Committee Approves Five Policy Revisions
The Policy & Personnel Committee completed final review of five revised policies including director remuneration, correspondence procedures, and employee travel expenses - all moving forward to the Board for adoption.
Policies Receiving Final Approval
š¼ Director Remuneration and Extended Absence Policy
āļø Correspondence Policy for official communications
āļø Employee Travel and Expense Reimbursement Policy
Policies Receiving Final Approval
š Website Monitoring Policy for online presence
š Service Analysis Tool Kit Policy
š Employee Travel Policy amended - 14 day receipt deadline
š All policies approved as revised by committee
ā Policies now move to Board for final adoption
š Effective dates vary by individual policy
Should the Board adopt these revised policies?
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Next Steps
ā Board vote on policy adoption coming up
š Travel policy changes start June 1st
Did You Know Non-Profits Can Collect Bottles?
š¼ The RDKB has a 2015 policy that allows non-profit groups to collect refundable bottles from disposal sites to raise funds for community programs. This fundraising opportunity has been quietly helping local organizations since June 2015.
How the Bottle Collection Program Works
š¢ Non-profits can divert bottles from RDKB disposal sites
š° Groups keep all refund money for community projects
š Program runs through competitive RFPs every 2 years
How the Bottle Collection Program Works
š¦ RDKB provides collection bins as "last resort" option
š Successful groups sign binding agreements with RDKB
Official Policy Statement
"The Board of Directors of the Regional District of Kootenay Boundary permits non-profit groups to divert refundable beverage containers from disposal at RDKB disposal sites and retain the refunds."ā RDKB Policy Document
šāāļø Sports teams can fund equipment through bottle drives
š Community programs get alternative fundraising option
ā¾ļø Diverts containers from landfills to proper recycling
š RFP process ensures qualified groups handle collections
š± Supports both environmental and community goals
Should more people know about this fundraising program?
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š Policy Status: Approved June 18, 2015 and currently in effect
š Application Process: Non-profits can apply through RFP process every 2 years
š More Info: Contact RDKB Environmental Services to learn about participating in bottle collection fundraising
š $120K Grant for Fire Department Equipment
Emergency Preparedness Boost
RDKB seeks major UBCM Community Emergency Preparedness Fund grant to upgrade equipment and training across four rural fire departments without impacting local taxes.
šÆ UBCM Community Emergency Preparedness Fund opportunity
š¤ Regional application allows maximum $30K per fire department
š Requires Board resolution to proceed with grant application
š° Supplemental funding won't affect 2026 budget requisitions
ā” Addresses historically cost-prohibitive equipment and training needs
šØ KBRFR - $30,000
šļø Christina Lake Fire Rescue - $30,000
š² Beaverdell Volunteer Fire Department - $30,000
ā·ļø Big White Fire Department - $30,000
šÆ Total potential grant: $120,000
š”ļø Enhanced emergency response capabilities for rural communities
šø Zero impact on local taxpayer burden
š Access to training previously too expensive to provide
Should RDKB pursue this emergency services grant?
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Next Steps
Board will vote on grant application approval. Staff will manage application process and coordinate with Finance department.
Attend RDKB Board meetings to voice your support or concerns.
Should board directors get taxpayer-funded raises?
Regional District board compensation review recommends pay increases for Municipal Directors and Board Chair, funded by taxpayer dollars. The proposal would raise compensation to match regional medians.
š Annual inflation adjustments keep pace with cost of living
šļø Compensation reviewed every 4 years using 7 comparable regional districts
š° Current approach targets market median for board and staff pay
š Multiple compensation elements including stipends, meeting allowances, and expenses
šÆ Staff analysis shows mixed results across different director roles
Should director compensation increases be approved?
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Board meeting October 8, 2025 to vote on compensation increases. If approved, staff will prepare amended bylaw for future meeting.
šļø Regional District Approves Community Grants
Directors approved multiple community grants in September, including a $2,500 memorial bench project for the Lower Columbia Community Health Centre.
Grant Approvals by Directors
š° $4,000 approved Sept 17 by Ali Grieve
š° $1,500 approved Sept 23 by Linda Worley
š° $2,500 approved Sept 24 by Linda Worley for memorial bench
Grant Approvals by Directors
š° $500 approved Sept 25 by Linda Worley
š° $1,000 approved Sept 29 by Ali Grieve
š„ Memorial bench for Lower Columbia Community Health Centre
š Honors Jen Schmidt, volunteer who died from cancer
šŖ Provides outdoor meeting space for vulnerable patients
"One of our key volunteers, Jen Schmidt, who eventually became project lead, lost her battle with cancer just weeks before the opening of the CHC. Our team would like to install a memorial bench that could be used by our Social Workers who mentioned some of our most vulnerable patients aren't comfortable coming inside."ā Linda Sawchenko, Lower Columbia Community Health Centre
What community projects should receive priority funding?
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Grant approvals occurred in September 2025 by regional directors.
New Waste Penalties Coming
ā ļø Heads up waste facility users - The Regional District is adding 8 new violations that could cost you $200-$400 in fines. From unlawful recycling deposits to property damage, these new enforcement rules aim to crack down on facility misuse.
ā»ļø Unlawful deposit of recyclable materials ($200-$400)
š« Bringing non-permitted or prohibited waste ($200-$400)
ā£ļø Unlawful deposit of controlled/hazardous waste ($200-$400)
š Unlawful entry to facilities ($200-$400)
š° Unlawfully removing materials or damaging property ($200-$400)
š¦ Streamlined enforcement ahead - The Regional District is also adding the Manager of Infrastructure and Sustainability as a new enforcement officer who can issue penalties and handle disputes. This expands who can write tickets and aims to speed up the violation process.
Are these waste facility penalties reasonable?
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š Regional District Board Meeting - October 8, 2025
This bylaw amendment gets first, second AND third reading at the same meeting - meaning it could be adopted immediately. Want to weigh in on enforcement approach or penalty amounts? Attend the meeting or contact your regional director before October 8th.
šØ New Waste Disposal Fines Coming
The Regional District is adopting Bylaw 1923 to enforce new solid waste violations with fines up to $400. From illegal dumping to damaging facilities - these rules now have teeth.
šļø New Solid Waste Management Bylaw created violations without enforcement power
āļø Current Bylaw Notice Enforcement system couldn't issue fines for waste infractions
š§ Amendment adds 8 new waste violations to enforceable schedule
š„ Streamlines dispute process by expanding screening officer roles
š Updates needed to make new waste rules legally enforceable
ā»ļø Unlawful deposit of recyclable materials: $200-$400 fine
š« Deposit of prohibited waste materials: $200-$400 fine
ā ļø Unlawful deposit of controlled waste: $200-$400 fine
š Unlawful entry to waste facilities: $200-$400 fine
š° Damage to Regional District property: $200-$400 fine
The amendment also adds the Manager of Infrastructure and Sustainability as a Screening Officer to handle bylaw violation disputes more efficiently. This administrative change aims to streamline the appeals process for residents.
Should waste rule violations carry fines?
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Board Meeting: October 8, 2025
Status: Proposed amendment bylaw ready for consideration
Process: Requires First, Second and Third Readings, then Adoption
Timeline: All readings and adoption could occur at the October 8 meeting
Province Delays Mattress Recycling Rules
BC government has decided not to regulate mattresses at this time under Extended Producer Responsibility rules. The delay is due to current global economic climate and affordability concerns from British Columbians.
š³ļø Regional District advocated for mattress recycling regulation in September
ā»ļø Extended Producer Responsibility makes manufacturers handle disposal costs
š° Without regulation, residents pay disposal fees instead of producers
š Policy delay affects BC's circular economy progress
š Other products still planned: electronics, medical sharps, auto parts
"The current global economic climate has made it difficult to get by, and we are listening to concerns from British Columbians about affordability challenges. This has helped inform our decision not to regulate mattresses at this time."ā Hon. Tamara Davidson, Minister of Environment and Parks
This provincial response was received by the Regional District and is included as Attachment # 5.5.b in the agenda package for the Chair and Directors to consider.
Immigration Program Seeks Regional Support
Community Futures Central Kootenay is presenting to the RDKB Board about their Rural Community Immigration Pilot program and making a funding request. Executive Director Andrea Wilkey will provide an update on the program status.
š¢ Community Futures Central Kootenay is presenting program update
š©āš¼ Executive Director Andrea Wilkey serving as spokesperson
š Delegation item scheduled for Board consideration
š° Organization making funding request to RDKB
š Rural Community Immigration Pilot program focus of presentation
š° Community Futures seeking financial support from RDKB
š Andrea Wilkey will present program updates and funding requirements
šÆ Specific funding amount and use details to be presented
šļø Delegation scheduled for October 8, 2025 meeting
š¢ Board will consider funding request after presentation
October 8, 2025 at 1:00 PM - RDKB Board of Directors meeting via Teams videoconferencing. Executive Director Andrea Wilkey will present the delegation about the Rural Community Immigration Pilot program and funding request. Public can attend to hear this presentation.
Should a Big White restaurant add entertainment?
Fourth Ace Bar & Smokehouse is seeking approval for patron participation entertainment (dancing, karaoke, trivia nights) at their Big White location - but it's directly below 49 residential units in Snow Ghost Inn.
š¤ Entertainment would include dancing, karaoke, open mic nights, and trivia
š The establishment operates inside Snow Ghost Inn with residents living above
ā RDKB Board previously rejected this application in May 2025
š New consultation required because previous public input didn't meet provincial standards
š Entertainment must end by midnight under provincial rules
āļø Hand-delivered notices to buildings within 100m (Canada Post strike backup)
š Development notification sign posted on the property
š„ Board will consider resident feedback at October 29th meeting
š Written comments must be specific to entertainment endorsement application
āļø Provincial liquor branch will make final licensing decision
Do you support entertainment licensing for Fourth Ace?
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Next Steps: RDKB Board meets October 8th to decide on consultation process. If approved, public consultation period will follow. A Board meeting is scheduled for October 29th. Submit written comments during any consultation period or attend meetings to participate.
$3M Aquatic Centre Overhaul Seeks Funding
The RDKB is applying for a major grant to transform Grand Forks Aquatic Centre with solar power, energy efficiency upgrades, and accessibility improvements. The project could be 100% grant-funded, but taxpayers would cover any cost overruns beyond the $400k contingency.
Why This Upgrade is Needed
š Aquatic Centre is RDKB's largest energy consumer and greenhouse gas emitter
āæ Current facility has significant accessibility barriers identified in 2021 study
š” Heating and ventilation systems need modernizing and upgrading
Why This Upgrade is Needed
š§ Previous attempt in 2024 failed when no contractors bid within budget
š° Existing federal Green Buildings grant money remains available to stack with new funding
Solar-Powered Future for the Pool
āļø Solar thermal system as primary heating source with rooftop solar panels
š„ Smart heating hierarchy: solar first, then heat pumps, boilers as backup only
šØ New air handling systems with renewable pre-heating throughout facility
Solar-Powered Future for the Pool
ā” On-site electricity generation to offset facility power consumption
š± Integrated approach advances pool systems 20 years into the future
Making the Pool Accessible for Everyone
š» Universal accessible washroom created in main lobby area
šØ Emergency systems upgraded with accessible fire pulls and visual alarms
š¢ New reception desk with accessible height section and knee space
Making the Pool Accessible for Everyone
šŗļø Complete wayfinding overhaul with pictograms, braille, and high-contrast design
āæ Comprehensive barrier removal to serve residents of all ages and abilities
Project Costs and Funding
Should RDKB pursue this major aquatic centre upgrade?
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RDKB Board Meeting: October 8, 2025 - Board will vote on supporting this grant application. Project would take 24 months to complete if funding approved. This is part of the new Canada Community Building Fund with up to $7M available for eligible projects.
šØ Is Our Infrastructure Ready for Disasters?
The RDKB wants to spend $1.5 million to assess how well our critical infrastructure - water systems, fire halls, emergency services - can handle emergencies like floods, fires, and power outages. This comprehensive study would identify vulnerabilities and create action plans to protect essential services our communities depend on.
What Counts as Critical Infrastructure?
š¢ 39 RDKB-owned critical assets need assessment under provincial law
š Assets categorized as large, medium, or small infrastructure
š Defined by the Emergency and Disaster Management Act
What Counts as Critical Infrastructure?
šļø Risk assessments required to identify vulnerabilities
š Mitigation strategies needed for each asset type
The Price Tag
The Financial Reality: While this is a 100% grant application (no upfront taxpayer cost), the RDKB Board must agree to cover any cost overruns beyond the grant amount. The work is legally required under the Emergency and Disaster Management Act - the question is whether to do it now with grant funding or later with taxpayer money.
Should the Board support this grant application and potential cost overruns?
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Board Decision: October 8, 2025 meeting
Grant Status: Application submitted to UBCM Strategic Priorities Fund - Board resolution needed to support the application and agree to cover any cost overruns
$5.9M Christina Lake Fire Hall Upgrade Proposed
Christina Lake Fire Rescue is seeking a massive expansion to address overcrowding and modernize their 1997 facility. The current 156 mĀ² space struggles to accommodate 20-25 firefighters, forcing the department to rely on a temporary trailer.
š Current fire hall built in 1997 - increasingly cramped for modern operations
š„ 20-25 paid-on-call firefighters sharing undersized administrative space
šļø ATCO trailer added as temporary solution creates operational fragmentation
š Growing service demands and staffing needs outpacing facility capacity
š¢ 2,000 sq ft administrative expansion with dedicated sleeping quarters
ā” Solar panel installation and energy efficiency upgrades
š§ Rainwater collection system to reduce water consumption
š§ Building envelope and insulation modernization
šØāš Expanded training areas and proper office space for firefighters
Should we invest in upgraded fire safety infrastructure?
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RDKB Board Meeting: October 8, 2025
Board will vote on supporting this UBCM Strategic Priorities Fund application. Grant applications were due September 12, 2025 - this vote provides required board endorsement for the submission.
š„ Fire Protection Boost Coming
With wildfire risks increasing across the region, KBRFR is moving fast to secure three new wildland fire engines by April 2026 - a full year ahead of schedule.
The $800,000 investment will replace one aging 2006 vehicle and add two brand new units to protect communities in Rossland, Trail, and Fruitvale.
š Better equipment = Better protection for your family and property
š Three wildland fire engines planned for Rossland, Trail, and Fruitvale stations
š One unit replaces current 2006 Bush truck that's past its prime
ā Two units are brand new additions to expand fire protection capacity
šØ Engines will also respond to First Responder and Rescue calls, reducing wear on larger trucks
š¦ No additional firefighting equipment needed - KBRFR already has the gear
š° $800,000 total budget already allocated in 2026 five-year financial plan
š Early procurement protects against cost escalation and supply chain delays
ā° Ordering now ensures delivery before 2026 fire season begins
š Complex international markets make early ordering smart financial planning
ā No 2025 expenses - this is forward approval for 2026 spending
Do you support this $800,000 investment in wildland fire protection for Rossland, Trail, and Fruitvale? What fire safety improvements matter most to your community?
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Official Votes
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Next Steps: The RDKB Board of Directors will vote on this procurement at their next meeting.
How to Participate:
- Attend the board meeting to share your thoughts
- Contact your regional director
- Submit written feedback to the RDKB office
Timeline:
- Board decision: Upcoming meeting
- If approved: Engines ordered in 2025
- Delivery: April 2026, ready for fire season
$117,750 for Waste Plan Update?
š³ļø Big Decision Alert: RDKB Board is spending $117,750 of taxpayer money to hire consultants for updating our 20-year-old solid waste management plan.
š° What you're paying for: Complete overhaul of how we handle garbage, recycling, and organic waste across all 8 municipalities and 5 rural areas.
š Happening: August 27th Board meeting - this affects all 33,000 residents!
š What it is: Legal blueprint for handling ALL waste in RDKB - from your household garbage to business recycling
ā° Why now: Current plan from 2005 is 20 years old - BC government recommends updates every 10 years
šÆ The goal: Meet provincial targets of 350kg waste per person annually by 2020 (we're currently at 520kg)
š± New focus: Zero waste approaches, circular economy, and keeping organics out of landfills
āļø Legal requirement: Provincial Environmental Management Act mandates these plans for all regional districts
š¢ Who's hired: Sperling Hansen Associates Inc. - specialized waste management consultants
šµ Total cost: Maximum $117,750 plus taxes (your tax dollars at work)
š Timeline: 18-24 months to complete the entire update process
š£ļø Your voice: Extensive public consultation through surveys, meetings, and online platforms
š Deliverables: New 10-year waste strategy, cost analysis, and implementation roadmap
What's most important to you in our regional waste plan: Lower costs for residents, better recycling programs, keeping organics out of landfills, or improved rural waste services?
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š Board Decision: August 27, 2025 meeting
š£ļø Get involved: Public consultation starts early August with surveys and meetings through RDKB's "Join the Conversation" platform
š You're affected if you live in: Trail, Grand Forks, Rossland, Warfield, Montrose, Fruitvale, Midway, Greenwood, or any electoral area
ā¹ļø Contact: 250-512-3963 or rdkb.com
Remote Waste Crisis Needs Solution
šļø Idabel Lake's waste bins could lose maintenance services
The Regional District faces a choice: approve an 8% rate increase for bin maintenance, or risk having no waste management at this popular recreation site.
The contractor threatens to walk away without the increase.
š ļø Philip Petit has maintained Idabel Lake's unattended waste bins since 2022
āļø Services include site monitoring, snow plowing, and waste transportation to Kelowna
š§ Current 3-year contract expires August 31, 2025
š Increased usage at the remote site requires more frequent collection trips
šļø Remote location makes finding alternative contractors extremely difficult
š ļø Why this contractor holds all the cards:
ā¢ Insurance nightmare: 4 companies refused coverage for this remote site ā¢ RDKB pays $5,000/year insurance + $10,000 deductible risk ā¢ No other contractors want this challenging location ā¢ Service disruption would impact outdoor recreation
Should the Regional District approve the 8% rate increase to maintain waste services at Idabel Lake, or explore alternatives like seasonal service or user fees?
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š RDKB Board Meeting: August 27, 2025
Staff recommends approving the contract extension. The Board will vote on: ā¢ 3-year contract with Philip Petit (Sept 2025 - Aug 2028) ā¢ New rates with 8% increase ā¢ Authorization to sign insurance agreements
šļø Attend virtually or in person to share your input
Should Crown Land Be Sold? šļø
A couple who has leased Crown land at Christina Lake since 1992 wants to purchase their 0.62-hectare waterfront property for permanent ownership.
š¤ But staff have concerns about sewage disposal, water quality impacts, and removing public land from community use.
āļø Your regional board is deciding whether to support or oppose the sale to FrontCounter BC.
š” The Dolemans have held a seasonal cottage lease since 1992 (expires 2030)
āµ Boat-access only property - 6.9km north of Christina Lake Welcome Centre
šļø Current use: 3-6 weeks summer + spring/fall setup for recreational cottage
šļø Existing structures: Single family dwelling (1992), dock, outhouse, accessory buildings
š Local planning commission supports the sale with development conditions
š Previous attempt in 2021 was supported locally but Province requested new application
ā ļø Too small: 0.62 hectares is below 1-hectare minimum for unserviced lots
š Sewage mystery: Claims only outhouse exists, but floor plans show bathroom with toilet/tub
š§ Water quality risk: No evidence of compliant septic system to protect Christina Lake
š No permits: 1992 dwelling built without building permits on record
šļø Steep terrain: Rocky slopes may not support proper water/sewer infrastructure
š Flood/setback concerns: Uncertain compliance with waterfront development rules
šļø Public land loss: Crown land permanently removed from potential public recreation/conservation
š Lake protection: Christina Lake water quality at risk from inadequate sewage systems
š Development pressure: Private ownership opens door to more intensive future development
š£ Community access: Waterfront area lost to private control vs community recreation
āļø Precedent setting: Decision impacts how similar Crown lease-to-purchase requests are handled
š Regulatory gaps: Highlights need for better oversight of existing unpermitted structures
Should the Regional District support selling Crown land to long-term leaseholders when there are environmental and regulatory concerns, or should public land be protected for community use?
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š Regional District Board Meeting - August 27, 2025
The board will decide whether to forward staff concerns to FrontCounter BC or add additional support/opposition comments.
š¤ Have your say: Contact your Area C director or attend the meeting.
ā¹ļø Final decision rests with the Province through FrontCounter BC.
š° $21M Federal Funding Opportunity
š¢ RDKB could secure major federal funding for three key infrastructure projects:
š Christina Lake Fire Hall expansion
š Grand Forks Aquatic Centre upgrades
š Regional infrastructure resilience study
The Strategic Priorities Fund offers up to 100% funding - potentially $7 million per project!
Board decides whether to apply for all three grants
šļø Federal Strategic Priorities Fund offers 10-year commitment for local infrastructure
šÆ Up to 100% funding available for eligible projects
šÆ Focuses on large-scale, regional impact, or innovative projects
š Maximum $7 million per project, 4 applications max per regional district
ā” Two streams: Capital Infrastructure and Capacity Building
š Christina Lake Fire Hall Expansion - Improve emergency response capacity and coverage
š Grand Forks Aquatic Centre Upgrades - Energy efficiency improvements and accessibility enhancements
š RDKB Infrastructure Assessment - Evaluate critical infrastructure resilience across the region
Which of these infrastructure projects do you think should be RDKB's top priority for federal funding: fire hall expansion, aquatic centre upgrades, or regional resilience assessment?
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š Board Decision Coming
Staff recommend applying for all three grants to maximize federal funding opportunities.
š£ļø Have Your Say:
- Contact your RDKB director
- Attend the board meeting
- Submit written comments
Corporate Vote Unweighted required to proceed with applications
Community Funding Decisions Ahead
š Should your tax dollars fund Christmas hampers for families in need?
š What about community events that bring neighbors together?
āæ Or accessibility ramps so everyone can participate in community life?
Council is deciding on $33,900 in grants to local organizations across multiple areas - from emergency equipment to holiday support programs.
š Trail United Church seeking support for Beaver Valley Christmas Hamper Program
š Big White Mountain Community Development Association planning their annual community event
š± Village of Midway developing a community garden project
š Rock Creek & Boundary Fair Association restocking emergency AED supplies
āæ Bridesville Community Club building accessibility ramp at their hall
š° $25,850 - Bridesville accessibility ramp (largest request)
š° $3,000 - Christmas hamper program for families in need
š° $2,000 each - Big White community event & Midway garden
š° $1,050 - Emergency AED equipment restocking
Which of these community programs do you think should be the highest priority for public funding, and why? Should taxpayer dollars support accessibility improvements, emergency preparedness, food security, or community events?
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Official Votes
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š Council Meeting: August 27th, 2025
š³ļø Vote Type: Participants Only Weighted Vote
š¬ How to Participate:
- Attend the council meeting
- Submit written comments
- Contact your area representative
š These grants support organizations across Areas A, E, Village of Midway, Rock Creek & Boundary, and Bridesville
Building Code Getting More Flexible? š
The Regional District of Kootenay Boundary wants to make building rules easier for property owners. They're proposing changes that could let you build small decks without permits and get clearer rules about tiny homes.
Council is deciding on Building Amendment Bylaw No. 1907 at their August 27th meeting - but do these changes actually help residents? š¤
Why These Changes Are Needed
šļø Current building code has confusing rules about tiny homes on wheels
š Property owners need clarity on when building permits are required
šļø Recreational property owners want more flexibility for small outdoor structures
Why These Changes Are Needed
āļø Tiny homes on wheels are now regulated as recreational vehicles under Motor Vehicle Act
š ļø Small deck projects often require expensive permits even for simple platforms
What's Actually Changing
ā Remove all tiny homes on wheels from building bylaw (they're now RVs)
ā Allow small decks under 10 square meters without building permits
š Decks must be under 600mm high and freestanding only
What's Actually Changing
š” Exemption limited to one small deck per property
š Residential use only, must still follow zoning rules
Real Benefits for Property Owners
šļø Build small platforms next to RVs at recreational properties
š° Save hundreds in permit fees for simple deck projects
ā±ļø Skip weeks of permit waiting for basic outdoor structures
Real Benefits for Property Owners
āæ Create accessible platforms for seniors and mobility needs
š More flexibility for cottage and cabin owners
Do you think removing building permit requirements for small decks (under 10 square meters) will help property owners, or should all construction require permits for safety?
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Next Steps & How to Participate
Council Decision: August 27, 2025 meeting
Process: Staff recommend three readings and adoption of Building Amendment Bylaw No. 1907
Participate: Attend council meeting, contact regional reps, or submit written comments
Impact: Changes take effect after adoption
š Will Area D Keep Animal Control Services?
Big changes coming to animal control in the Boundary region! šļø
After Grand Forks, Greenwood, and Area C all withdrew from the shared regional animal control service, Area D is going it alone with a new local-only service.
The question: Should Area D establish its own dedicated animal control program? š¤
šļø The old shared service operated under 1970s legislation that no longer meets current requirements
š All four original participants (Grand Forks, Greenwood, Area C, and Area D) requested to withdraw from the outdated system
šŖ Grand Forks, Greenwood, and Area C have already established their own separate animal control services
šÆ Only Area D wants to continue with regional district-provided animal control services
š¢ Area D will get its own dedicated "Area D/Rural Grand Forks Animal Control Service"
š Same services: dog licensing, stray animal pickup, dangerous dog enforcement
š Facilities: pounds, kennels, and animal containment facilities
š®āāļø Authority to seize, impound, and sell unlicensed dogs and animals running loose
š¤ Can still make agreements with other communities for shared services if needed
š° What it means for your taxes: Area D residents will now pay the full cost of animal control services instead of sharing costs with other communities. Funding comes from property taxes and service fees.
š Approval process: The bylaw needs three readings by the Regional District Board, then approval from the Inspector of Municipalities (4-6 weeks), before it can be adopted.
Do you support Area D establishing its own dedicated animal control service, even if it means Area D residents pay the full cost instead of sharing with other communities?
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š What happens next:
August 27, 2025 - Regional District Board meeting where Bylaw 1911 will receive first, second, and third readings
After Board approval - 4-6 week provincial review by Inspector of Municipalities
šļø How to participate: Attend the Board meeting or contact your Area D Director to share your views on this service transition.
š Big Change Coming to Christina Lake
Area C/Christina Lake is going solo on animal control services! š
After decades of sharing costs with Grand Forks, Greenwood, and Area D, Christina Lake will now run its own standalone service.
Why? All other partners have officially withdrawn from the shared service running since the 1970s.
šļø Original shared service started in 1976 with multiple communities
š Grand Forks, Greenwood, and Area D all formally withdrew
š¾ Only Christina Lake wants to continue animal control services
š Converting from shared service to standalone operation
š Requires new Bylaw No. 1912 with three council readings
š° What This Costs You
š Property taxes will cover annual costs (based on land/building values)
šµ Fees and charges may apply for specific services
š Dog licensing system will continue operating
š° What This Costs You
š¢ Service includes pounds, kennels, and animal facilities
š No longer sharing costs with other communities
Should Christina Lake proceed with its own standalone animal control service, or explore other alternatives like contracting with neighboring communities?
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Official Votes
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Next Steps: Council will vote on all THREE readings of Bylaw No. 1912 š
Your Voice Matters: ā¢ Contact your Area C Director before the vote ā¢ Attend the council meeting to observe ā¢ Submit written feedback about the service change
Required Approvals: Director consent + Inspector of Municipalities approval needed ā
š„ Big Safety News for Our Region
$1.18M FireSmart Grant Approved š°
The Regional District just received major provincial funding for wildfire prevention! Plus updates on emergency water treatment advocacy and the Record Ridge mine assessment.
Three important communications that affect our community's safety and development.
FireSmart Grant Details
š° $1,185,962.21 total funding from Province of BC
šļø Covers wildfire prevention and FireSmart community protection
š One-year project running until July 29, 2026
FireSmart Grant Details
š Must coordinate with BC Wildfire Service officials
š Includes fuel management, community planning, and emergency preparedness
š Special programs for seniors and vulnerable populations
š§ Emergency Water Security Initiative
Village of Lions Bay asks BC municipalities to support a UBCM resolution for provincial emergency water treatment plants.
The Ask: Province should acquire 1-3 portable plants (500K gal/day) for wildfire water contamination emergencies.
Why: Small communities can't afford treatment systems but face growing wildfire risks.
āļø Record Ridge Mine Assessment Decision
"The Record Ridge Mine will NOT be designated as a reviewable project under Section 11 of the Act"ā Kelly Northcott, BC Environmental Assessment Office
š Stay Informed & Get Involved
These communications are part of Regional District Board agenda items for public information.
FireSmart Project: Must be completed by July 29, 2026 with extensive community safety improvements.
Next Steps: Attend Board meetings to learn more about how these decisions affect our region's safety and development.
Crown Land Approval Decision Made
šļø Should neighbors get Crown land approval with development conditions?
Christina Lake's Advisory Planning Commission just decided on Ken & Pam Doleman's Crown land application - with important strings attached for future development.
š Decision from August 5, 2025 APC meeting
š Ken & Pam Doleman applied for Crown land through FrontCounter BC
šļø Previous 2021 application stalled due to COVID-19
š Property has 1992-built structure with outhouse only
š§ No new development since acquisition - just maintenance
š§ Grey water pit currently on property
ā APC unanimously supported the application
š Future building permits must comply with Official Community Plan
š Waterfront 100 Development Permit area rules apply
šļø Floodplain Bylaw compliance required for development
š” Protects neighbors from unregulated growth
š Stay Informed About Local Development
Electoral Area C APC meets regularly at Christina Lake Welcome Centre.
šļø How to Get Involved:
- Attend monthly meetings
- Comment on applications
- Monitor Crown land decisions
August 5, 2025 meeting minutes now available