Category: Uncategorized

Assent Voting – Electoral Area H Local Conservation Fund

The Board approved assent voting (referendum) to determine whether Electoral Area H will join the Regional District of Central Kootenay Local Conservation Fund Service. If approval of the electors is obtained, Electoral Area H will be a full participant in the Local Conservation Fund Service at a cost of $15 per parcel of land to be collected annually. For more information about the fund and voting opportunities, go to www.rdck.ca/AreaHLCF.

Recreation Commission No.10 – Portion of Electoral Area E Service Establishment

The Board approved the bylaw change to the Recreation Commission No. 10 – Portion of Electoral Area E Service Establishment Bylaw. The change, which was obtained through the Alternative Approval Process, allows the RDCK to increase the annual requisition limit to provide recreational programming to Balfour, Harrop and Procter. Go to www.rdck.ca/Rec10 for more information.

Krestova regional parkland purchase

The RDCK has entered into an agreement to purchase two parcels of private land totalling approximately 134 acres in Krestova, Electoral Area H, as regional parkland. The purchase price of the land is $870,000. The RDCK Board approved a $250,000 Community Development Grant to be put towards the purchase. A donation of $145,000 has also been secured, while the remaining $475,000 must be raised by the RDCK through individual donations and other sources such as grants by October 5, 2022.

The RDCK will host a community meeting in Krestova, Monday, August 29 at 7:00 pm at the Krestova Hall (3325 Krestova Road) to discuss options for fundraising.

Stewards of Six Mile Advocacy Group

Dave Afford and Bob Rutherglen, members of the Stewards of Six Mile Advocacy Group, appeared as a delegation to discuss prioritizing Duhamel Creek for flood mitigation work. While the RDCK has identified the creek as a high priority, the group contends prompt action should be taken to mitigate the affects of aging infrastructure and climate change. They are also requesting funding from appropriate agencies to cover the cost of flood mitigation.

Director’s Reports

RDCK Directors provide monthly reports explaining what they have been working on. Click here to read the August reports in the Board minutes (agenda item 3.4, pg.129).

Click here to view a print-friendly PDF version.

RDCK Recreation facilities at the Castlegar & District Community Complex, the Creston & District Community Complex, and the Nelson & District Community Complex are scheduled for annual maintenance closures in the coming weeks.

These closures have been scheduled during the quietest time of the year at the facilities. We have attempted to reduce the overlap of closures to allow guests to visit neighbouring RDCK Recreation facilities. However, some overlap of closures will occur since the facilities have common operating seasons.

We aim to keep annual maintenance closures as short as possible so there is the least amount of disruption to facility users. Thank you for your patience during these closures.

During closures, time-based membership passes will allow facility users to access other RDCK services that are in operation. For example, time-based memberships at the Castlegar facility may be used for public swimming at the Nelson facility while the Castlegar pool is closed. Likewise, Nelson facility passes may be used for public swimming at the Castlegar facility while the Nelson pool is closed.

Castlegar & District Community Complex closures

• Pool closed: Saturday, August 27 to Sunday, September 11
• Fitness classes closed: Saturday, August 27 to Sunday, September 11
• The gym is open Monday, August 29 to Friday, September 2, and is then closed until Monday, September 12.

Creston & District Community Complex closures

• Pool closed: Saturday, August 27 to Sunday, September 11
• The gym and drop-in fitness programs are running as usual during this time.

Nelson & District Community Complex closures

• Pool closed: Thursday, September 1 to Thursday, September 15
• Fitness classes are closed Sunday, August 28 to Saturday, September 3.

For more information about facility hours of operation, please visit www.rdck.ca/recreationhours or contact a customer service representative at your local facility:

• Castlegar & District Community Complex:    250-365-3386
• Creston & District Community Complex:       250-428-7127
• Nelson & District Community Complex:         250-354-4386

Nelson, BC: On the recommendation of the BC Wildfire Service (BCWS), the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) has removed the Evacuation Alert for 14 properties along Kaslo Creek South Fork Road. At this time, the Briggs Creek wildfire in Electoral Area D, is no longer threatening the Community of Kaslo Creek South Fork Road.

Evacuation Alert Removed [PDF – 573 KB]

The Briggs Creek wildfire, west of Kaslo, was first discovered at high elevation on Mount Kemp on August 1 and is estimated to be 2,160 hectares. The cause of the fire is believed to be lightning. The majority of this fire has burned in incredibly steep and mountainous terrain. The RDCK issued an Evacuation Alert on August 1 for 14 properties on Kaslo Creek South Fork Road.

“This has been a stressful month for residents along Kaslo Creek South Fork Road and we appreciate their patience and understanding through this process,” said Stephane Coutu, RDCK EOC Deputy Director. “The BC Wildfire Service has done an outstanding job to keep our communities safe and while this Alert has been removed, it is imperative for residents to maintain awareness by monitoring the BC Wildfire Dashboard and make informed decisions.”

The RDCK advises people to remain vigilant as conditions could change and an Evacuation Alert may be re-issued. It is recommended to prepare an emergency kit and ensure preparedness, including making plans to relocate your pets and livestock to a safe area, in the event of an emergency.

The RDCK EOC will continue to monitor the situation, but will no longer be providing bi-weekly information bulletins for the Briggs Creek wildfire. For the most up to date information on current wildfire activity, conditions and prohibitions, call 1.888.336.7378 or visit www.bcwildfire.ca.

Information about Evacuation Orders and Alerts in the RDCK can be found on the RDCK website, Facebook and Twitter. For details about evacuation and emergency preparedness, along with other resources, please visit www.rdck.ca/eocinfo. The RDCK EOC public inquiry line is 250.352.7701.

For more emergency about evacuations and emergency preparedness, along with other resources:

• Current RDCK Evacuation Alerts, Orders and Rescinds or call 250.352.7701
• Sign up for RDCK Emergency Notification System to receive notifications
• RDCK web map
• BC Wildfire – Interactive Map of Current Events
• Fortis BC Outage Map or call 1.866.436.7847
• BC Hydro outage map or call 1.800.224.9376
• Nelson Hydro 1.877.324.9376
• Drive BC for highway closures and road conditions
• For BC Air Quality Health Index
• Prepared BC

Click here to view a print-friendly PDF version.

Nelson, BC:  The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) has entered into an agreement to purchase two parcels of private land totalling approximately 134 acres in Krestova, Electoral Area H, as regional parkland for use by regional residents and visitors. The purchase price of the land is $870,000.

At its meeting on August 18, the RDCK Board of Directors approved an Area H Community Development Grant of $250,000 be put towards the purchase. A further $145,000 donation has been secured for the purchase. The remaining $475,000 must be raised by the RDCK through individual donations and other sources such as grants by October 5, 2022 to meet the terms of the purchase agreement.

“This property, although it was privately owned, has been used by the local community as an outdoor recreation area and a place for residents to enjoy the historic and cultural attributes of the property,” said RDCK Board Vice-Chair and Electoral Area H Director, Walter Popoff. “The property is now for sale and as the Director for the area the community reached out and requested that the RDCK consider purchasing the property for regional park purposes. To achieve this with community support we still have to raise $475,000.”

The RDCK will host a Krestova community meeting Monday, August 29 at 7:00 pm at Krestova Hall (3325 Krestova Road) to discuss options for fundraising. More information will be shared at the meeeting.

Donations towards the purchase are being accepted by the RDCK. Tax receipts will be issued for donations of $50.00 or more. If fundraising is not successful, donations will be used for future recreational development at Campbell Field at the Playmor Junction. For information on making a donation, please call the RDCK Parks office at 250-352-1574.

Last September, the RDCK Board directed staff to investigate the opportunity to purchase the land by looking into environmental criteria, outdoor experiences and activities, area management and management and planning criteria, as well as other historical and cultural attributes. The local community was also invited to provide input in order to gauge levels of community interest and support next steps. More than 40 letters in support of the purchase were received.

 Click here to view a print-friendly PDF version.

Repair work will continue on the roof of the RDCK head office in Nelson the week of August 22-26. Due to contractors working throughout the building, the majority of staff will be working from home. However, there will be representatives from each department on hand and available to answer all questions or accept submissions from the public. We do encourage residents to make an appointment with staff rather than just dropping in. To make an appointment, call 250-352-6665. We appreciate your patience and understanding during this period of construction.

Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) Emergency Support Services (ESS) teams are in need of volunteers in Creston, West Creston, Erickson and the Canyon-Lister area. ESS teams operate across the RDCK in order to support residents in times of emergency. Due to people moving away or being unable to participate, volunteer numbers have dwindled in the Creston region and the RDCK is looking for community minded people who would like to be part of the program and learn how to support those affected by emergencies.

“Emergency Support Services is a vital resource for our residents during emergencies,” said Jon Jackson, RDCK Emergency Program Coordinator. “Our volunteers assist evacuees with basic needs such as emergency accommodation, food, clothing and other basic essentials. Thankfully, it’s not a service that is needed very frequently, but in an emergency, it makes a huge difference to the lives of people affected.”

For more information about the ESS program go to https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/emergency-management/local-emergency-programs/volunteers/emergency-support-services

If you are interested in volunteering within the RDCK or want to learn more, email Jon Jackson at jjackson@rdck.bc.ca

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Nelson, BC:  The results of the alternative approval process (AAP) seeking electoral approval to increase the annual requisition limit to provide recreation programming to the Recreation Commission No. 10—Area E Service Area have been tabulated and certified. Electoral approval for the bylaw change has been obtained.

A total of 34 electoral response forms were received by the AAP deadline, of which 29 responses could be verified. This is less than the 10% of eligible electors required to prevent the Board from proceeding with the bylaw. The results will be presented to the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) Board of Directors at the August 18 meeting. If approved by the Board, Portion of Electoral Area E (Rec#10) Recreational Program Bylaw No. 787, 1990 will be repealed and replaced with Recreation Commission No. 10—Portion of Electoral Area E Service Establishment Bylaw 2819, 2022.

“Recreation Commission No. 10 has been active in some form or another since 1968, and has allowed the community to enjoy recreation programming and facilities” said Ramona Faust, RDCK Director of Electoral Area E. “I’d like to thank the residents of the service area for letting us know, through this process, how much these programs are valued by the community.”

Recreation Commission No. 10 currently has minimal direct taxation (a total of only $1,000 per year), with remaining funding coming from Community Development Grants from Area E. These grants are not intended to be the primary source of funding for local services like Recreation Commission No. 10. Other recreation services at the RDCK are funded through taxation, which provides greater transparency and long-term sustainability of the service.

The bylaw change, if approved by the Board, will allow the RDCK a more sustainable vehicle through which to continue recreation programming in the area through the establishment of regular taxation.

Information about the potential tax impact and additional information can be found at: www.rdck.ca/Rec10.

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Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) and the BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) invite Southfork and Kaslo area residents to attend a public information session being held in Kaslo on Friday August, 5, 2022 at 5:00pm. Information on the Briggs Creek wildfire will be provided. In attendance will be representatives from the BCWS, RDCK Emergency Operations Centre and the Kaslo Fire Department. There will also be an opportunity for residents to ask questions.

The public information session will take place:

Date: Friday August 5, 2022
Time: 5:00 pm
Location: Royal Canadian Legion Branch 74
                403 5th Street, Kaslo, BC V0G 1M0

This public information session is strictly for those in Southfork, Kaslo and the surrounding area impacted by the Briggs Creek wildfire.

For the latest information on the current wildfire situation go to BCWS or www.rdck.ca/eocinfo.

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Nelson, BC:  At its meeting on July 21, 2022, the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) Board of Directors approved a new fees and charges schedule for recreation admissions and rental fees. The new fees are effective September 6, 2022, and apply to drop-in, single-use, punch passes, and time-based memberships, as well as rental rates for aquatics centres and other facilities.

“The new fees and charges reflect work done over the past few years to build the Community Services fee framework as directed by the Board through the RDCK Fees and Charges Policy to provide greater consistency, transparency, and ability to evaluate the financial performance of services so we can provide better value,” said Joe Chirico, General Manager of Community Services for the RDCK. “The new fees also reflect an increase of 3.7% based on the March 2022 British Columbia Consumer Price Index (BCCPI).”

The BCCPI, or BC Cost of Living index, is a measure of the average change in prices paid by consumers in BC for a market basket of goods ranging from food and shelter to clothing, transportation, and recreation. The current BCCPI reflects the impact of factors including supply chain disruptions and other economic issues.

“RDCK recreation services are funded through a combination of user fees and taxation, and recreation is subsidized by the community for everyone’s benefit,” continued Chirico. “This framework allows the RDCK to enable lifelong participation in recreation and reduce barriers to recreation for children and youth. Costs for our operations have increased with inflation and are reflected in the new fees and charges, but we are still able to deliver high-quality recreation services at great value for users.”

In 2021, the new fees and charges schedule for admissions was approved to ensure greater consistent across all RDCK recreation services. Users were advised about changes such as no admission charges (100% subsidy or 0% cost recovery) for children under five years old and “Golden Guests” over 75. Fees in the Adult category were subsidized by taxation at 50% (or 50% cost recovery), while fees for youth aged five to 18 are subsidized at 75% (or 25% cost recovery).

For 2022, fees and charges for admissions adhere to the same framework, and increases are tied to the BCCPI.

Rental fees for all facilities, except for aquatics, are also increasing by 3.7% based on the BCCPI.

Aquatic centre rental fees are being brought in alignment with RDCK Fees and Charges Policy. These updated fees are calculated using facility operating costs and Policy-directed recovery rates. Some aquatic centre rental users may see an increase or decrease from previous area-specific aquatic centre rental rates.

All fees are effective September 6, 2022, and are automatically applied in the RDCK’s online registration system.

Click here to view the 2022 fees and charges and the policy.

The RDCK continues to provide the Leisure Access Pass. This pass gives families and individuals with financial need the opportunity to access recreation facilities at a 50% discount on admission fees. To learn more visit: https://www.rdck.ca/EN/main/services/recreation/leisure-access-program.html

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Nelson, BC: On the recommendation of the BC Wildfire Service (BCWS), the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) has issued an Evacuation Alert for the properties on Kaslo Creek South Fork road in Electoral Area D. See map of the Evacuation Alert area below.

Evacuation Alert Map

Evacuation Alert address points

2130 KASLO CK SOUTH FORK RD
2138 KASLO CK SOUTH FORK RD
2140 KASLO CK SOUTH FORK RD
2150 KASLO CK SOUTH FORK RD
2160 KASLO CK SOUTH FORK RD
2180 KASLO CK SOUTH FORK RD
2188 KASLO CK SOUTH FORK RD
2194 KASLO CK SOUTH FORK RD
2198 KASLO CK SOUTH FORK RD
2201 KASLO CK SOUTH FORK RD
2209 KASLO CK SOUTH FORK RD
2215 KASLO CK SOUTH FORK RD
2221 KASLO CK SOUTH FORK RD
2225 KASLO CK SOUTH FORK RD

 At this time residents or visitors within the area are not required to evacuate, however the RDCK advises people to remain vigilant and be prepared to leave the area at a moment’s notice. Residents should prepare their emergency grab and go bag, prepare to move pets and livestock to a safe area, and sign up to receive RDCK emergency notifications. Part of your plan should include where you can go if evacuated, such as staying with friends or family. 

 The Briggs Creek wildfire was first discovered on August 1, 2022 and estimated at 386 hectares. The BCWS has determined the cause to be from lightning.

 Updates or changes to the Evacuation Alert will be provided via the RDCK website, Facebook and Twitter as more information becomes available. For details about evacuation and emergency preparedness, along with other resources, please visit www.rdck.ca/eocinfo. The RDCK EOC public inquiry line is 250.352.7701. At this time during the Alert phase, the EOC public inquiry line will be monitored during business hours, between 8:30am and 4:30pm.

 For up to date information on current wildfire activity, conditions and prohibitions, call 1.888.336.7378 or visit www.bcwildfire.ca.

 For more information about evacuations and emergency preparedness, along with other resources:

• Current RDCK Evacuation Alerts, Orders and Rescinds or call 250.352.7701
• RDCK web map
• Public weather alerts for BC from Environment Canada
• BC Wildfire – Interactive Map of Current Events
• Fortis BC Outage Map or call 1.866.436.7847
• BC Hydro outage map or call 1.800.224.9376
• Nelson Hydro 1.877.324.9376
• Drive BC for highway closures and road conditions
• For BC Air Quality Health Index
• Prepared BC

Click here for a print-friendly version

Nelson, BC:  Effective immediately, the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) is implementing mandatory Stage 2 water conservation measures for the Edgewood Water System. The system is experiencing high water use and declining reservoir levels. As a proactive measure for the anticipated extended hot weather and high levels of demand, the Edgewood Water System requires users to conserve water.

Stage 2 water conservation measures are now in effect:

• Watering of lawns, gardens, trees and shrubs is ONLY permitted between 6:00 am – 10:00 am and 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm.
• Watering of gardens, trees and shrubs by watering can or hand-held hose is still permitted anytime.

The RDCK appreciates your cooperation in adhering to the above water conservation measures. Stage 2 water conservation measures will remain in effect until further notice and stricter water conservation measures may be required if demand increases significantly, or hot and dry weather prevails.

Additional information on water conservation measures are available on the RDCK website:www.rdck.ca/water. 

Click here to view a print-friendly PDF version.

Nelson, BC:  The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) will seek approval of the electors within the Village of Salmo and Electoral Area G for the repeal and replacement of Salmo and Portion of Electoral Area G Library Financial Service Bylaw. The new bylaw would expand the service area to include all of Electoral Area G for the purpose of providing a financial contribution towards the costs of operating the Salmo Valley Public Library. Approval will be sought through the Alternative Approval Process (AAP).

If the new bylaw is approved, the expansion of the service will provide additional funding (145 new properties) to the Salmo Valley Public Library.

“As a former educator, I value the importance of the Salmo Valley Public Library and believe it is a priority to have a sustainable funding service,” said Hans Cunningham, RDCK Director of Electoral Area G. “The expanded service will give all residents of Area G the benefit of extensive library services, including access to almost all BC libraries through the BC OneCard. Because the revised area includes expanded industrial rated properties that are taxed at a higher rate, the new bylaw means reduced tax rates for both the Village of Salmo and Area G homeowners. Better service, lower taxes, what is not to like?”

Under Section 86 of the Community Charter, eligible electors within the service area who are opposed to the new bylaw may petition against the adoption by signing an Electoral Response Form. At least 10% of electors must petition against the proposal prior to 4:30 pm on September 5, 2022. Electors who support the proposal should not sign the form.

For more information, including the Electoral Response Form, service area map, and more information about the process, please visit www.rdck.ca/SalmoGLibrary.  

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Nelson, BC:  The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) will seek approval of the electors within Electoral Area E to establish the Electoral Area E Library Financial Aid Service Bylaw. If adopted, the bylaw will establish a financial aid service in Electoral Area E for the purpose of funding the Nelson Public Library. Approval will be sought through the Alternative Approval Process (AAP).

Currently, residents of Electoral Area E are required to pay a subscription fee of $90 per family or $45 per individual for a Nelson Public Library membership. If the new bylaw is approved, residents of Electoral Area E will receive free membership like residents of the City of Nelson, Electoral Area F, and defined portions of Electoral Area H.

“The Nelson Municipal Library is a valuable resource which provides members of our community access to a wide range of services, including an extensive library catalogue, opportunities for kids and teens to learn and explore, a large number of online courses for adults, and a tech hub, featuring a recording and photography studio,” said Ramona Faust, RDCK Director of Electoral Area E. “Currently there are 330 youth memberships which are grant supported. This new service will contribute to the overall literacy of our community and ensure sustainable funding for years to come. ”

If the new bylaw is approved, the proposed requisition amount for 2023 would be $106,138. An average residential property in Electoral Area E with an assessed value in land and improvements of $483,312 would expect to pay $35.37 for library services.

Under Section 86 of the Community Charter, eligible electors within the service area who are opposed to the new bylaw may petition against the adoption by signing an Electoral Response Form. At least 10% of electors must petition against the proposal prior to 4:30pm on September 5, 2022. Electors who support the proposal should not sign the form.

For more information, including the Electoral Response Form, service area map, and more information about the process, please visit www.rdck.ca/AreaELibrary.

 Click here to view a print-friendly PDF verison.

Nelson, BC:  Effective immediately, the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) and Town of Creston are implementing mandatory Stage 2 water conservation measures for the Erickson water system and the Town of Creston. The Arrow Creek water system is experiencing high water usage, resulting in reduced ability to perform essential maintenance procedures for continued water production. As a proactive measure for the anticipated extended hot weather and high levels of demand, the Arrow Creek water system requires that Creston and Erickson water system users conserve water.

“The Arrow Creek water treatment plant, which supplies water to both Erickson and the Town of Creston, is operating near maximum capacity,” said Jason McDiarmid, RDCK Utility Services Manager. “As a result, equipment components are not able to be taken off-line for maintenance procedures that will ensure their continued operation for water production.”

Stage 2 water conservation measures are now in effect for both the Town of Creston and Erickson Water Systems:

• Watering of lawns, gardens, trees and shrubs is ONLY permitted between 6:00 am – 10:00 am and 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm.
• Watering of gardens, trees and shrubs by watering can or hand-held hose is still permitted anytime.

The Town of Creston and the RDCK appreciate your cooperation in adhering to the above water conservation measures. Stage 2 water conservation measures will remain in effect until further notice and stricter water conservation measures may be required if demand increases significantly, hot and dry weather prevails, or stream flows decline to critically low levels.

Erickson water conservation measures are available on the RDCK website: www.rdck.ca/water.

Town of Creston water conservation measures are available at: www.creston.ca.

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Electoral Area E Library Contribution Service Establishment – Alternative Approval Process

The Board directed staff to proceed with obtaining approval of the electors within Electoral Area E to establish the Electoral Area E Library Financial Contribution Service Bylaw. The new bylaw would establish a service for the purpose of providing financial contribution towards the costs of operating the Nelson Municipal Library. If approved, all residents within Electoral Area E will receive a free library membership rather than having to purchase it.

Approval is to be obtained through the Alternative Approval Process (AAP). The Board obtains approval if fewer than 10% of eligible electors in the area covered by the AAP submit elector response forms in opposition of the particular matter. The elector response form must be received before 4:30 pm on September 5, 2022.

If the service receives elector approval, the proposed requisition amount for 2023 would be $106,138. An average residential property in Electoral Area E with an assessed value in land and improvements of $483,312 would expect to pay $35.37 for library services. Go to www.rdck.ca/AreaELibrary for more information.

Salmo and Electoral Area G Library Financial Aid Service – Alternative Approval Process

The Board directed staff to proceed with obtaining approval of the electors within the Village of Salmo and Electoral Area G for the repeal and replacement of Salmo and Portion of Electoral Area G Library Financial Aid Service Bylaw. The new bylaw would expand the service area to include all of Electoral Area G for the purpose of providing a financial contribution towards the costs of operating the Salmo Valley Public Library. The expansion of the service will provide additional funding, but little to no change in taxation to current participants.

Approval is to be obtained through the Alternative Approval Process (AAP). The Board obtains approval if fewer than 10% of eligible electors in the area covered by the AAP submit elector response forms in opposition of the particular matter. The elector response form must be received before 4:30 pm on September 5, 2022. Go to www.rdck.ca/SalmoGLibrary for more information.

Southeastern BC Regional Connectivity Committee

Rob Gay, Regional Connectivity Committee Chair for the Southeastern BC Regional Connectivity Committee (SE BC RCC), appeared as a delegation at July’s Board Meeting. The SE BC RCC works with local governments and First Nations in Southeastern BC to address high speed connectivity and mobility access challenges. The goal is for all residents, especially those in rural and remote areas, to have access to connectivity adequate enough to achieve the users intended activity, whether it be access to employment, education or health care. Currently the main focus of the SE BC RCC is its application for the Universal Broadband Fund which provides federal funding to bring high speed internet to rural and remote households.

Kootenay Cannabis Economic Development Council

Shannon Ross and Chè LeBlanc from the Kootenay Cannabis Economic Development Council (KCEDC) appeared as a delegation to discuss their mandate to support economic development of the regions vital cannabis sector. The region has a strong reputation for high quality cannabis and the potential economic benefits have been recognized by the Ministry of Agriculture. The KCEDC continue to work through the challenges of legalization and identifying opportunities for policy changes to lower the barriers for those seeking a federal licence to produce or process cannabis.

Service case analysis for a Drinking Water & Watershed Protection Service bylaw

The Board direct staff to prepare a service case analysis and report on the implications of establishing a Drinking Water & Watershed Protection Service bylaw for the protection of watersheds and drinking water throughout the RDCK. A potential service could support a whole watershed ecosystem based planning approach that includes the consideration of the land, water and the humans and animal uses of the land. This service could also provide consistent funding, monitor both ground water and surface water, educate the public on conservation and licensing, and help to build partnerships with the Province, First Nations, industry and residents. Staff will report back to the Board in 2023 to determine if a service will be established.

Potential for new park land near Taghum Hall

With an increased interest for more parks and trails, the Board direct staff to work with Teck Metals Ltd. to develop a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for working towards a lease agreement for the vacant land by Taghum Hall. The 17 hectares of land has the potential for outdoor recreation activities. The MOU will outline the purpose, timing and sequence of events for finalizing a lease agreement for managing the land for park and trail purposes.

New user fees and rental fees for RDCK Community Services

The Board approved a 3.7% 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 6, 2022. The increase is based upon the March 2022 British Columbia cost of Living Index increase of 3.7% in 2021. Recreation services at the RDCK are funded through a combination of user fees and taxation, so that recreation is subsidized by the community for the benefit of the community.

Traditional Use Study in partnership with Ktunaxa Nation Council

Working with Ktunaxa Nation Council, the Board approves an amount up to $100,000 for Traditional Use Study work at five locations in Electoral Areas A, B, C and Creston: Crawford Bay Regional Park, Martell Beach, Powerline Beach, Goat River and the West Creston Ferry Landing. The work includes archival research, archaeological research and knowledge holder outreach by means of family focused oral interviews. The goal is to improve the RDCK’s understanding of Ktunaxa and Yaqan Nukiy culture, determine how these properties were historically used, while also providing common ground on which consultation and collaboration can continue to occur.

City of Castlegar Councillor Dan Rye appointed to RDCK Board

Effective July 18, 2022, the Board approved the appointment of City of Castlegar Councillor Dan Rye as the RDCK Board Director and Mayor Kirk Duff as the Alternate Board Director for the term ending November 30, 2022.

RDCK Quarterly Report

The Board received the 2022 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 explaining what they have been working on. Click here to read the July reports in the Board minutes (agenda item 4.4, pg.156).

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