Category: Uncategorized

Road Rescue Service Expansion

Effective immediately, the RDCK volunteer fire departments in Beasley (Electoral Area F), Ootischenia (Electoral Area J), and Robson (Electoral Area J) will now provide auto extrication service. Each department has the necessary tools, certified personnel, and demonstrated capability to safely conduct auto extrication within its own protection area. Overall, this will strengthen regional resilience by ensuring each department can deliver essential services within its own area, as well as improve response time and reduce out of area deployments from neighbouring departments.

Local Conservation Fund

The Board approved $139,972 in grant funds for the Local Conservation Fund to be spread among nine different projects. The Local Conservation Fund is funded through a $15 parcel tax and provides grants to support local conservation efforts in Electoral Areas A, D, E, F, and H focused on the conservation of water and aquatic systems, as well as wildlife and habitat. Here are the nine projects:

PROJECT	PROPONENT	AMOUNT
Grizzly Bear Coexistence Solutions	Lardeau Valley Opportunity LINKS	$15,000
Bat Roost Enhancement and Activity Monitoring in the West Kootenays	Wildlife Conservation Society Canada	$24,955
Kootenay Nature for Neighbourhoods Program	Central Kootenay Invasive Species Society	$14,624
Harrop Wetlands Project	Friends of Kootenay Lake Stewardship Society	$13,000
Slocan Valley Pollinator Highway Project: Phase 1 Year 3	Elk Root Conservation Farm Society	$18,393
Construction and Conservation of Artificial Bat Roosts in the West Kootenays	Okanagan Nation Alliance	$15,000
Water Monitoring for Climate Resilience in the RDCK	Living Lakes Canada	$15,000
Advancing Wetland Stewardship & Restoration in the Kootenays	BC Wildlife Federation	$14,000
Planning for the Future: Watershed Security in a Changing Climate	West Kootenay Watershed Collaborative Society	$10,000

Ootischenia Landfill Upgrades

The Board approved the preferred conceptual layout for upgrading the Ootischenia Landfill. Considered one of the RDCK’s primary regional waste management and disposal facilities, the potential to expand the facility would help to alleviate traffic congestion, long customer wait times, improper disposal of waste, and a reduced desire to properly divert recyclable materials. The approved conceptual layout includes upgrades to the transfer area, the addition of a second scale, a separate entrance for recycling traffic, plus a larger tipping area with full size roll off bins which will provide better traffic flow, increased safety, scalability, and capacity to accommodate future expansion.

Ymir Transfer Station and Satellite Recycling Depot Closure

The Board approved the permanent closure of the Ymir Transfer Station and Satellite Recycling Depot effective December 31, 2026. Based on recommendations from the 2024 System Efficiency Study and staff studying traffic data and providing operational feedback, the facility provides only limited waste management options, is open just one day a week, and the cost to operate the facility is double what the average annual tipping fee revenue is, which means the difference is made up through taxation. Further, the site’s bin wall needs repairs or replacement, which could cost up to $200,000.  

Residents in Electoral Area G have a comparable distance to waste management facilities as other rural residents across the RDCK, and better access than many rural areas in the RDCK based on the higher than average operating hours at the nearest facilities. Further discussion about the closure will occur at the upcoming Joint Resource Recovery Committee meeting in March, after the Board directed an extension to the closure to the end of the year.

HomeSave Program

The RDCK signed a memorandum of understanding with the City of Nelson for the purpose of establishing roles, responsibilities, and governance for the delivery of the HomeSave Program. Formerly known as the Regional Energy Efficiency Program (REEP), the HomeSave Program is a regionally focused residential energy efficiency initiative in the RDCK that supports homeowners across the region in reducing energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and household energy costs through retrofits, incentives, and technical guidance. The new program is expected to roll out the first week of March.

New Arena & Indoor Walking Track Development Procurement – Castlegar

The Board approved entering into a professional services agreement with HCMA Architecture and Design for $180,000 to develop an owner’s statement of requirements for the design/build of a new arena with an indoor walking track in Castlegar. The development of a new arena and indoor walking track was identified as a public priority through the Reimagining Recreation Engagement Project and will need elector assent (referendum for the City of Castlegar and Electoral Area J) to continue beyond the design phase. The goal is to select a preferred proponent to build the new facility for $15,000,000 of maximum funding from the RDCK before the voter assent is to be held during the October 2026 municipal and RDCK elections.

RDCK Quarterly Report

The RDCK Quarterly Report provides a condensed summary of active projects and initiatives within the RDCK. The report includes a clear and concise understanding of each project and its connection to the Board’s strategic priorities. Click here to view the latest quarterly report, including the most recently completed projects.

Click here to view the quarterly report page on the RDCK website.

Director’s Reports

RDCK Directors provide monthly reports outlining what they have been working on. Click here to read the February reports in the Board minutes.  

For information on how to join each session online, go to the specific event in our meetings calendar. Click here for the RDCK meetings page. Zoom information will be provided closer to each public information session.

The RDCK and Village of Salmo are reviewing how we manage development near flood and steep creek hazard areas and updating our outdated policies and regulations.

Separately, the RDCK is developing a risk tolerance policy to strengthen risk-informed land use decisions and enhance community resilience in areas exposed to geohazards, such as floods, landslides, and steep creek hazards (debris flows and debris floods).

If you live in or near a flood, steep creek or landslide hazard area, these updates could influence how property can be developed or improved in the future. Join our project team for a live webinar to get the facts and ask your questions.

When: Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at 6:30PM (PST)

Where: Online via Zoom

Zoom link – Join from Zoom Workplace app – Zoom

Meeting ID: 916 2675 8729

Passcode: 293819

OR

Dial by your location

• +1 778 907 2071 Canada
• 833 958 1164 Canada Toll-free
• 855 703 8985 Canada Toll-free
• 833 955 1088 Canada Toll-free

Meeting ID: 916 2675 8729

Passcode: 293819

https://engage.rdck.ca/projects/floodplain-management-bylaw-update/ (Public Webinar #1)

Visit the RDCK engage page https://engage.rdck.ca/   to find out more about the Flood Plain Management Bylaw Update and Risk Tolerance Policy Projects.

2026-2030 Draft Financial Plan

The Board held a special budget meeting on Friday, January 23, to review the current draft of this year’s financial plan. The draft is showing an average taxation increase of 8.7%, although actual changes vary widely based on property location. For example, the RDCK portion of Village of Slocan taxes are projected to be a 1.8% increase, while Electoral Area H is showing a 12% increase. The primary driver of the overall average increase is a $4 million increase in contribution to reserves to fund near term capital asset projects. Further changes to the Financial Plan are expected as there are ongoing budget reviews and discussions with Directors, staff, and at the committee level, as well as public engagement budget meetings throughout the region.

The budget process will conclude at the March 19 Open Board Meeting where Directors will have a final opportunity to discuss, modify, and consider adoption of the budget.

Click here to view the Draft 2026-2030 Financial Plan.

Re-designed quarterly report

The RDCK released its re-designed quarterly report. This report, organized by department, provides a condensed summary of active projects and initiatives within the RDCK. The new format provides a clear and concise understanding of each project and its connection to the Board’s strategic priorities.

Click here to view the latest quarterly report.

Click here to view the recently completed projects on the latest quarterly report.

Click here to view the quarterly report page on the RDCK website.

Operational hours change at six resource recovery facilities

Based on recommendations from the 2024 System Efficiency Study and staff studying traffic data and providing operational feedback, the Board approved the following adjustments to operating hours for the following transfer stations and recycling depots effective April 1, 2026:

Facility	NEW HOURS – Effective April 1, 2026	PREVIOUS HOURS
Balfour Transfer Stations and Recycling Depot	Year round Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday 9:00 am – 3:00 pm	Summer (May 1 to September 30) Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday 9:00 am – 4:00 pm   Winter (October 1 – April 30) Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
Boswell Transfer Station and Recycling Depot	Year Round Saturday 10:00 am to 2:00 pm	Year Round Wednesday and Saturday 11:00 am to 3:00 pm
Central Transfer Station (Salmo)	Year round Wednesday and Saturday 10:00 am – 2:00 pm	Summer (May 1 – September 30) Wednesday and Saturday 9:00 am – 3:00 pm   Winter (October 1 – April 30) Wednesday and Saturday 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Crawford Bay Transfer Station and Recycling Depot	Summer (April 1 – September 30) Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday 9:00 am – 3:00 pm   Winter (October 1 – March 31) Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday 10:00 am – 3:00 pm	Early March to April 30 Sunday and Tuesday 9:00 am – 3:00 pm   May to Early November Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday 9:00 am – 3:00 pm   Early November to Early March Sunday and Tuesday 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Lakeside Recycling Depot	Summer (April 1 – September 30) Monday to Saturday 8:30 am – 5:00 pm   Winter (October 1 – March 31) Monday to Saturday 8:30 am – 4:30 pm	Year Round Monday to Saturday 8:30 am – 5:30 pm
Kaslo Transfer Station and Recycling Depot	Summer (April 1 – September 30) Tuesday and Friday 9:00 am – 3:00 pm Sunday 9:00 am – 4:00 pm   Winter (October 1 – March 31) Sunday, Tuesday, and Friday 10:00 am – 3:00 pm	Summer (May 1 – September 30) Sunday, Tuesday, and Friday 9:00 am – 3:00 pm   Winter (October 1 – April 30) Sunday, Tuesday, and Friday 10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Click here to read the complete report.

RDCK Accessibility Plan

The Board approved the adoption of the RDCK Accessibility Plan. The RDCK is committed to creating a community where diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility are deeply embedded in everything it does. This plan lays the groundwork for intentional, sustained efforts to ensure every resident can fully and equally take part in community life. Click here to read the plan.

Dangerous and Aggressive Dogs Service

The Board read Bylaw No. 3009, the Regional District of Central Kootenay Dangerous and Aggressive Dog Regulatory Bylaw, a third time by content. The bylaw provides a regulatory framework for contracted Regional District Dog Control Officers and the RCMP to address aggressive dog incidents in Electoral Areas A, B, C, and H. While Electoral Areas A, B, and C would like further analysis prior to moving forward with service establishment, Electoral Area H is proceeding with Bylaw 3066, the Electoral Area H Dangerous and Aggressive Dog Control Establishment Bylaw. The Board read the bylaw for a third time by content, which allows Electoral Area H to go ahead in seeking voter assent. The bylaw and supporting information will now be sent to the Local Government Inspector for statutory approval, which typically takes 6-8 weeks. This could potentially allow for a general polling day as early as May 2026.

The proposed ballot question is:

Electoral Area H Dangerous and Aggressive Dog Control Service Establishment Bylaw No. 3066, 2025 will allow the Regional District to establish a service for the regulation of Dangerous and Aggressive Dogs in Electoral Area H and to establish a maximum annual allowable requisition not to exceed the greater of $ 109,741 or the amount resulting from a rate of $0.077/$1,000 applied to the actual net taxable value of land and improvements in the service area.

Are you in favour of the Regional District adopting Electoral Area H Dangerous and Aggressive Dog Control Service Establishment Bylaw No. 3066, 2025? Yes or No

Director’s Reports

RDCK Directors provide monthly reports outlining what they have been working on. Click here to read the January reports in the Board minutes.  

Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) is moving forward with regulating the disposal of organic waste for the Industrial, Commercial, and Institutional (IC&I) Sector, with a nine-month implementation window in 2026 to allow ample time for the change.

The regulation will initially target larger food-primary operations such as grocery stores, busy restaurants, and commercial food manufacturers in the communities of Creston, Castlegar, Salmo, and Nelson, where services exist. Commercial, non-residential waste from these communities that arrives at the Creston Landfill, Ootischenia Landfill, Central Transfer Station, and Grohman Narrows Transfer Station will eventually be required to separate compostable organic waste from landfilled waste.

“Our Board wants to encourage organic waste diversion by supporting the private sector with rebates and reduced tipping fees, so in combination with that, we recognize that regulation is the most effective tool the Regional District has at getting the levels of participation needed to meet our waste diversion goals,” said Aimee Watson, RDCK Board Chair.

It is estimated that up to 3,900 tonnes of compostable organic waste can be kept out of our regional landfills annually if the IC&I sector fully participates in organics diversion. The IC&I sector is responsible for an estimated 45% of landfilled waste in our region. Of this material, 35% is estimated to be compostable organics, making it the RDCK’s largest single-stream waste diversion potential.

Whenever possible, food and beverage related operations in the affected communities will be contacted by email and direct mail, with additional advertisements in the local newspapers and on social media throughout 2026 to build awareness of these changes. Information events held in conjunction with stakeholder groups will be held in the early spring and summer.

The new regulation was included in the Resource Recovery Facilities Regulatory Bylaw update for 2026, as approved by the RDCK Board of Directors. Definitions were added to the Bylaw to include compostable organic waste originating from Industrial, Commercial, and Institutional sources as a type of “Recyclable Material”.

Recyclable Materials are items that can be easily separated from mixed waste (garbage) and diverted to cost-effective recycling solutions. As per the Bylaw, when more than 10% of a load contains recyclable materials and is landfilled, the entire load is subject to a variable tipping fee set at double the price of mixed waste ($354.50/tonne). This currently occurs with items like corrugated cardboard and has been an effective tool for keeping this material out of our landfills.

A subsidized tipping fee of $55/tonne for separated organic waste originating from the IC&I sector is being maintained in 2026. This makes commercial organic waste disposal significantly less expensive than mixed waste, which is currently charged at $177.25/tonne.

Affected businesses and institutions will have the majority of 2026 to make the necessary changes to their operations. By September 2026, the RDCK will begin issuing warnings before applying the variable tipping fee if loads contain more than 10% organic waste. Selective enforcement may begin earlier targeting larger potential generators, such as grocery stores.

Keeping organic waste out of our region’s landfills is a strategic priority of the RDCK and a key part of the Resource Recovery Plan. RDCK landfills have finite lifespans, and this material takes up much needed space. When landfilled, organic waste releases large amounts of methane as it rots without oxygen, making it a source of potent greenhouse gases that significantly contribute to Canada’s emissions.

Now that the RDCK has commercial composting facilities to process organic waste and turn it into compost – a valuable soil amendment, implementing regulation that encourages the largest generators of organic waste in the IC&I sector to participate makes a lot more sense than putting it in our landfills.

“We have built the infrastructure to accept and process organic waste separately from garbage, noting that organic waste doesn’t belong in the landfill,” said Watson. “We are making good quality compost from it, which helps with food production, the circular economy, and most importantly, composting organics into soil is an incredible carbon capture tool. Further, reducing the volume of our landfills enables sustainable operations for future generations while reducing methane emissions that contribute to climate change. The board is keen to support this shift through incentives with the regulations to support improved resource recovery for all residents.”

To further support the IC&I sector in making changes to their waste management systems, the RDCK is offering a limited number of $400 rebates for businesses for the purchase of materials and supplies related to organics recycling. Rebates are available to businesses in and around Castlegar, Creston, Nelson, and Salmo, and will be issued on a first come, first served basis. Additionally, waste separation signage and other resources are available for free online to download and print.

Resource Recovery Staff are available to provide implementation guidance, process rebates, and answer questions. Impacted operations are encouraged to be in touch via the RDCK’s engagement platform: engage.rdck.ca; or contact the Organics Team directly: organics@rdck.ca.

Pleased by advised that the Marblehead Transfer Station will be operating at limited capacity for Mixed Waste and is only accepting small residential sized loads.

Due to reduced daylight, temporary operating hours will be in place until January 31, 2026 for the following sites:

• Lakeside Recycling Depot – closing at 4:00 pm
• Creston Helen St Recycling Depot – closing at 4:00 pm
• Crescent Valley Recycling Depot – 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

The RDCK would like to thank everyone that purchased compost in 2025 from the RDCK. A successful first-time compost sale period distributed over 600 cubic meters to residents and farms throughout the RDCK between August and December.  A small amount of compost will be available in early 2026 at the Central Transfer Station, with another larger sale event in the fall of 2026.

“Sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on the RDCK’s dirt!”

Nelson, BC:  Effective January 2, 2026, the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) will accept grant applications for the Columbia Basin Trust (the Trust) Resident Directed Grants (ReDi).

The program supports local projects that provide additional value to Basin communities. ReDi Grants are intended to be flexible and incorporate community-based funding decisions. The program is funded by the Trust and delivered in partnership with local governments and First Nations in the Basin, including the RDCK.

“Our community continues to benefit from the vital role Columbia Basin Trust plays in supporting and building up local projects in our area,” said Aimee Watson, RDCK Board Chair and Electoral Area D Director. “We look forward to seeing the submissions and having our many communities participate in the engagement process that the ReDi program requires.”

Last year, 322 applications were received, of which 313 were approved. The majority of projects that received funding were supporting cultural, social, environmental and economic projects.

The granting allocation for the RDCK for 2026 – 2027 is $1,409,849.00.

Click here to find more information about the Columbia Basin Trust ReDi Grants, including, who is eligible and how to apply. The deadline to apply is February 20, 2026 at 4:30 pm.

RDCK purchases land to create future community regional park in the Creston Valley

The RDCK purchased 3823 Goat Canyon Road in Electoral Area B for the development of a community regional park in the Creston Valley. The acquisition of the 4.4-acre property was made possible through contributions from Columbia Basin Trust ($540,000), BC Parks Foundation ($200,000), and the RDCK ($159,000). The property will become a future regional park and re-open long-term public access to the Goat River. The purchase also supports the RDCK, Town of Creston, and Electoral Areas A, B, and C Parks and Recreation Master Plan’s goal of adding parkland for the community. Over the next year the RDCK will complete a full risk assessment and begin developing a management plan to guide access, safety, and environmental protection. Click here for further details, including a map and photo of the property.

Construction Demolition Renovation Waste Multi-Material Diversion Pilot

The Board directed staff to proceed with Construction Demolition Renovation Waste Multi-Material Diversion Pilot (The Pilot) at the Nakusp Resource Recovery Facility in early 2026. The purpose of this pilot is to determine the viability of diversion programs for pane and automative glass (glass packing is already available at RDCK recycling depots) and drywall waste.

The objective of the pilot will be to recycle drywall into new drywall, which has been a common practice in larger centres for years, and is available in many other regions in BC. As well, recovered automotive and window pane glass will be crushed and used as cement additive, which significantly reduces embodied Greenhouse Gases generated in cement making.

Piloting CDR diversion onsite at Nakusp offers an opportunity to trial alternative resource recovery models for rural transfer station locations. If successful some of the diversion services may become permanent, and potentially expand to other facilities in the region.

The pilot is funded through $10,000 from the City of Nelson’s Low Carbon Homes Initiative Fund and $10,000 from the RDCK’s Local Government Climate Action Program funds.

Letter of Opposition – Bill M 216 – Professional Reliance Act

The Board approved sending a letter of concern/opposition to the Ministry of Housing and Municipal Affairs regarding Bill M 216 – 2025 Professional Reliance Act.

Bill M 216 is intended to reduce perceived duplication in local government oversight of construction, but contains multiple interpretations and could undermine public safety, bylaw compliance, and local government liability protections. If approved, the Bill requires local governments to accept certified submissions from professionals without meaningful review. The Bill assumes these professionals possess detailed knowledge of complex, jurisdiction-specific bylaws and prevents local governments from rejecting non-compliant plans early in the permit process. This could result in buildings constructed in violation of bylaws, costly retroactive fixes, and delayed responses to serious safety issues where peer reviews are urgently needed. Further, the Bill’s narrow and unclear liability protections leave local governments exposed, especially since many professionals carry limited, claims-made insurance that may not respond when construction defects emerge.

Tipping fees increased at RDCK facilities

The Board adopted Resource Recovery Facility Regulatory Bylaw No. 3065, 2025 which includes a 6.4% increase to most tipping fees. Organic waste products tipping fees will increase by just 2.4%. These changes go into effect January 1, 2026.  

The 6.4% increase is a combination of a 2.4% increase to address inflation, plus a 4% increase planned each year, over the next five years in an effort to achieve cost recovery; managing waste largely through tipping fees, rather than taxation, is aligned with the RDCK’s goal to operate a user pay system.  

In addition, mattresses will now be charged a per-unit rate of $17.50 each. The switch to a “per unit” rate for mattresses is in part a response to the exclusion of mattresses from the Recycling Regulation update in 2025. The RDCK and many other regional districts continue to lobby the province to include mattresses in the Recycling Regulation.   

For more information, please visit www.rdck.ca/user-fees.  

2025 appointments for external committees

The Board appointed RDCK Directors to external committees for varying terms, as requested by the external agencies. These appointees represent regional interests on external bodies that deal with specific matters and issues relevant to local stakeholders. These committees include:

• Municipal Insurance Association of British Columbia – Director Keith Page
• Columbia Basin Trust Board of Directors – Director Suzan Hewat
• Regional Invasive Species Working Group – Directors Suzan Hewat and Kelly Vandenberghe
• Selkirk College Regional Innovation Chair for Rural Economic Development – Director Aidan McLaren-Caux
• Ktunaxa/Kinbasket Treaty Advisory Committee – Director Arnold DeBoon
• Municipal Finance Authority – Director Suzan Hewat
• West Kootenay Transit Committee – Directors Diana Lockwood, Maria McFaddin, and Walter Popoff

Long Term Service Awards

The Board recognized and thanked 31 employees for their long-term service to the RDCK.

Long Term Service Award recipients with Board Chair Aimee Watson (Top Left – Rob Chernenko, Top Right – Chris Lehnert, Bottom Left – Tom Dool, Bottom Right – Stuart Durning)

Tanya Gordon appointed to the RDCK Board of Directors

Effective January 1, 2026, Mayor Tanya Gordon will replace Councillor Leah Main as the representative from the Village of Silverton on the RDCK Board of Directors. Main will assume the role of Alternate Board Director for the Village of Silverton.

The Board would like to thank Director Main for her dedicated service and leadership as a longstanding advocate for rural communities as a member of the RDCK Board of Directors for over a decade. A former Federation of Canadian Municipalities Board member as well, Director Main’s commitment, insight, and collaborative approach has made a lasting impact on our region.

(Pictured: Board Chair Aimee Watson and Leah Main)

Director’s Reports

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

December 11, 2025

Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) is excited to share it has purchased 3823 Goat Canyon Road in Electoral Area B for $899,000. The 4.4-acre property will become a future regional park and re-open long-term public access to the Goat River, supporting the RDCK, Town of Creston and Electoral Areas A, B & C Parks and Recreation Master Plan’s goal of adding parkland for the community. Securing this land marks an important step in re-establishing a community gathering place cherished by generations.

“It’s exciting to see our efforts to acquire parkland for the community come to life,” said Roger Tierney, RDCK Electoral Area B Director. “This acquisition represents an important step toward improving parkland access in the region. As we move into planning, it is important that we hear from residents to help shape the future of this regional park, while also continuing our engagement with the Yaqan Nuʔkiy.”

While the land is now publicly owned, it is not yet open for public use. A full risk assessment must be completed, and any identified risks mitigated, before the public can safely enjoy the park. Over the next year, the RDCK will complete these site assessments and begin developing a management plan to guide access, safety, and environmental protection.

Residents will have opportunities to provide input as planning for the future of the park moves forward. The RDCK will share engagement details once they have been determined. The RDCK has also been in contact with Yaqan Nuʔkiy throughout the acquisition and will continue their engagement as planning advances.

“We’re grateful to our partners for their support in making this acquisition possible,” said Tierney. “Without their contributions, this purchase wouldn’t have been feasible.”

The land acquisition was made possible through contributions from Columbia Basin Trust ($540,000), BC Parks Foundation ($200,000), and the RDCK ($159,000).

“Restoring access to the Goat River has long been a community priority, and we’re pleased to help make this important step possible,” said Katie Kendall, Senior Manager, Delivery of Benefits, Columbia Basin Trust. “We look forward to seeing the RDCK, Yaqan Nuʔkiy, and the community shape the future of this cherished place.”

“Adding this land to the public trust is a real win for the Creston Valley and we are happy to have played a role in making it happen,” says Andy Day, CEO of BC Parks Foundation. “It sets the stage for a future regional park where people will be able to swim, paddle, and spend time by the Goat River in a beautiful place. Parks like this improve people’s mental and physical health, boost the local economy, and are good for nature.”

For more information visit rdck.ca/parks.

Aimee Watson acclaimed as RDCK Board Chair for 2026

Electoral Area D Director Aimee Watson was acclaimed as Board Chair for 2026 by the RDCK Board at this month’s meeting. Chair Watson has served as the RDCK Electoral Area D Director since 2014 and begins her eighth term as Chair.

Village of Nakusp Councillor and RDCK Director Aidan McLaren-Caux was elected as Board Vice-Chair for 2026 by the Board of Directors. Vice-Chair McLaren-Caux has served as a RDCK Director since 2022 and begins his second term as Vice-Chair.

The Board Chair and Vice-Chair are elected annually by the Board of Directors and serve a one-year term.

2026-2030 Draft Financial Plan

The Board continued its discussions on the 2026-2030 Draft Financial Plan, with presentations on Emergency Consolidated Services, Geospatial Information Systems, Building Inspection, and Planning & Land Use. The objective is to provide the Board an earlier review of the budget process to allow for feedback, questions, or requests. The final draft of the budget needs to be ready for adoption at the March 2026 Board meeting for submission to the ministry.

Click here to read the draft financial plan review.

Click here to review the 2025-2029 sub-regional budget presentations from last year’s engagement process.

Columbia Basin Trust Wildfire Grant

The Board authorized staff to apply for the 2025 Columbia Basin Trust Community Resiliency Investment Program, a grant from Columbia Basin Trust in the amount of $1,638,130 to build resiliency towards wildfire through education and wildfire risk reduction work. If successful in attaining the grant, the funds will go towards Youth FireSmart Education, incremental funding to support the delivery of FireSmart Farm and Ranch Assessments in all Electoral Areas, and prescription and fuel treatments based on current Community Wildfire Resiliency Plans.

Emergency Support Services Grant

The Board authorized staff to apply for the 2026 Community Emergency Preparedness Fund – Emergency Support Services (ESS) grant from the Union of BC Municipalities in the amount of $225,195 to support and improve ESS service delivery across the RDCK. If approved, this funding will support key program improvements, expand training options, and allow ESS teams to gather as a regional team more frequently. ESS is a provincial program delivered by local governments to provide short-term support to residents displaced by emergencies or disasters. Within the RDCK, ESS is coordinated regionally and delivered locally by trained volunteers to all electoral areas and municipalities, with the exception of Castlegar and New Denver, who administer their own ESS programs.

Just this month, the RDCK hosted a regional gathering to bring together volunteers for a day of community building, planning for the future, and acknowledging the many years of dedicated service by our volunteers. There are nine ESS teams in the RDCK, but always room for more people to volunteer. Interested residents can find out more information at www.rdck.ca/joinESS.

Director’s Reports

RDCK Directors provide monthly reports outlining what they have been working on. Click here to read the November reports in the Board minutes. Click here to watch the Directors’ Reports (03:59:55 in the video).

RDCK Quarterly Report

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

Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) is pleased to announce successful completion of major upgrades to the Nakusp Waste Facility, marking a significant step in its transition from an active landfill to a modern transfer station.

Over the past two years the Nakusp site underwent substantial improvements, including the installation of a new tipping area and compacting bins. These upgrades were part of a long-term strategy to enhance waste management services, control costs, and improve environmental performance while preparing for the eventual closure of the landfill.

Nakusp Transfer Station

Landfill Closure and Continued Services

The landfill is expected to cease operations November 24, 2025, once it reaches the limits of its current footprint. This closure will not affect the majority of site users. Residents will continue to dispose of household garbage and most recyclable materials at the new transfer station, which is now fully operational. Existing areas for clean wood, metal, tires, tanks, and yard & garden materials will remain unchanged. Staff will provide direction for any materials not suitable for bin disposal.

Why the Change?

The decision to consolidate landfilling across the RDCK was first recommended in 2009 to reduce operating costs and improve environmental outcomes. Currently, RDCK landfills operate without engineered liners or leachate treatment systems. While these are not required for existing RDCK landfill cells, any new cells will require costly infrastructure to meet modern standards; transitioning the Nakusp site to a transfer station and hauling waste to Ootischenia Landfill, will allow the region to avoid the higher costs of meeting these standards.

Environmental Benefits

Over 90% of waste-related emissions in Nakusp stem from landfill decomposition rather than transportation. Although hauling waste to Ootischenia may slightly increase emissions in the short term, significant reductions are expected by the mid-2030s, when Ootischenia begins managing landfill gas—an initiative not feasible at smaller sites like Nakusp.

The Ootischenia Landfill will be developed as an engineered landfill, including liners and leachate collection and treatment system, reducing the impact of waste on the receiving environment.

What to Expect After Closure

To ease the transition, allowances will be made for some disposals normally not accepted at RDCK transfer stations, for the first year following landfill closure. For larger disposals (greater than 5 m3 or 2,000 kg) RDCK staff will strive to accommodate residents, municipal partners, and contractors, through assessing loads on a case-by-case basis. Loads that exceed bin capacity or posing a threat to infrastructure or hauling safety (e.g., dense boulders or concrete which can damage bins or create weight imbalances) will be directed to Ootischenia for disposal.

As with all RDCK transfer stations, the following Controlled Wastes will not be accepted at Nakusp once landfilling ends:

• Contaminated soil,
• Municipal wastewater biosolids,
• Dead animals (quantities over 121 litres/27 imperial gallons),
• Land clearing debris (quantities over 1.5 cubic metres),
• Asbestos containing materials.

Click here for a full list of accepted controlled waste materials. The Nakusp Transfer Station will continue to operate its septage pit until alternative service options are assessed for the Nakusp area.

Looking Ahead

The RDCK is actively exploring construction, demolition, and renovation waste diversion options to reduce the need for hauling this heavy, bulky waste to Ootischenia for disposal.

“We appreciate the community’s patience throughout this transition,” said Uli Wolf, RDCK General Manager of Environmental Services. “We’re proud to offer a modern, efficient, and environmentally responsible waste management solution for Nakusp.”

For more information

Please visit www.rdck.ca/NakuspTS.

Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) will be completing important maintenance projects at the Castlegar & District Community Complex in 2026. To complete the work needed, the dry arena floor and pool will each have extended scheduled closures.

Closure Schedule:

• Dry Arena Floor: April 27 to August 10, 2026
  • Brief reopening June 10–14 for graduation events.
  • Ice making begins August 11.
• Pool: August 1 to September 13, 2026
  • Reopening September 14.

The dry arena floor will be closed so a low-emissivity ceiling can be installed, and insulation work can be completed in the attic above. This will lead to energy efficiency and extend the life of the arena roof. In the pool, annual maintenance will take place alongside the next phase of the roof replacement project, which includes interior work that must be completed while the pool is closed.

“Maintaining our assets through regular maintenance and timely capital improvements, ensures they remain safe, efficient, and reliable for our community,” said Craig Stanley, Regional Manager – Operations & Asset Management. “We understand the temporary closures may cause disruption, and we are thankful for the community’s patience as we work to ensure the facility continues to serve residents well into the future.”

Local user groups, including swim clubs and lacrosse organizations, have been informed of the upcoming summer closures. The RDCK encourages users to plan ahead when purchasing memberships, as both areas will be fully closed for the durations noted.

RDCK to pause concept design for new office space in Creston

The Board directed staff to pause its detailed investigation to develop a concept design and estimate the renovation of a new RDCK office space on the upper floor of Rotacrest Hall in Creston. Staff were also directed to finalize the feasibility study for potential office space in Creston, including the investigation of properties not owned or leased by the RDCK, and bring a report back to the Board.

Castlegar & District Community Complex Facility Enhancement Project.

The Board authorized staff to prepare a service establishment bylaw and a loan authorization bylaw in the amount of $15 million for the purpose of construction of a second arena and walking track in the City of Castlegar and Electoral Area J.

The Castlegar & District Recreation Commission and RDCK are actively planning the potential new recreation amenity at the Castlegar & District Community Complex. The proposed project is guided by feedback from the Reimagining Recreation engagement process, which helped identify which amenities were a priority for the community and which areas would be willing to participate in funding the project.

Electoral Area I is not included in the proposed new service bylaw and would not contribute to the construction or asset renewal of the new amenity. However, if the projects moves forward, following voter approval, Electoral Area I would contribute to the ongoing operation and maintenance of the new amenity.

2026-2030 Draft Financial Plan for General Administration and Rural Administration

The Board began discussions on the 2026-2030 Draft Financial Plan for General Administration Services (includes corporate administration, finance, information technology, human resources, Chief Administrative Officer, and Municipal and Rural Directors) and Rural Administration Services (bylaw services, Rural Director expenses, and election services). The objective is to provide the Board an earlier review of the budget process to allow for feedback, questions, or requests. The final draft of the budget needs to be ready for adoption at the March 2026 Board meeting for submission to the ministry.

Click here to read the draft financial plan review.

Click here to review the 2025-2029 sub-regional budget presentations.

Permissive Tax Exemptions

The Permissive Tax Exemption Bylaw was adopted by the Board. Permissive tax exemptions issued by the RDCK Board, exempt eligible properties from taxation for a specified period of time, as they pertain to specific land uses, prescribed by the Province, in the Local Government Act. Properties eligible for a permissive tax exemption include land owned and held by an athletic or service organization for recreational use by the public, places of worship, agricultural or horticultural societies, halls or venues, and art galleries or museums owned by not-for-profit organizations. Applications are reviewed based on four key areas: land and improvement eligibility, applicant eligibility, regulatory eligibility, and taxation considerations.

For more information www.rdck.ca/taxexempt.

Director’s Reports

RDCK Directors provide monthly reports outlining what they have been working on. Click on the links below for more information.

Director Jackman report

Director Vandenberghe report

Director Watson report

Direct Graham and Newell report

Director Hewat report

Director Mclaren-Caux report

Director Popoff report

RDCK Quarterly Report

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

Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) is pleased to announce that effective immediately the Water Quality Advisory issuedfor users on the Erickson Water System has been rescinded.

On October 12, 2025 a Water Quality Advisory was issued due to a temporary issue with a chlorine dosing pump at the Arrow Creek Water Treatment Plant, which resulted in lower-than-required chlorine residual entering the distribution system.

The repairs have been completed and water quality tests indicate that the water quality is good.

The RDCK appreciates Erickson water users’ cooperation and patience during this time and apologizes for the inconvenience experienced.

Nelson, BC: Following a small fire that occurred on the roof above the pool area in the early morning of Thursday, October 16, we are pleased to confirm that contractors have completed inspections and the necessary repairs have been done to the affected area. The pool will reopen on Friday, October 17, for its regular hours of operation.

Thanks to the prompt actions of staff and the Castlegar Fire Department, the fire was kept small and damage to the building was minimized. To safely reopen the pool, crews removed and replaced a six-foot section of damaged wall with new materials matching the existing structure. No further structural work is required. Other than a slight smoke odour that may remain, there are no ongoing impacts to the facility.

The cause of the fire remains undetermined at this time.

The RDCK would again like to thank the Castlegar Fire Department for their quick response, and to the community for their patience and understanding as we worked to safely reopen the facility.

Nelson, BC: At approximately 1:15 am on Thursday, October 16, staff at the Castlegar & District Community Complex noticed smoke in the pool area. Upon investigation, staff observed smoke coming from the roof and immediately called 911. The Castlegar Fire Department responded quickly, extinguishing the fire shortly after arrival.

Thanks to the prompt actions of Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) staff and the Castlegar Fire Department, the fire was contained to a small area. However, there is a noticeable smoke smell in the pool area, and repair work will be required before reopening the pool.

As a result, the pool area will be closed until further notice, pending inspection and confirmation that it is safe for both patrons and staff. The rest of the facility remains open, as it was unaffected aside from minor smoke odour. The RDCK will provide updates as information becomes available.

An investigation into the cause of the fire is underway.

The RDCK would again like to thank the Castlegar Fire Department for their quick response and community members for their understanding as we work to reopen the pool safely.

Nelson, BC: Effective immediately, the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) has rescinded water conservation measures for all RDCK water systems. Users can return to regular water consumption.

The RDCK appreciates your cooperation in adhering to the water restrictions. For more information, please visit our website at www.rdck.ca/water, or contact the RDCK at (250) 352-8161 or 1-800-268-7325 ext. 8161. Click here to learn more about water conservation.

Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) has issued a Water Quality Advisory for users on the Erickson Water System. The system is located in Erickson just outside the eastern border of Creston, crossing the boundary of RDCK Electoral Areas B and C.

This advisory is being issued due to a temporary issue with a chlorine dosing pump at the Arrow Creek Water Treatment Plant, which resulted in lower-than-required chlorine residual entering the distribution system. The issue has been corrected, and normal chlorination has resumed; however, water with a lower chlorine residual is currently moving through parts of the distribution network.

While the Arrow Creek Water Treatment Plant provides multiple barriers to protect water quality—including membrane filtration, ultraviolet disinfection, and chlorination—Interior Health recommends that individuals with weakened immune systems, the elderly, children, and anyone wishing additional protection should boil their water for at least one minute before drinking, washing fruits and vegetables, making beverages or ice, or brushing teeth.

Owners of all public facilities must post a Water Quality Advisory at all sinks or drinking water fountains accessible to the public (alternatively, public fountains and taps may be turned off). As opportunities arise, they must also advise their clientele verbally of the Water Quality Advisory.

RDCK staff will continue to monitor chlorine residual levels throughout the system and will lift the advisory once consistent and adequate disinfectant residuals are confirmed.

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.

BC Transit, the City of Nelson and the Regional District of Central Kootenays (RDCK) are advising customers of an upcoming temporary change to transit service.

Starting Thursday, October 16 until Friday, October 31, construction on the Perry’s Back Road Bridge in Electoral Area H will cause some delays and route changes. Route 20 Slocan Valley will detour away from Slocan River Road/Perry’s Back Road and instead take Highway 6 between Winlaw and the Threads Guild Hall. See poster below for details.

Please see notices printed at area bus stops and sign up for customer alerts at bctransit.com/west-kootenay for the latest on this detour.

For more information about trip planning, schedules and to sign up for customer alerts, please visit bctransit.com/west-kootenay

Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) is pleased to announce the Rosebery to Three Forks Regional Trail (Galena Trail) is now open for public use.

Work has been completed on the installation of a new 85-foot aluminum bridge, along with wooden ramp approaches and other earthworks required to restore the trail connection between the cable car crossing and the Three Forks trailhead.

Trail users can once again enjoy the full length of the Galena Trail. The RDCK appreciates the public’s patience and cooperation while the necessary work was completed to ensure safety and accessibility.

For more information, updates on the trail status, visit rdck.ca/parks.

Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) is pleased to announce that effective immediately the Boil Water Notice issued for users on the West Robson Water System in Electoral Area J has been rescinded.

On September 25, 2025 a Boil Water Notice was issued due to an unanticipated depressurization of the water main during a planned reservoir repair.

The repairs have been completed, and water quality tests indicate that the water quality is good.

The RDCK appreciates West Robson water users’ cooperation and patience during this time and apologizes for the inconvenience experienced.

For more information contact the RDCK 250.352.8161 or visit our website at www.rdck.ca/water.