Winlaw Recycling Depot Closed – September 13, 2023

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:
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.
Click here to view a print-friendly PDF verison.
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:
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:
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:
|
CLIMATE ACTION OPEN HOUSES |
||
|
August 24 |
4:00 pm – 7:00 pm |
Slocan Park Community Hall, 3036 BC 6, Slocan Park (Area H) |
|
August 28 |
4:00 pm – 7:00 pm |
Hills Community Fire Hall, 4480 Highway 6, Hills (Area H) |
|
August 29 |
5:00 pm – 8:00 pm |
Creston Recreation Centre, 312 19th Ave N, Creston (Creston, Areas B & C) |
|
August 30 |
4:00 pm – 7:00 pm |
Salmo Youth & Community Centre (Gym), 206 7th St, Salmo (Area G & Salmo) |
|
September 5 |
4:00 pm – 7:00 pm |
Wynndel Hall (Upper Hall), 5127 Wynndel Rd, Wynndel (Area A) |
|
September 6 |
4:00 pm – 7:00 pm |
Bosun Hall, 710 Bellevue St, New Denver (Area H) |
|
September 7 |
4:00 pm – 7:00 pm |
Balfour Hall, Charles Street, Balfour (Area E) |
|
September 8 |
4:00 pm – 7:00 pm |
Lardeau Valley Community Club, 13429 BC-31, Meadow Creek (Area D) |
|
September 11 |
4:00 pm – 7:00 pm |
Crawford Bay Hall, 16230 Wadds Rd, Crawford Bay (Area A) |
|
September 12 |
4:00 pm – 7:00 pm |
Yahk Community Hall, 8790 Railway Ave, Yahk (Area B) |
|
September 18 |
4:00 pm – 7:00 pm |
Brilliant Cultural Centre, 1876 Brilliant Rd, Castlegar (Area I) |
|
October 2 |
4:00 pm – 7:00 pm |
Castlegar & District Recreation Centre (Selkirk Room), 2101 6th Ave, Castlegar (Castlegar & Area I) |
|
October 3 |
4:00 pm – 7:00 pm |
Kaslo Legion, 403 Fifth St, Kaslo (Kaslo & Area D) |
|
October 10 |
4:00 pm – 7:00 pm |
Nakusp & District Community Complex (Auditorium), 200 8th Ave NW, Nakusp (Nakusp & Area K) |
|
October 11 |
4:00 pm – 7:00 pm |
Robson Hall, 3067 Waldie Rd, Robson (Area J) |
|
October 16 |
4:00 pm – 7:00 pm |
Taghum Hall, 5915 Taghum Hall Rd, Nelson (Area E) |
|
October 17 |
4:00 pm – 7:00 pm |
North Shore Hall – 675 Whitemore Rd, Nelson (Nelson and Area F) |
|
October 23 |
4:00 pm – 7:00 pm |
Burton Hall, 125 Burton Main Rd (Area K) |
|
October 24 |
4:00 pm – 7:00 pm |
Appledale Hall, Appledale Park Rd, Central Kootenay (Area H) |
|
October 25 |
4:00 pm – 7:00 pm |
Procter Hall, 262 2nd St, Procter (Area E) |
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:
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!
Click here to view a print-friendly PDF version.
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.
Click here to view a print-friendly PDF version.
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).
Click here to view a print-friendly PDF version.
Nelson, BC: Severe drought levels and unprecedented conditions are being experienced not only in the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK), but across the entire Province of BC. In BC, drought levels are measured on a 0-to-5 scale and the RDCK is at level 4. This means adverse impacts to socio-economic or ecosystem values are likely. As of July 20, two-thirds of BC`s water basins are a drought level 4 or 5. Follow the links for more information on:
Below average snowpack in addition to low spring and summer precipitation has resulted in less water in our lakes, rivers, streams and reservoirs. Lower streamflows can cause warmer river temperatures, affecting fish and other aquatic life, as well as have an impact on groundwater levels.
Drought also means the land is susceptible to wildfire. Currently the fire danger rating in our region varies between moderate, high and extreme. Extreme fire danger means extremely dry forest fuels and the fire risk is serious. New fires can start easily, spread rapidly, and challenge fire suppression efforts.
Unfortunately, there is no relief in sight, as Environment Canada is forecasting hot and dry weather for the coming weeks. Click here for the latest forecast from Environment Canada.
What can you do to conserve water? Shorter showers, turn off the tap when brushing your teeth, water your lawn sparingly if at all or collect and reuse water for outdoor plants. For more information on how best to conserve water in your home or business, click here.
Currently all RDCK water systems are at stage 2 water conservation measures. 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.
Preparedness is the key to dealing with any type of potential emergency, so all residents are encouraged to build an emergency kit and grab-and-go bag to be self-reliant for up to 72 hours. These kits include everything from flashlight and batteries, to a first aid kit, to two litres of water per person per day. Click here for more information on how to build an emergency kit and grab-and-go bag.
Click here to view a print-friendly PDF verison.
For more information visit www.electrorecycle.ca

Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) is pleased to announce a redesigned climate action engagement process based on feedback we received from the community. The postponement of the public engagement meetings has allowed the RDCK time to reconvene and reconsider how best to work with residents to address concerns and provide information about RDCK Climate Actions.
The RDCK community has emphasized the need for transparency and open communication. We have heard you. We have streamlined the ways the public can get involved, both in-person and online, to provide feedback and influence the proposed Climate Action Plan. From July to October, the mix of in-person and online engagements are an opportunity for residents to review all the information and actions, provide feedback, and interact with RDCK staff on how best to strengthen community resilience throughout the RDCK.
RDCK Climate Actions is a proposed four-year guidance plan, focused on identifying supports that reflect the diverse needs of RDCK residents. We value your input and want to ensure everyone has a chance to participate. There is opportunity for all residents to join the conversation. We are reviewing all feedback, compiling it, and will report it to the community and RDCK Board. Your feedback will be presented to the Board before the plan is considered for adoption.
HOW CAN YOU BE INVOLVED?
1. RDCK Website (online) – Check out the RDCK climate action webpage or RDCK Events Calendar regularly and follow RDCK’s Facebook and Twitter pages for the latest updates and for more information on the plan, including frequently asked questions. Familiarize yourself with the Draft RDCK Climate Actions and the accompanying Draft Climate Action Workbook. If you prefer a printed copy, email us with your address and we will mail them to you.
2. Webinars (online) – Join RDCK staff to discuss the pathway actions currently underway and actions proposed for the future. These webinars will be recorded and available as reference on the specific pathways. You can register by clicking on the links below or through our website www.rdck.ca/climateaction:
| REGISTER for Resource Recovery & Land Use | Monday, July 10 | 1:30 pm – 2:30 pm |
| REGISTER for Buildings & Energy | Tuesday, July 11 | 2:30 pm – 3:30 pm |
| REGISTER for Transportation | Thursday, July 13 | 10:30 am – 11:30 am |
| REGISTER for Food & Agriculture & Wildfire | Monday, July 17 | 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm |
| REGISTER for Water | Wednesday, July 19 | 11:00 am – 12:00 pm |
| REGISTER for Emergency, Floods & Geohazards | Monday, July 24 | 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm |
3. Online Public Engagement Platform (online) – Join the conversation online. Stay tuned to https://engage.rdck.ca/ – we will be launching the Climate Action project page on our online public engagement platform on July 14.
4. Dialogue Circles (in person) – We are hosting dialogue circles across the region to learn about your experience in the RDCK and to understand your questions and concerns. We will be engaging community members with diverse view points in the next few weeks and seeking to learn more about the various issues or concerns being faced by communities.
5. Open Houses (in person) – Beginning at the end of August and running through October there will be opportunity for all residents to join the conversation with meetings across all 11 Electoral Areas and nine municipalities.
| CLIMATE ACTION OPEN HOUSES | ||
| August 24 | 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm | Slocan Park Community Hall, 2036 BC 6, Slocan Park (Area H) |
| August 28 | 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm | Hills Community Fire Hall, 4480 Highway 6, Hills (Area H) |
| August 29 | 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm | Creston Recreation Centre, 312 19th Ave N, Creston (Creston, Areas B & C) |
| August 30 | 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm | Salmo Youth & Community Centre (Gym), 206 7th St, Salmo (Area G & Salmo) |
| September 5 | 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm | Wynndel Hall (Upper Hall), 5127 Wynndel Rd, Wynndel (Area A) |
| September 6 | 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm | Bosun Hall, 710 Bellevue St, New Denver (Area H) |
| September 7 | 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm | Balfour Hall, 602 Queens Bay Rd, Balfour (Area E) |
| September 8 | 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm | Lardeau Valley Community Club, 13429 BC-31, Meadow Creek (Area D) |
| September 11 | 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm | Crawford Bay Hall, 16230 Wadds Rd, Crawford Bay (Area A) |
| September 12 | 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm | Yahk Community Hall, 8790 Railway Ave, Yahk (Area B) |
| September 18 | 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm | Brilliant Cultural Centre, 1876 Brilliant Rd, Castlegar (Area I) |
| October 2 | 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm | Castlegar & District Recreation Centre (Selkirk Room), 2101 6th Ave, Castlegar (Castlegar & Area I) |
| October 3 | 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm | Kaslo Legion, 403 Fifth St, Kaslo (Kaslo & Area D) |
| October 10 | 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm | Nakusp & District Community Complex (Auditorium), 200 8th Ave NW, Nakusp (Nakusp & Area K) |
| October 11 | 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm | Robson Hall, 3067 Waldie Rd, Robson (Area J) |
| October 16 | 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm | Taghum Hall, 5915 Taghum Hall Rd, Nelson (Area E) |
| October 17 | 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm | North Shore Hall – 675 Whitemore Rd, Nelson (Nelson and Area F) |
| October 23 | 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm | Burton Hall, 125 Burton Main Rd (Area K) |
| October 24 | 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm | Appledale Hall, Appledale Park Rd, Central Kootenay (Area H) |
| October 25 | 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm | Procter Hall, 246 3rd Ave, Procter (Area E) |
6. Subject meetings (in person) – In the fall, we are also planning meetings focussed on some of the key actions pathways including transportation, land use, food and agriculture, and water. The intent is to have panels with community representatives, local subject experts, non-profit organizations, and interested individuals. More details to come.
Together, let’s make a positive impact in our region and create a resilient future for the RDCK community.
For more information and background on climate action go to www.rdck.ca/climateaction.
Nelson, BC: In response to concerns raised by Electoral Area H residents about the increasingly negative community impacts of large music events held in Electoral Area H in the summer months, the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) Bylaw Enforcement Team will be stepping up enforcement of the Noise Control Bylaw and the Special Events Permit Bylaw in Electoral Area H this summer.
In addition to the requirements imposed by the Noise Control Bylaw any large music event being held within Electoral Area H with more than 200 people in attendance, must apply for a Special Events Permit, which can be obtained by contacting the RDCK.
Many Electoral Area H residents have reached out to the RDCK with concerns over scheduled live events taking place within their neighbourhoods over the next few months. The RDCK Bylaw Enforcement Team and the local detachment of the RCMP are coordinating a response to any issues and enforcement activities are being planned. Other agencies that may have regulatory or public safety interests in a mass gathering event, such as Technical Safety BC, the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure and the Office of the Fire Commissioner, Ministry of Forests are being consulted on the matter.
“We have heard from a number of concerned residents throughout Electoral Area H and we are taking each of these inquiries seriously,” said Jordan Dupuis, RDCK Supervisor, Bylaw Enforcement Team. “Organizers of events are responsible to educate themselves with the Noise Control Bylaw and the Special Events Permit Bylaw. Event organizers should expect to be contacted by RDCK staff prior to their event to be advised of the bylaw requirements. The RDCK, in cooperation with the RCMP, may enforce the bylaws if compliance does not occur.”
When violations of either bylaw occur, fines may be applied. Residents should note that there is no applicable statutory authority that would allow for the RDCK or RCMP to prevent an event in advance of that event occurring. Concurrent with the prosecution the RDCK could request an injunction to prevent a future event at the site in question.
If you wish to report a violation of the Noise Control Bylaw due to a mass gathering after regular business hours, please contact the RCMP. Residents impacted by large events who wish to submit witness statements to be used by the RDCK in bylaw prosecution can do so via this email address: cdaoust@rdck.bc.ca.
Click here to view a print-friendly PDF version.
Electoral Area F Local Conservation Fund – Alternative Approval Process
The Board directed staff to proceed with obtaining approval of the electors in Electoral Area F for the adoption of the Electoral Area F Local Conservation Fund Service Establishment Amendment. The Local Conservation Fund provides funding for projects that benefit conservation in the rural areas around Kootenay Lake and the Slocan Valley. 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. If approval of the electors is obtained, Electoral Area F will be a full participant in the Local Conservation Fund Service at a cost of $15 per parcel of land to be collected annually. Click here to learn more about the RDCK Local Conservation Fund.
RDCK Climate Actions
The Board approved additional resources to support communication and engagement related to RDCK Climate Actions. These funds will go towards putting on events, advertising, consultant support and hiring a one-year contract position to support the communication and engagement process. As well, the RDCK is launching an online public engagement platform to create a hub to share ideas, provide feedback and ask questions on projects and initiatives within the RDCK.
The community open houses will be re-scheduled for this fall from which staff will collate all information and learning. Residents are encouraged to continue to provide their feedback over the summer to climateaction@rdck.bc.ca. The Board allocated up to $121,700 for this initiative.
For more information about the RDCK Climate Action Plan go to www.rdck.ca/climateaction.
Regional Accessibility Advisory Committee
The Board received an initial draft of the Regional Accessibility Advisory Committee (RAAC) bylaw for discussion and input from municipalities within the RDCK.
In June 2021, the Accessible British Columbia Act was enacted with the purpose of establishing a framework for government and organizations to work with people with disabilities and the broader community to identify, remove and prevent barriers to accessibility. Local governments must establish a committee, create a plan and have a mechanism for providing feedback. The RAAC 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.
Emergency Operations Centre support for Lower Kootenay Band
The Board directed staff to draft a service agreement to support the Lower Kootenay Band residents during an active emergency by providing Emergency Operations support. The type of support requested by the Lower Kootenay Ban includes helping with a declaration of a State of Local Emergency and issuing, maintaining, and rescinding Evacuation Alerts and Orders.
Moratorium extended for acquisition of new RDCK water systems
The Board extended the moratorium on the acquisition of water and wastewater systems until June 30, 2024. As well, the Board direct staff to present updated plans, policies and acceptance matrices as required, to the Water Services Committee on or before the end of June 2024 with the intent to lift the moratorium at that time.
Since August 2011, the RDCK suspended intake of acquisitions from new water and wastewater systems due to the significant demands placed on staff. However, over the years staffing levels have increased and the water group has been restructured to handle a manageable growth rate in the future.
West Kootenay Transit fare free days
West Kootenay Transit free days were approved by the Board and include; Local, Provincial and Federal election days, Earth Day, Go by Bike Week, Clean Air Day and Seniors Day. No fees will be collected for any riders on these days. As well, the Board direct staff to introduce an in-lieu option on the closest day to a West Kootenay Transit free day, for areas that do not have the service on that day.
Growing Communities Fund Allocation
The Board approve the allocation of $3,925,000 from the Growing Communities Funds. This allocation of funds will enable each service to reduce taxation directly, or indirectly by reducing borrowing, reducing the use of reserve funds of freeing up other grants for other purposes.
The Provincial Government’s Growing Communities Fund provides a one-time total of $1 billion in grants distributed among all of BC’s local governments. The grants support the delivery of infrastructure projects necessary to enable community growth.
|
Service |
Description |
|
Amount |
|
S231 |
Recreation Commission No.8 |
150,000 |
|
|
S209 |
Recreation Facility-Area A (Riondel) |
150,000 |
|
|
S291 |
Fire Response – West Creston |
150,000 |
|
|
S101 |
Rural Administration |
25,000 |
|
|
S156 |
Emergency Communications 911 |
125,000 |
|
|
S129 |
Fire Protection-Areas A and C (Wynndel, Lakeview) |
92,034 |
|
|
S130 |
Fire Protection-Area B (Canyon Lister) |
105,584 |
|
|
S134 |
Fire Protection-Area F (North Shore) |
144,982 |
|
|
S136 |
Fire Protection-Area G (Ymir) |
131,206 |
|
|
S137 |
Fire Protection-Area I (Tarrys, Pass Creek) |
126,745 |
|
|
S141 |
Fire Protection-Area E (Balfour, Harrop) |
230,235 |
|
|
S142 |
Fire Protection-Areas H and I (Slocan Valley) |
180,330 |
|
|
S145 |
Fire Protection-Area J (Ootischenia) |
73,885 |
|
|
A117 |
Recycling Program – Central Subregion |
142,875 |
|
|
A120 |
Organics Program – Central Subregion |
30,402 |
|
|
A120 |
Organics Program – West Subregion |
38,693 |
|
|
S186 |
Refuse Disposal (East Subregion) |
115,399 |
|
|
S187 |
Refuse Disposal (Central Subregion) |
100,849 |
|
|
S188 |
Refuse Disposal (West Subregion) |
336,782 |
|
|
S222 |
Arena (Castlegar Complex)-Castlegar and Areas I and J |
203,000 |
|
|
S227 |
Aquatic Centre-Castlegar and Areas J and I |
38,668 |
|
|
S224 |
Recreation Facility-Creston and Areas B, C and Area A |
241,664 |
|
|
S226 |
Recreation Facility-Nelson and Areas F and Defined E |
241,668 |
|
|
S202 |
Regional Parks-Nelson, Salmo and Areas E, F and G |
35,235 |
|
|
S221 |
Community Facility Recreation & Parks-Kaslo and Area D |
94,211 |
|
|
S205 |
Regional Parks-Area A |
25,554 |
|
|
S241 |
Water Utility-Area A (Riondel) |
17,191 |
|
|
S243 |
Water Utility-Area B (Lister) |
33,892 |
|
|
S248 |
Water Utility-Area F (Duhamel Creek) |
84,624 |
|
|
S250 |
Water Utility-Area B (Erickson) |
90,811 |
|
|
S252 |
Water Utility-Area K (Burton) |
72,715 |
|
|
S253 |
Water Utility-Area K (Edgewood) |
10,754 |
|
|
S254 |
Water Utility-Area K (Fauquier) |
55,931 |
|
|
S255 |
Water Utility-Area E (Balfour) |
95,469 |
|
|
S256 |
Water Utility-Area J (West Robson) |
83,637 |
|
|
S259 |
Water Utility-Area D (Woodbury) |
49,976 |
|
|
Totals – $ |
3,925,000 |
Assent Vote – Firefighting equipment
The Board direct staff to prepare a loan authorization bylaw for five RDCK fire departments for critical life-saving equipment or infrastructure. After public consultation, voter approval will be undertaken by means of referendum.
West Creston Fire Response (Area C) – Construct fire hall and replace frontline water tender and fire engine. Prepare a loan authorization bylaw in the amount of $2,129,000.
Balfour Harrop Fire Department (Area E) – Replace frontline engine. Prepare loan authorization bylaw in the amount of $750,000.
North Shore Fire Department (Area F) – Replace frontline engine. Prepare loan authorization bylaw in the amount of $750,000.
Tarrys Fire Department (Area I) – Replace frontline engine. Prepare loan authorization bylaw in the amount of $750,000.
Winlaw Fire Department (Area H) – Replace frontline engine. Prepare loan authorization bylaw in the amount of $750,000.
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 (agenda item 4.4, pg. 200).
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Nelson, BC: The upgrades to the arena floor at the Castlegar and District Community Complex is two months ahead of schedule. Originally planned to be under repair until October 15, the new completion date for the arena floor project at the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) facility is now August 9.
“The RDCK is very pleased with the progress made by Reward Construction Ltd., with support from RJC Engineering,” said Craig Stanley, RDCK Regional Manager, Operations and Asset Management. “With this type of project there are a number of potential issues or hidden hazards that could show up, but fortunately we were able to avoid all of them. This is the best outcome we could expect, which will allow us to have a normal start to the fall season.”
Ice users were informed of the news at our Ice Users Meeting held on June 15. With the completion of the work set for August 9, the ice is expected to be installed by the end of August.
“This is fabulous news, especially for all the ice users,” said Sue Heaton-Sherstobitoff, Chair of the Castlegar and District Recreation Commission. “When you start a project of this magnitude you hope that it is completed on time and on budget – so you can imagine the Commissioners reaction when we were told it would be finished two months ahead of schedule. So, a big thank you to Reward Construction and RDCK staff for completing the project in record time.”
Crews from Reward Construction Ltd. have been able to install the underfloor heating, insulation, cooling lines, rebar and wire mesh in preparation for pouring the concrete well ahead of schedule. The cooling floor concrete pour is scheduled for June 20. There will be a small public access area available at 8:00 am to view the site during the installation and finishing of the concrete.
Originally installed in 1976, the Castlegar and District Community Complex arena floor has outlived its intended life span of 35-40 years. The total budget for the project is $1.644 million.
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