RDCK Adopts Five-Year Financial Plan
The Board of Directors adopted the 2026-2030 Financial Plan Bylaw, an annual requirement which must be completed by end of March each year. This year’s budget will see a 4.7% average increase in property taxes for RDCK residents, although a resident’s actual increase will vary depending on the Electoral Area or Municipality the resident lives in.
To allow the public in our various sub regions to comment and provide feedback on the five-year Financial Plan, the RDCK had a dedicated page (2026 Budget Planning) on its public engagement website, as well as hosted nine hybrid public information sessions (in-person and online), and one Special Budget Meeting over the last two months.
Residents are encouraged to review the financial plan and reach out to staff or Directors with questions.
Columbia Basin Trust to provide grant for RDCK parks system
The Board resolved to enter into a contribution agreement with Columbia Basin Trust for the Regional District of Central Kootenay Regional Park Enhancement Program. Columbia Basin Trust will provide a grant in the amount of $1,050,000 which can be used for enhancements in the 27 existing RDCK Regional Parks in Electoral Areas A, D, E, F, G, H, I, & J. The funding is intended to support inclusive and accessible enhancements, to reduce hazards and improve visitor awareness, and help parks adapt to climate change. The work must be completed in at least 60% of the 27 regional parks and be delivered within a two-year timeline.
Electoral Areas A, B, & C Dangerous and Aggressive Dog Control Service – Alternative Approval Process
The Board directed staff to proceed with obtaining approval of the electors in Electoral Areas A, B, and C for the adoption of the Dangerous and Aggressive Dog Control Service Establishment Bylaw. The new bylaw would establish a service to regulate dangerous and aggressive dogs. 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 matter. Following the formal initiation of the AAP process on May 7, 2026, the deadline for receipt of elector responses will be 4:00 pm on Monday, June 15.
Ootischenia Fire Department to purchase replacement engine
The Board approved the purchase of a used frontline fire engine, including upgrades, for the Ootischenia Fire Department for a total cost not exceeding $600,000. The Ootischenia Fire Department has been using a temporary replacement engine since its frontline fire engine experienced a catastrophic mechanical failure in 2024. The proposed unit from Rocky Mountain Phoenix is available for immediate purchase and can be inspected, refurbished, and commissioned within approximately 9-14 weeks.
Castlegar and District Arena and Walking Track Project
The Board approved Naming Rights and Wood Integration Guidelines for the Castlegar and District Arena and Walking Track Project, along with direction to incorporate these into the project’s procurement process. These decisions represent one step in a larger process, helping the RDCK develop a thoughtful and well-defined procurement approach that reflects community priorities and sets the project up for success.
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 move forward.
In simple terms, naming rights will be included as part of the project to help support the delivery of the project within the $15 million budget and reduce the financial impact on taxpayers. At the same time, the facility will remain a fully public asset, with all operating revenues staying with the RDCK. The approved guidelines set clear expectations for how naming rights will be managed.
The Board also approved guidelines that support a strong focus on design quality and sustainability, encouraging the use of wood in the facility’s construction and design. Proposals that demonstrate meaningful wood integration will be recognized in the evaluation process, while still ensuring overall value, functionality, and cost remain key priorities.
Click here to read both reports.
Erickson Water System – Residential Meter Contract
The Board directed staff to award the contract for the Erickson Water System (Electoral Area B) – Residential Meters Installation Contract Package 1 to Valhalla Hydrovac Ltd. for a maximum value of $328,637.41 plus GST. This is the first tender/contract package to install 506 meter pits in Erickson. The RDCK has broken these 506 pits into multiple tender/contract packages which makes geographical sense and enables RDCK staff to inspect and monitor construction. The installation of contract package 1 is estimated to start in the spring of 2026 with substantial completion by June 30, 2026.
Metering 506 pits is part of Phase 2 of the Erickson Water System Metering Project. This phase of the project is completely funded by the Provincial Meter Pilot Project. Erickson Water System regularly faces capacity challenges from increased water needs and reduced summertime flows in Arrow Creek. By installing meters and boosting demand-side management via leak location and repair, the RDCK is ensuring water is being used where it is intended.
Phase 1 of the metering project is well underway, which will result in 136 meters installed on industrial, agricultural, and institutional services along with agricultural land with five acres or more of irrigation privilege.
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 March reports in the Board minutes.