions they can take to keep themselves and those around them safer when cooking.   

“Cooking fires are the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries,” said Gord Ihlen, RDCK Fire Prevention Officer. “Unattended cooking can lead to fires and potentially worse. The good news is you can prevent most cooking fires and burns and help keep your family safer with some simple but effective tips.”

The RDCK Regional Fire Service encourages all residents to embrace the 2023 Fire Prevention Week theme.

Here are some important cooking safety tips:

Cook with caution:

• Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol don’t use the stove or stovetop.
• Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, boiling, grilling, or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove.
• If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the home while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
• Keep anything that can catch fire — oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains — away from your stovetop.

If you have a small (grease) cooking fire and decide to fight the fire:

• On the stovetop, smother the flames by sliding a lid over the pan and turning off the burner. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.
• For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.

 If you have any doubt about fighting a small fire:

• Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
• Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number from outside the home.

To find out more about Fire Prevention Week programs and activities in the RDCK, please contact the local fire department in your area at www.rdck.ca/firedepartments or contact the Regional Fire Service Office at 250.352.1570 or email fireadmin@rdck.bc.ca.

For more information about fire prevention, visit:

• Office of the Fire Commissioner: www.gov.bc.ca/FireSafety
• National Fire Protection Association (NFPA): www.nfpa.org/Events/Events/Fire-Prevention-Week
• Sparky’s Fire Safety Club: www.sparky.org

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Each service has differing capital reserve balances, which are impacted by overall contribution to capital reserves and prior capital purchases. As an example, in the Slocan Valley Fire Service, capital reserve funds were applied over the past two years to required water tender replacements in Slocan and Winlaw and a fire engine replacement for Crescent Valley.

All residents within a fire service area participate in costs for that service. Two of the services – the Slocan Valley Fire Protection Service and Tarrys and Pass Creek Fire Protection Service, operate more than one fire protection area with corresponding fire departments in the service area.

“Should long term financing not be approved for a service, each service will still need to replace their fire engine in order to continue to provide essential fire suppression services in their communities,” said Hannon. “This could be done through short term financing.”

Advance voting will start November 22 and general polls will be open December 2.

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Assent Voting – Fire Protection Service Loan Authorization

Assent voting will be held on December 2, 2023 on the North Shore (Electoral Area F) for the approval of a 20-year financing term up to $368,018 for the purchase of a new fire engine for the North Shore Fire Department, within the North Shore fire protection service area. You must be a resident or non-resident property owner of the North Shore Fire Protection Service Area in Electoral Area F to vote.

In the past the RDCK has used a combination of short term financing (which does not need voter assent) and capital reserves to purchase fire engines. However, due to inflation, a new fire engine is anticipated to cost up to $750,000. The North Shore Fire Department has contributions from capital reserves ($237,000) and the Growing Communities Fund ($144,982) to offset the cost of the fire engine. The RDCK has chosen long-term financing over 20 years to reduce the burden on the tax payer. If residents were to vote against long-term financing, the service will need to purchase new fire engines under short-term financing.

For more information www.rdck.ca/NSfireengine

Electoral Area F to join Local Conservation Fund

Electoral Area F has officially joined the Local Conservation Fund. The Board approved the amendment to the Local Conservation Fund Service Establishment Bylaw No. 2420, 2014 to include Electoral Area F as a participant and $15 per parcel of land will be collected annually. The bylaw received electoral approval via the Alternative Approval Process. Just one electoral response form was received during the process.

In partnership with the Kootenay Conservation Program (KCP), Electoral Area F will join Areas A, D, E, and H in the local conservation fund service. The service creates dedicated funding to support local high-priority conservation projects. Since 2016 the fund has generated $535,000 and has leveraged over $2 million in additional funding and in-kind support.

Staff Safety and Harassment Policy

A Staff Safety and Harassment Policy has been adopted by the RDCK Board. The RDCK is committed to providing a safe workplace for its staff, free of physical or psychological violence, bullying and harassment and this policy formally defines inappropriate behaviour for the purpose of the RDCK’s public-facing operations. In addition to setting the basic expectations for public behaviour at RDCK facilities, the policy outlines the steps that will be followed when incidents occur and ensures that the RDCK will adhere to the principles of procedural fairness in any incident involving members of the public.

Regional Accessibility Advisory Committee

The Board approved the creation of the Regional Accessibility Advisory Committee by adopting a bylaw and appointing RDCK Directors Arnold DeBoon (Town of Creston) and Andy Davidoff (Electoral Area I) to the committee. Establishing this committee is a requirement for the RDCK resulting from the Accessible BC Act enacted by the province in 2021. The Committee will advise the RDCK and provide input and recommendations on the development of the accessibility plan. By removing barriers, accessibility encourages public engagement and may provide new opportunities within programs, services, initiatives or facilities for individuals interacting with the RDCK.

West Transit Services Committee

A new committee to improve governance of West Kootenay Transit has officially been created. The objectives of the West Transit Services Committee are to improve the overall functioning of transit services in the RDCK, provide a platform for engagement between ridership and transit decision makers, and streamline decision making about transit funding and service improvements. The committee includes the following services: Kootenay Lake West Transit, Slocan Valley North Shore Transit, and Castlegar and Area Transit.

The inaugural meeting of the committee will be held Wednesday, October 4.

Recording votes at RDCK Board Meetings

The Board directed staff to prepare a report with the pros, cons and options to support transparency, including the potential to record those votes that are opposed to motions, at RDCK Board Meetings.

Director’s Reports

RDCK Directors provide monthly reports outlining what they have been working on. Click here to read the September reports in the Board minutes (agenda item 4.4, pg. 96).

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.

ACCEPTED MATERIALS LIST

Additional information on the Events

Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) is implementing emergency water restrictions for the Lister Water System, effective Monday, September 11 at 1:00 pm through Tuesday, September 12 at 6:00 pm. The RDCK is requesting all users to limit water use to essential use only.

The emergency water restrictions have been implemented due to well remediation work that requires the well pump to be offline and the water system to be supplied from the reservoir volume alone.

Emergency water restrictions include the following essential uses only:

• Drinking water
• Food preparation
• Minimal laundry/sanitary
• NO irrigation permitted

The RDCK recommends users set aside an additional water supply the night prior to the effective date.

The RDCK appreciate your cooperation in adhering to the above water use. Water users will be notified once restrictions are no longer required, or if an extension is necessary.

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Nelson, BC: Effective immediately, the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) is implementing mandatory Stage 3 Water Conservation Measures for the Lister Water System located in Electoral Area B. Stage 3 Water Conservation Measures have been implemented due to mechanical issues with the well pump. There is a need to reduce water system demand to minimize impact on the well and pump until the planned investigation and remediation on September 11-12. At the time of remediation the well will be offline and the system will be supplied by the reservoir alone, requiring additional water restrictions for essential use only. A reminder notification will be sent to the community prior to the date.

Stage 3 Water Conservation Measures include:

• Watering of lawns is prohibited.
• Watering of gardens, trees and shrubs is ONLY permitted between 6:00am – 10:00am and 8:00pm – 10:00pm.
• Watering using drip irrigation, a watering can, and or hand held hose permitted anytime.

The RDCK appreciates your cooperation in adhering to the above water conservation measures. Stage 3 Water Conservation Measures will remain in effect until further notice. Stricter water conservation measures may be required if demand increases significantly, 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.

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Assent Voting – Fire Protection Service Loan Authorization

Assent voting will be held at the end of the year (December 2, 2023) in defined portions of Electoral Area I for the approval of a 20-year financing term for the purchase of a new fire engine for the Tarrys Fire Department, within the Tarrys and Pass Creek fire protection service area.

An identical referendum will be held in defined portions of Electoral Area H, I and the entire Village of Slocan for the approval of a 20-year financing term for the purchase of a new fire engine for the Winlaw Fire Department, within the Slocan Valley fire protection service area.

Both fire engines will reach the end of their frontline service in 2025.

In the past the RDCK has used a combination of short term financing (which does not need voter consent) and capital reserves to purchase fire engines. However, due to inflation, a new fire engine is anticipated to cost up to $750,000. Therefore, the RDCK is recommending long-term financing over 20 years to reduce the burden on the tax payer. If residents were to vote against long-term financing, the service will need to purchase new fire engines under short-term financing.

For more information:

www.rdck.ca/Tarrysfireengine

www.rdck.ca/SVfireengine

Curbside Collection Services in Electoral Areas

Based off the results of the Phase 2 Electoral Area Curbside Collection Consultation on the RDCK engagement website and staff recommendations, the Board direct staff to prepare a service establishment bylaw for curbside collection services in portions of Electoral Areas F, H, and J. The proposed curbside collection services include bi-weekly garbage, bi-weekly recycling, and weekly food waste collection. 3,348 residents in defined portions of Electoral Areas F, H, and J have been identified as possible communities to include in a new service area boundary. Any new service establishment bylaw would need to receive voter approval by means of assent voting.

Land transfer of Arrow Creek Reservoir

Located within the Town of Creston, the Arrow Creek reservoir has been transferred from the RDCK to the Town of Creston for the purchase price of $1.00. The Board provided its approval in principle for the property that once served as an open reservoir for the Arrow Creek water system, but was decommissioned in 2018. It was converted into a wetland and is now a conservation property and a public greenspace for the Town of Creston.

Neighbourhood Emergency Preparedness Program

The Board approves emergency program staff continue to promote emergency preparedness planning for residents in our communities by utilizing the Neighbourhood Emergency Preparedness Program (NEPP). The NEPP has been developed by the RDCK to help build resiliency in our communities, by empowering our residents to engage their neighbours to support one another in times of emergency. The program provides tools and information to assist residents in becoming more self sufficient, while reducing the effort and cost of response and recovery from emergencies.

RDCK Quarterly Report

The Board received the 2023 Q2 Quarterly Report which details the current projects and initiatives of the RDCK. Please follow the link to the most recent RDCK Quarterly Report.

Director’s Reports

RDCK Directors provide monthly reports outlining what they have been working on. Click here to read the August reports in the Board minutes (agenda item 4.4, pg. 91).

Click here to view a print-friendly PDF version.

Nelson, BC: The next phase of public engagement for the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) climate action plan begins today with the first of 20 climate action open houses across the RDCK. Building on insights gained from the engagement process thus far, the open houses will provide an opportunity to share the outputs from the dialogue circles, webinars and other feedback gathered from residents during this process. The RDCK is committed to creating an inclusive environment where residents feel valued and heard.

“These Open Houses are a crucial step in the process,” said Dan Séguin, RDCK Manager of Community Sustainability. “We are eager to showcase the ideas and suggestions that emerged from the dialogue circles and look forward to continued high levels of interest and participation from residents across the RDCK.”

At the open houses, participants can view information posters, learn about the proposed actions, share thoughts and ideas, connect with RDCK staff and provide input on how we move forward. People are invited to drop in at anytime during the three hours. Find out more – https://engage.rdck.ca/rdck-climate-action

RDCK Climate Action Open Houses Schedule:

Over the last three months the RDCK has spent time engaging with residents on the climate action plan through six informative webinars, our public engagement platform, and the just completed series of dialogue circles. The dialogue circles centered on ensuring our communities are set up for success in a call for unity, action, and community engagement. These dialogues, which gathered participants from diverse backgrounds, revealed essential common themes that underscore the urgency and importance of collaborative community efforts.

Stuart Horn, RDCK’s Chief Administrative Officer, expressed his appreciation, stating, “The dialogue circles have been incredibly valuable, fostering constructive exchanges and a mutual respect among all participants. The willingness of our community members to engage in meaningful conversations has been inspiring, and we are grateful for everyone’s active involvement.”

Some of the themes emerging from the dialogues include:

• Interest to work together – Participants expressed concerns ranging from anxiety about climate change impacts to losing personal freedom. Yet, amid these concerns, there was a desire to actively shape positive change and contribute to a way forward.

• Shared values – Participants expressed the importance of clean water supply, local agriculture, freedom, clean air, protection from natural disasters, and enhanced public transit.

• Adapting to our changing climate – While participants acknowledged the reality of a changing climate, some expressed that the underlying reasons require further investigation and discussion. However, a shared foundation of common ground emerged around the concept of adaptation as a crucial focal point for immediate and collective action.

• Unique rural perspective – Participants emphasized the heightened sense of environmental consciousness and sustainability that comes with living rurally. The dialogues explored ways to amplify this awareness and channel it into meaningful actions.

• Clear communication for inclusive action – Participants stressed the need for simpler language, definitions, and terminology, ensuring accessibility for all.

For more information and background on climate action go to www.rdck.ca/climateaction.

Together, let’s work together to create a strong and confident future for our communities!

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Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) has issued a Boil Water Notice for users on the West Robson Water System. The system is located on Broadwater Road in the community of West Robson on the western border of Robson-Raspberry, within RDCK Electoral Area J. West Robson is downstream of the Hugh Keenlyside Dam on the Columbia River.

The Boil Water Notice has been issued as a precautionary measure due to the depressurization of the water main during emergency repairs.

The RDCK and Interior Health recommend that all customers drink boiled water or a safe alternative until further notice. Water intended for drinking, washing fruits and 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.

Owners of all public facilities must post a Boil Water Notice 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 the Boil Water Notice.

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 Boil Water Notice.

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.

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West Transit Services Committee Bylaw

The Board received a draft bylaw to establish a West Transit Services Committee to provide an effective form of governance over public transit. Services governed by the proposed committee would be Kootenay Lake West Transit, Slocan Valley North Shore Transit, and Castlegar and Area Transit. The intent of the governance changes  would be to  improve the overall functioning of transit services in the RDCK, provide a platform for engagement between ridership and transit decision makers, and streamline decision making about transit funding and service improvements. Directors will provide comments to staff by the August Board meeting and consider adopting the bylaw at the September Board meeting.

New user fees and rental fees for RDCK Community Services

The Board approved a 7% 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 5, 2023. The increase is based upon the March 2023 British Columbia cost of Living Index increase of 7% in 2022. 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 (pg. 96) for the new fees and charges for admissions.

State of climate action framework

The 2022 State of Climate Action (SOCA) Report has been completed and is ready for distribution. The annual report tracks progress on regional climate action objectives and targets, evaluates and improves climate action initiatives and efforts, maintains public transparency and demonstrates climate action leadership. To read the annual report and previous years, click here.

The RDCK Climate Action public engagement process is moving forward with multiple opportunities for residents to get involved and provide feedback. It includes a public engagement platform, in-person dialogue circles, and 20 community open houses across the entire RDCK starting at the end of August. Click here for the complete schedule.

Kaslo and Electoral Area D First Responder Service

The Board authorize staff to prepare a service establishment bylaw for a Medical First Responder Service within a defined portion of Electoral Area D. The service will provide a more robust response and immediate life saving interventions on scene while awaiting additional medical resources or transport. The establishment of the bylaw will be subject to staff conducting a public consultation process and voter approval by means of Alternative Approval Process.

West Creston Fire Protection Area Service Establishment

The Board direct staff to prepare an amendment bylaw for West Creston Fire Protection Area Service Establishment Bylaw to increase the maximum amount of money that may be requisitioned annually to $393,831 or $2.5519/$1,000 of net taxable value of land. Last month the Board directed staff to prepare a loan authorization bylaw for the construction of a fire hall in West Creston, as well as the replacement of a frontline water tender and fire engine. After public consultation, voter approval will be undertaken by means of referendum.

Wildfire Development Permit Area Project Implementation

The Board direct staff to draft bylaw amendments to pursue a partial implementation of Wildfire Development Permit Areas. A Wildfire Development Permit Area would require applicable new developments within an Official Community Plan’s area to meet FireSmart principles. The Director led partial implementation will allow gradual phasing in of FireSmart requirements for new developments and potentially, a lower volume of applications, making it easier for staff to deal with the new requirements.

Director’s Reports

RDCK Directors provide monthly reports outlining what they have been working on. Click here to read the July reports in the Board minutes (agenda item 4.4, pg. 111).

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