Creston Landfill – Site has resumed normal operations

The Creston Landfill has resumed normal operations.

Site hours are Tuesday to Saturday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Creston Landfill & Recycling Depot – Customers should expect delays

Creston Landfill – Closed due to excessive dust

The Creston Landfill is CLOSED for the remainder of the day.  They are experiencing excessive dust with the wind storm that is impacting visibility and causing concern for the health and safety of staff and site users.

Site will re-open when conditions are safe.

Creston Car Wash Recycling Depot – Reduced Hours Sept 14, 2021

Crescent Valley Recycling Depot – Early Closure on June 29, 2021

Crescent Valley Recycling Depot – Closed Sept 9, 2021

Crescent Valley Recycling Depot – Closed Nov 30, 2021

Construction begins on new child care centre at the Castlegar and District Community Complex

Nelson, BC: Construction of the new child care centre at the Castlegar and District Community Complex (CDCC) officially broke ground on Tuesday, April 27. The new facility, to be built on the grounds of the CDCC, will provide 30 new child care spaces for local families. The project is being delivered through a partnership with the Regional District of Central Kootenay’s (RDCK) Castlegar and District Recreation Commission (CDRC) and Kootenay Family Place (KFP). KFP is a registered non-profit organization serving the needs of children, youth and families throughout the West Kootenay Boundary region.

Photo courtesy: Jennifer Small

Pictured left to right: Back row – Jim Crockett – Manager of Recreation, CDCC, Rick Smith – Area J Director, Jason Craig – Maintenance Foreman, CDCC, John Paone – President, Alfred Horie Construction Co. Ltd., Elyse Kavanagh – Cover Architecture, Rebecca Vassilakakis – Chair, KFP, Dan Rye – Chair, CDRC

Seated – Shari Imada – RDCK Project Manager, Sally Bojechko – Co-Executive Director, KFP, Sue Heaton Sherstobitoff, CDRC, Audrey Maxwell Polovnikoff, Recreation Coordinator, CDCC

“The child care centre will be a great addition to the Castlegar Recreation Facility and we thank the Ministry of Children and Family Development for recognizing the need by way of financial support of the project,” said Dan Rye, Chair of the Castlegar and District Recreation Commission. “This facility will answer the need for quality child care in our area and most importantly support families with a safe place for their children to learn and grow.”

“Increasing access to quality, affordable and inclusive child care is essential to helping families in Castlegar thrive,” said Katrine Conroy, MLA for Kootenay West. “By working with partners like the Regional District of Central Kootenay, who understand the unique needs of our communities, we’re making progress on universal child care that works for everyone.”

The RDCK, CDRC and KFP with funding support from Columbia Basin Trust, successfully applied to the Province’s Childcare BC New Spaces Fund to support the new, licensed spaces in Castlegar.

The project was officially announced on March 13, 2020 and is expected to open in late September 2021. The centre will be situated across from the skateboard park, adjacent to the complex pool, facing south. Access to the tennis courts and pickle ball courts at the CDCC will not be impacted by the construction.

Rendering of Child Care Centre, Courtesy – Cover Architecture

In addition to the 30 new spaces, the facility will offer 20 licensed pre-school and after school spaces, providing part time care in the mornings and after school. The CDCC will have access to the facility for programming and school break camps when not in use for child care. A child care project committee has been formed with representatives from the RDCK and KFP in order to ensure a cohesive and mutually beneficial facility.

In July of 2020, Cover Architecture was awarded the contract for design services and in April 2021 Alfred Horie Construction Co. Ltd., was awarded the contract for construction services for the child care centre. The design is a standalone building which incorporates an innovative cross laminated timber wood product in the exterior walls and roof, produced locally by Kalesnikoff.

For more information regarding the childcare services that will be offered at the CDCC and status updates on the construction project, click here. 

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Confirmed COVID-19 case at Nelson & District Community Complex

Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) has been notified by Interior Health (IH) that a guest at the Nelson & District Community Complex has tested positive for COVID-19.

The guest was a participant in a camp program on August 5 and 6. Anybody who may have been exposed is being contacted directly.

This information is being provided out of transparency. Some details are not being released for privacy reasons. If we receive any further direction or guidance from Interior Health, we will act accordingly.

If you are a close contact of a confirmed COVID-19 case, the IH Public Health team will contact you directly. If this happens, follow the directions provided to you by the Public Health team. In cases where not everyone can be reached, IH will post public exposures online: https://news.interiorhealth.ca/news/public-exposures/  

The RDCK reminds everyone to continue to be vigilant and to follow the guidance from the BC Provincial Health Officer to keep yourself and your loved ones safe from COVID-19. Learn more from the following resources:

• BC Centre for Disease Control: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19
• BC Ministry of Health: https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/health-feature/coronavirus-disease-covid-19
• Interior Health Authority: https://news.interiorhealth.ca/covid-19/ 
• Health Canada: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/coronavirus-disease-covid-19.html
• If you and your family members develop symptoms, call your health‐care provider or 8‐1‐1 (BC Health Link) to discuss any need for testing and follow-up.

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Pioneer Arena and Nelson Civic Centre to close for the season

Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) will close the Pioneer Arena in Castlegar on January 18 and the Civic Centre in Nelson on January 29 for the remainder of the winter season. The decision was made after much discussion at both the Castlegar and District Recreation Commission meeting on January 12, 2021 and the Nelson and District Recreation Commission meeting on January 14, 2021 to close the two ice sheets.

 On January 8, 2021 the Public Health Order which restricts adult participation in sport was extended without an expiration date on sections of the order that apply to sport and fitness. Adults have not been able to participate in team sports since November 19, 2020. The restriction on adult participation in team sport and other public health restrictions has resulted in arena rental revenue decreasing $118,000 across the RDCK`s five arenas between September 14 and December 31, 2020 versus the same time period in 2019. The closure of the arenas is being done to reduce expenditures in response to the reduction in revenue.  

“We recognize the shared hardship of this decision and do so with an eye on next year,” said Keith Page, Chair, RDCK Recreation Commission No.5. “Moving to a single ice sheet for the remainder of the season recognizes palpable cost and personnel constraints. The community expects us to provide quality, safe and diverse recreation opportunities within budget for all members of our community. Operating a single rink is the service level that can be reasonably delivered within our budget.”

The impact of COVID-19 on the RDCK’s community services has been significant. Usage of all its facilities throughout the region has dramatically dropped. Adult indoor team sport is not permitted, while minor hockey, the Kootenay International Junior Hockey League (KIJHL) and British Columbia Intercollegiate Hockey League (BCIHL) cannot play games or travel. No games or tournaments have been booked in any RDCK facility, which has impacted revenue. With reduced usage of rinks throughout the RDCK, ice needs can be accommodated by only keeping the ice sheets at the Creston, Castlegar and Nelson and District Community Complexes open for the remainder of the winter season.

“The RDCK supports the Provincial Health Officer and the Province of British Columbia’s efforts to keep communities safe by limiting social interaction, but this comes with sacrifices for everyone,” said Joe Chirico, General Manager of Community Services. “However, these restrictions have seriously affected the rental revenue of our recreation services.  Decisions like this, although difficult, are important to ensure that the cost of our recreation services are balanced between user fees and taxation.”

The RDCK will continue to deliver recreation programming to support our community’s physical, social and spiritual well-being while adhering to all public health guidelines and ensuring the safety of our community and staff.

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Burton Transfer Station CLOSED Saturday, July 24

Building Activity in the RDCK Continues at Record Levels

Nelson, BC: Building activity in the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) remains at record levels as we pass the first quarter of 2021. Through the end of March, inspections completed by building officials are up 50% over last year at this time and permits issued are up 46% over this time last year as well.

Throughout this high growth period, our small pool of dedicated RDCK building officials, as well as, administrative and technical support staff continue to provide prompt, quality and professional building services to the community, despite working with limited staff resources and a high volume of work. Current processing time for building permits is approximately six weeks, though processing times can be longer as staff are now spending more time in the field completing inspections and less time in the office.

“We appreciate your patience and understanding during this extremely busy time,” said Christopher Gainham, RDCK Building Manager. “We recommend all potential applicants prepare accordingly for extended processing times as we deal with unprecedented demand.”

To reduce the likelihood that an application is rejected or delayed, applicants should ensure they come prepared with a “counter ready application”, meaning the application is complete and free from errors or omissions. By doing so, you will help reduce processing time and do your part to make sure your project stays on schedule.

To assist applicants in navigating the building process, the RDCK has produced some useful online resources, including our permit application information page.

Click here for the RDCK Building Brochure which provides useful guidance on the requirements when applying for a building permit.  

Click here for general information on the building process on our main page.

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Boswell Transfer Station & Nakusp Landfill – Closed January 13, 2021

Boil Water Notice Rescinded for the Fauquier Water System

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 Fauquier Water System has been rescinded.

On Tuesday July 20, 2021 a BOIL WATER NOTICE was issued due to the need for bypassing the water treatment plant to increase system capacity and meet the demand of wildfire mitigation efforts in the community.

Additional system capacity is no longer required and water quality tests indicate that the water quality is good. Customers may return to regular water consumption.

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

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Boil Water Notice Rescinded for the Fauquier Water System

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 Fauquier Water System has been rescinded.

On Tuesday, September 28, 2021 a BOIL WATER NOTICE was issued due to the loss of water pressure from an emergency water main repair.

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Boil water notice rescinded for the Edgewood Water System

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

On Monday, July 19, 2021 a BOIL WATER NOTICE was issued due to the need to increase system capacity through additional untreated water from the decommissioned wells to meet the demand of wildfire mitigation efforts in the community.

Additional system capacity is no longer required and water quality tests indicate that the water quality is good. Customers may return to regular water consumption.

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

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Boil Water Notice issued for the Fauquier Water System

Nelson, BC:  The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) has issued a BOIL WATER NOTICE for users on the Fauquier Water System. The system is located in the community of Fauquier, on the east side of Lower Arrow Lake within RDCK Electoral Area K. The Needles Ferry landing is part of the Fauquier Water System.

The BOIL WATER NOTICE has been issued due to an emergency water main repair that requires depressurization of the water main. Water outages currently being experienced are anticipated to be resolved by 6:00pm June 15, 2021.

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) 352-8192 or visit our website at www.rdck.ca/water.

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Boil Water notice issued for the Fauquier Water System

Nelson, BC:  The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) has issued a BOIL WATER NOTICE for users on the Fauquier Water System. The system is located in the community of Fauquier, on the east side of Lower Arrow Lake within RDCK Electoral Area K. The Needles Ferry landing is part of the Fauquier Water System.

The BOIL WATER NOTICE has been issued due to an emergency water main repair that requires depressurization of the water main. Water outages currently being experienced are anticipated to be resolved by 4:00 pm, September 28, 2021.

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) 352-8192 or visit our website at www.rdck.ca/water.

Click here to view a print-friendly PDF version.

Boil Water Notice issued for the Edgewood water system

Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) has issued a BOIL WATER NOTICE for users on the Edgewood Water System. The system is located in the community of Edgewood, within RDCK Electoral Area K. Edgewood is on the west side of Lower Arrow Lake off of Highway 6 between Nakusp and Vernon.

The BOIL WATER NOTICE has been issued due to the need to increase system capacity through additional untreated water from the decommissioned wells to meet the demand of wildfire mitigation efforts in the community.

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) 352-8192 or visit our website at www.rdck.ca/water. 

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Boil Water Notice issued for the Duhamel Water System

Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) has issued a BOIL WATER NOTICE for users on the Duhamel Creek Water System. The system is located in the community of Duhamel on the north shore of the west arm of Kootenay Lake approximately 13 km northeast of Nelson. Duhamel is within RDCK Electoral Area F.

 The BOIL WATER NOTICE has been issued due to adverse water sampling test results indicating the presence of total coliforms and E. coli.

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) 352-8192 or visit our website at www.rdck.ca/water. 

Click here for a print-friendly PDF

Boil Water Notice issued for Rosebery Highlands Water System

Nelson, BC: Due to low water levels in the reservoir the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) has issued a Boil Water Notice for the Rosebery Highlands Water System.

The Boil Water Notice has been issued due to low water levels in the reservoir impacting the effectiveness of chlorine disinfection through decreased contact time. Reservoir levels have since recovered. The notice has been issued as a precautionary measure because of the reduction of chlorine’s ability to remove or inactivate viruses for a short period of time.

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, or water that has been filtered through a well-maintained treatment device.  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. 

To sign up for our water notifications service, in order to receive notices about your water system’s water quality, system maintenance activities, and water conservation by telephone call and/or text message, please call 1-833-223-2662.

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Boil Water Notice issued and Water Conservation Measures rescinded for the Fauquier Water System

Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) has issued a BOIL WATER NOTICE for users on the Fauquier Water System. The system is located in the community of Fauquier, within RDCK Electoral Area K. Fauquier is on the east side of Lower Arrow Lake.  The Needles Ferry landing is part of the Fauquier Water System.

The BOIL WATER NOTICE has been issued due to the need for bypassing the water treatment plant to increase system capacity and meet the demand of wildfire mitigation efforts in the community.

The Stage 2 Water Conservation Measures currently in place for Fauquier have also been rescinded so that properties may utilize water as directed by emergency operations crews.

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) 352-8192 or visit our website at www.rdck.ca/water.

Click here for a print-friendly PDF version.

Board Meeting – September 2021 Highlights

Amendment to Kootenay Lake West Transit Service Establishment

To address the growth in ridership and the demand for more services, the Board approved an amendment to the Kootenay Lake West Transit Service, which proposes a 3-to-5% increase in the cost of operations over the next five years. This ensures the sustainability of public transit in the region, affords the Board options in the Transit Future Services Plan, allows for the ability to extend or add routes, and addresses contract increases with NextGen Transit taking over as the new operating partner.

RDCK investigating the potential acquisition of parkland in Krestova

The Board has directed staff to investigate the opportunity to acquire private land, totalling approximately 134 acres in Krestova, Electoral Area H, as regional parkland for use by local communities for outdoor recreation and nature appreciation. Staff will consider a number of factors, including the context of the overarching Regional Parks Plan, the desire of the local community, and the financial investment and ongoing operational needs.

The RDCK welcomes input from the public in order to gauge initial levels of community interest and to support next steps. Click here to learn how you can provide feedback.

New Fire Chiefs appointed at North Shore Fire Department and Slocan Fire Department

The Board has approved the appointment of Jay Marshall as Fire Chief of the North Shore Volunteer Fire Department. He has served as Acting Fire Chief since December 2019 and has been a member of the RDCK Fire Services since 1991, first with the Balfour-Harrop Volunteer Fire Department and then with the North Shore Fire Department.

The Board also approved the appointment of Devin Lindsay as Fire Chief of the Slocan Volunteer Fire Department. He has served as Acting Fire Chief since February 2021 and previously served as Deputy Fire Chief with the Slocan Volunteer Fire Department.

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Board Meeting – October 2021 Highlights

Moment of Silence for John Beerbower

The Board acknowledged the passing of John Beerbower with a moment of silence. The Electoral Area E Alternate Director was heavily involved in local matters as a dedicated and committed member of the community. The RDCK Board offers their condolences to his partner Coby and daughter Laurel.

Board supports expansion of local bus service

The Board will send a letter to Mountain Man Mike’s Bus Service in support of its service expansion plan to streamline service from Vancouver through the Okanagan. Kootenays and on to Calgary. Public support for expansion is required by the Passenger Transportation Board. Mountain Man Mike’s Bus Service has filled the void left when Greyhound Canada eliminated all domestic routes in Western Canada three years ago. Currently Mountain Man Mike’s offer transportation between Kaslo and Vancouver and Kaslo and Calgary with stops in between.

Proposed amendments for 570 Johnstone Road do not pass

The Board approved no further action be taken in regard to the proposed amendments to Electoral Area ‘F’ Official Community Plan (OCP) Bylaw and the RDCK Zoning Amendment Bylaw for 570 Johnstone Road. Formerly the North Shore Elementary School, the property was recently purchased by Valid Manufacturing with the intention of changing the OCP and zoning from institutional to a proposed new industrial high tech zone.

No further action means the owner of the property cannot reapply for the same bylaw amendment or make an amendment to the application for six months.

Community opposition to the proposed amendments was significant. At a public hearing in late September, 56 people attended, including the applicant. The majority of the verbal submissions (53 of 56 submissions) were opposed to the application for the proposed amendments. Public concerns included future use of the property, safety concerns on Johnstone Road, water capacity, noise and light pollution, rural character and public use of property.

Galena Trail Cable Car restoration contract

The Board awarded the Galena Trail Cable Car Restoration to Wildland Recreation Solutions to a maximum value of $177,870. The Galena Trail, popular with hikers and bike riders, is a 13 km trail running from Rosebery to Three Forks. The cable car runs across Carpenter Creek, allowing for easy crossing to continue along the trail. The cable car’s anchor system was damaged during spring freshet in 2020 and has been closed ever since. The project completion is set for mid-July 2022.

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Board Meeting – November 2021 Highlights

Aimee Watson and Walter Popoff return as Chair and Vice-Chair of RDCK Board of Directors

The RDCK Board acclaimed Area D Director Aimee Watson as the Chair of the Board of Directors for 2022. Watson has served as the RDCK Area D Director since 2014 and enters her fourth term as Chair.

As well, the RDCK Board re-elected Area H Director Walter Popoff as Vice-Chair for 2022. Popoff has served as the RDCK Area H Director since 2008 and enters his third term as Vice-Chair.

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

RDCK adopts vaccination policy

The RDCK Board adopted a COVID-19 vaccination policy. This policy is an enhanced safety measure with the objective of mitigating the potential for spread of COVID-19. All employees and fire service volunteers must provide proof they are fully vaccinated by December 3, 2021 or they will be required to meet enhanced safety measures to be able to work inside at any RDCK worksite (facilities, offices, fire departments).

The policy balances the diverse needs of RDCK employees and the community, but ensures nobody will lose their job based on their decisions or personal situations related to vaccination.

Regional FireSmart Program

The RDCK Board endorses the application made to the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) Community Resiliency Investment Program in order to operate a Regional FireSmart Program in 2022. The total amount of the grant request is $603,225. The funds will go towards providing a strong and robust FireSmart program, hire a wildfire mitigation specialist to deliver the FireSmart and Neighbourhood Recognition programs, coordinate and participate in community FireSmart resiliency committees, and provide wildland firefighter training to RDCK regional fire services.

The Board also approved the commitment of $20,000 to the Regional FireSmart Program from Rural Administration.

Respectful Behaviour Bylaw

The RDCK Board direct staff to prepare a bylaw for Respectful Behaviour for all RDCK worksites, including engagement with RDCK workers performing their duties on private property and at public meetings.

Over the last 20 months there has been an increase in the number of incidents involving members of the public behaving inappropriately. Incidents range from vandalism to violence to harassment; incidents that jeopardize the safety and well being of residents, visitors and RDCK staff.

The goal of this bylaw is to ensure better service and a safe, healthy, respectful environment for residents that used RDCK facilities. It will also allow the RDCK to fulfill its obligation to provide a workplace that is free of violence, bullying and harassment.

Recreation Commission No.10 Funding

The RDCK Board direct staff to repeal and replace Portion of Electoral Area E (Recreation Commission No.10) Recreational Program Bylaw to increase the annual requisition limit for the service area. Currently taxation generates only $1,000 for recreation in Procter, Harrop, Balfour and Queens Bay. The annual requisition limit for the service area will increase to $0.0757 per $1,000 assessed value, which will fund expanded recreation programming in the service area. Approval for the taxation increase will be sought by the alternative approval process as outlined in the Local Government Act. This process will allow the residents affected by the taxation increase to provide their input to the RDCK.

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Board Meeting – May 2021 Highlights

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Kirk Duff appointed to the RDCK Board of Directors

Kirk Duff, the newly elected Mayor of Castlegar, has been appointed to the RDCK Board of Directors. The Board ratified the decision based on the recommendation from the City of Castlegar. Councillor Dan Rye, who previously represented the City of Castlegar on the Board, has been appointed as the Alternate Board Director for the two-year term ending November 30, 2022.

RDCK supports recreation programming in Nakusp

The Board approved the RDCK enter into a contribution agreement with the Village of Nakusp for the purposes of funding a recreation program for one year from June 1, 2021 to May 31, 2022. The goal of the funding (up to $10,000) will be used to increase recreation programming and encourage the use of recreation facilities in the area.

Alternative Approval Process not approved for Erickson Water Service Loan Authorization

Elector approval was not obtained in the Alternative Approval Process for the Erickson Water Service Loan Authorization Bylaw. If adopted, the bylaw would have approved the borrowing of $3,729,100 to install universal metering for water demand management and complete the distribution upgrades of the water line replacement to the Erickson water system. The staff will now review potential next steps, including the possibility of a referendum to determine the direction the community wants to take with the water system upgrades.

Riondel and District Curling Club takes over ownership of ice plant from the RDCK

The Riondel and District Curling Club has taken over ownership of the ice plant located at the Riondel Curling Club. The Board approved the sale of the ice plant to the curling club who previously signed a long-term lease agreement to operate the RDCK facility. The transfer of ownership assigns the responsibilities for operating and maintaining the ice plant to the club, as well as ensuring long term sustainability of curling in Riondel, while managing RDCK risks.

Columbia Basin Trust – Community Initiatives Program/Affected Areas Program Grant Funding

The Board approved the 2021 Columbia Basin Trust Community Initiatives and Affected Area Program (CIP/AAP) grant funding. A total of $1,488,018 in funding will be allocated to 265 different project proposals. CLICK HERE for a complete list of all the recipients of CIP/AAP funding. The programs support local projects that provide additional value to Basin communities, and that benefit the broad community and public good.

Housing Action Plan – Next Steps

Safe, affordable and inclusive housing is a major concern across the RDCK. Last year, the RDCK completed a regional housing needs assessment. The report describes the current and anticipated housing needs throughout our communities. The next step is to implement the assessment which will identify what is happening and who it is happening to as far as our housing needs. As a result, the Board is directing staff to pursue various options to support affordable housing in our region, including:

• Zone and incentivize infill (permitting properties to have flexible housing, i.e. secondary suites and to determine where infill housing can be further supported)
• Support not for profit housing providers (find out how local government can support their efforts)
• Facilitate non-market development or underutilized or vacant land (provide land or facilitate land transfer to non-profit developer to develop affordable housing)
• Create a housing action plan (translate housing needs within the community into solutions)
• Investigate housing authorities (creating a housing organization can help provide and manage non-market housing stock that is for rent or purchase)

East Shore Connectivity Project

The Board awarded Columbia Basin Broadband Corporation the contract for project management services related to the East Shore Connectivity Project. This project, which will start immediately, will connect the East Shore of Kootenay Lake that either had no or low access to high speed internet. A fibre optic infrastructure will be deployed throughout the communities of Wynndel, Riondel, Boswell and the Electoral Area A region. High speed internet will help to connect residents, enable businesses to remain competitive in a global economy, and support education.

New fibre optic link to be installed at Passmore Fire Hall

The Board accepted the proposal from Columbia Wireless to install a fibre optic link at the Passmore Fire Hall. The new link up will help to provide better service to residences and businesses up the Slocan Valley until Columbia Wireless is able to connect to the new fibre optic backbone being constructed by Columbia Basin Trust through Columbia Basin Broadband Corporation. This new link up will improve emergency communications at the Passmore Fire Hall, while also increasing connectivity and reliability to the entire Slocan Valley, benefiting businesses and those residents working from home.

Board Meeting – March 2021 Highlights

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March 18, 2021

RDCK Adopts Five-Year Financial Plan

The RDCK Board adopted its 2021 – 2025 Financial Plan Bylaw, an annual requirement which must be completed by March 31. This year’s budget was focused on necessary support for RDCK’s core services, while trying to ensure the impact to the local taxpayer was limited during the pandemic. Many costs have been deferred to 2022 and the vast majority of the RDCK’s 180 services will see little to no increase, however core services such as fire and resource recovery face increasing pressures and costs, and do have tax increases in 2021. 

The RDCK hosted eight virtual public meetings through February and March which allowed the public in our various sub regions to comment and provide feedback on the five year Financial Plan.

RDCK to Facilitate Land Acquisition Around Cottonwood Lake Regional Park

The Board approved the RDCK facilitating the purchase of the remaining portion of the property around Cottonwood Lake Regional Park on behalf of the Cottonwood Lake Preservation Society. The RDCK will enter a grant contribution agreement with Columbia Basin Trust for $60,000 and Fish and Wildlife Compensation Program for $75,000. The RDCK will purchase the property and hold until the property is transferred to a non-profit conservation society. The land will be protected under conservation values in perpetuity.

North Kootenay Lake Rural Recovery Project

The Board approved the RDCK enter into a contribution agreement with the Province for the North Kootenay Lake Rural Recovery Project. The project will receive a one time grant under the Community Economic Recovery Infrastructure Program (CERIP) Rural Economic Recovery Stream in the amount of $197,413. The funds will go towards providing direct support to businesses in North Kootenay Lake through strengthening supply chains, incubating agricultural capacity and the adoption of digital marketing and e-commerce.

Feasibility Study Approved for Flood Prevention Services for Parts of Electoral Area G

The Board approved staff to prepare a report investigating the feasibility of creating a service for flood prevention within parts of Eric Creek and Salmo River in Electoral Area G. Local residents are concerned by increased flooding in the area and would like to know how to best protect their properties and what the cost of remediation would be.

Erickson Water Service Loan Authorization

The Board direct staff to proceed with obtaining approval of the electors within the Erickson Water Distribution Service Area for long-term borrowing in the amount of $3,729,100. The money will be used for a universal metering project. 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.

Nelson Public Library Feasibility Study

The Board direct staff to research the costs, options, processes and the public communications plan for establishing contribution service in Electoral Area E to provide funding to the Nelson Public Library commencing in 2022.

Board Meeting – June 2021 Highlights

Click here for a print-friendly PDF version.

Richard Cannings joined meeting from Ottawa

South Okanagan-West Kootenay Member of Parliament Richard Cannings joined the board meeting virtually from Ottawa. Having represented the riding since 2015, Cannings shared with the Board what he is currently working on and answered questions from Directors on issues that most affect residents in the RDCK including: affordable housing, broadband connectivity, and climate accountability.

Board approved funding recommended by the Community Sustainable Living Advisory Committee

On recommendation from the Community Sustainability Living Advisory Committee (CSLAC) the Board approved annual funding of $15,000 to the Central Kootenay Food Policy Council. They work with local government, organizations and businesses across Central Kootenay to foster a vibrant, healthy food economy for the region that also provides healthy food to those who need it.

Feasibility Study approved for the Grohman Creek Docking Society

Situated on the north side of the West Arm of Kootenay Lake in Electoral Area ‘F’, the Grohman Creek neighbourhood only has year-round access to their properties by boat. With changes to the Hall Street pier, the Board approved up to $15,000 for a feasibility study to hire a consultant to examine the most suitable solution for private moorage and parking facilities on the Nelson-side or elsewhere along the West Arm.

Regional Invasive Species Strategy

The Board directed staff to create a proposal for an implementation plan of the draft Regional Invasive Species Strategy. The strategy supports a coordinated approach to invasive species prevention and management, by improving regional organizational capacity, as well as awareness and community engagement. Invasive species such as knotweed, can have social impacts (health and safety risks for humans and domestic animals), ecological impacts (outcompete native plants and increase vulnerability of species at risk), and economic impacts (damage to crops and infrastructure).

Board approved the release of 2020 Statement of Financial Information Report

The Board approved the release of the 2020 Statement of Financial Information (SOFI) Report. In accordance with the Financial Information Act, the RDCK must make the SOFI available to the public each year. The purpose of the financial reporting is to ensure the transparency and accountability of the local government system. Visit the RDCK website to look at the 2020 SOFI report: https://www.rdck.ca/assets/Administration/Documents/2020_RDCK_SOFI_Report-Signed.pdf

Board Meeting – July 2021 Highlights

OCP and zoning bylaw amendment for 570 Johnstone Rd. referred to a public hearing

After completing public consultation of the official community plan (OCP) and zoning bylaw amendment for 570 Johnstone Road in Electoral Area ‘F’, the Board has given first and second reading of the bylaw and referred it to a public hearing, chaired by Electoral Area ‘F’ Director Tom Newell.

The property is currently zoned as institutional by the RDCK, which allows for uses such education facilities, community halls, churches, hospitals and cemeteries. The applicant seeks to change the OCP to industrial and the zoning designation to a new industrial high tech zone in order to enable office space for their engineering team and parts and assembly related to electronics.

The public hearing is expected to be held in September.

Board supports new BC Transit initiatives

Based on the recommendation from the West Kootenay Transit Committee, the Board will write a letter on behalf of the RDCK to BC Transit recommending the City of Nelson as a participant in the Battery Electric Bus Pilot Program. Battery Electric Buses are a part of BC Transit’s low carbon fleet program and the next step in the program is the deployment of 10 electric buses in 2022.

The Board also approved fare free transit on the following service days: Earth Day (March 22), Go by bike week (May/June), Seniors Day (October 1) and Election Days (local, provincial and federal).

Resource Recovery Plan to be submitted to the BC Minister of Environment

Following a month of public consultation, the Board directed staff to finalize the Resource Recovery Plan and submit it to the BC Minister of Environment, without further amendments.

The Resource Recovery Plan is a roadmap for how the RDCK can reduce waste sent to landfill, address the climate emergency, and ensure that we have a sustainable waste management system that meets our needs for years to come. For more information on the plan, go to www.rdck.ca/rrp

Board approves Creston Valley Fire Services Project Charter

The Board approved the Creston Valley Fire Service Project Charter, which involves moving the management of the Canyon-Lister Fire Department (CLFD) from the RDCK to the Creston Fire Department (CFD). This will put three RDCK fire stations in the Creston valley (Canyon Lister, Creston and Wynndel-Lakeview) under the responsibility of the Town of Creston through contract with the RDCK. The CLFD has a long standing relationship working with the CFD.

The benefits of the project include overall operational effectiveness of fire and emergency service delivery that will enhance the approach and better ensure that all residents within the Creston Valley have access to a well resourced fire and emergency response. As well, improved and standardized training will be used across all three service areas and these three departments will operate under a common approach, utilizing common response protocols.

Click here for a print-friendly PDF version.

Board Meeting – January 2021 Highlights

Read the RDCK Board Meeting Highlights from January 21, 2021.