What's New

What's New

Audio is available for Regional District Board and Governance and Service Committee meetings - MP3 files will be available in the days following a Regional Board and Governance and Services Committee meeting. Please select the appropriate Board meeting date file or Governance and Services Committee meeting date file to link to the Audio MP3 file for that meeting. To listen you may require the free Windows Media Player

Stage 2 Outdoor Irrigation Restrictions Reminder

Water customers of the Regional District's six water systems are reminded that Stage 2 Outdoor Irrigation Restrictions are now in effect and last until September 15th, unless other restrictions are in place.

This restricts outdoor irrigation to two days each week, based on a property's address. There are differences in times for irrigation for customers with automated or manual irrigation. Please refer to the Outdoor Irrigation Guidelines for specific information.

(June 17, 2013)

North Westside Road Bulky Items Collection

North Westside Road residents within the Central Okanagan will have a special opportunity to dispose of your unwanted bulky items.

Wednesday June 26th, through Monday July 8th, during regular operating hours at the North Westside Road Transfer Station, you can dispose of large household items for a cost of $20 per truckload. This special disposal opportunity is available for residential items only: including appliances, scrap metal, lawn mowers and other motorized parts, household and lawn furniture. No hazardous waste (including computers, electronics, etc.) will be accepted. Unwanted fridges and freezers will be accepted at $15 per item, the Freon decommissioning charge. Cash or cheques only will be the only accepted method of payment.

The North Westside Road Transfer Station is open Monday, Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday from 8:00 am until 12:00 noon. It is located at the Sugarloaf Mountain/Whiteman Creek Forest Service Road. (Turn at the corner of Westside Road and Sugarloaf Mountain Forest Service Road.)

For more information and details about this collection please contact the Regional Waste Reduction Office at 250-469-6250 or email recycle@cord.bc.ca.

(June 14, 2013)

McKinley Landing Residents Plan for Emergencies

Residents living in the McKinley Landing area of Kelowna are taking steps to prepare for emergencies.

And the newly updated emergency plan for their area will be explained during a public meeting this Wednesday evening June 19^th at the McKinley Landing Fire Hall (Bennett Road) starting at 7:00 pm during the McKinley Landing Residents Association Annual General Meeting.

The Central Okanagan Regional Emergency Program has been working with the Association to update the Neighbourhood Emergency Plan. 250 laminated copies of the two page plan will be distributed to homes throughout the area over the next few weeks.

Regional Emergency Program Coordinator Jason Brolund says, “We’ve worked with other formalized neighbourhood groups and organizations in the past, who’ve taken the initiative to request help from us in crafting an emergency plan for their specific area. These plans are easy to read and simple to follow so that residents can keep them at home and refer to them in the event of an emergency.”

The plan provides tips on evacuation procedures as well as what residents can do to prepare their families for being self-sustaining for at least the first 72 hours of an emergency.

Like several areas across the region, there is only one road serving the McKinley Landing area. Brolund says, “McKinley Road being inaccessible wouldn’t necessarily indicate an emergency activation, however, this plan clearly identifies evacuation areas in the community in the event, alternative options are needed.”

Brolund adds, “We’re also working with the residents in the Trader’s Cove neighbourhood in the Central Okanagan West Electoral Area and will soon make their Emergency Plan available. Other neighbourhood associations that would like to discuss a neighbouhood emergency plan should contact our office at 250-469-8801.”

Even with a Neighbourhood Emergency Plan, all Central Okanagan residents are encouraged to make their own family plan. Knowing the Risks; Making a Plan and Preparing a Kit are three simple steps families should take.

Organizing your family should also include a visit to the Central Okanagan Emergency Operation Centre (EOC) website: cordemergency.ca. That’s where you can join more than 12 hundred other people who have already subscribed to receive email information updates whenever the EOC is activated in response to any emergency in the Central Okanagan.

A selection of emergency preparedness pamphlets is available at the Regional District of Central Okanagan office (1450 KLO Road in Kelowna) and the main Kelowna Fire Hall (2255 Enterprise Way).

(June 14, 2013)

Grassfire Threatened Gellatly Heritage Regional Park

A quick response by West Kelowna Fire Rescue snuffed out what could have been a costly blaze this afternoon.

A spark from a cutting saw being used to replace fencing around the Westside Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant off Gellatly Road is believed to have touched off the grassfire which spread very quickly.

West Kelowna firefighters were supported on the scene by RCMP, BC Ambulance, Regional Parks staff and an Inital Attack Crew from the BC Wildfire Management Branch.

The fire burned more than one and a half hectares uphill and was stopped less than a meter from wooden heritage buildings located in Gellatly Heritage Regional Park. Regional District Parks Staff recently cut back grass and weeds growing near the historical buildings and that defensible space helped to protect the heritage site.

The same park and buildings within it including a security contractor’s residence were saved by firefighters after being threatened during the July 2009 Glenrosa wildfire.

(June 12, 2013)

KLO Road Building Renovations - Temporary Service Impact

The interior of the Regional District of Central Okanagan administration building is undergoing a painting and floor covering renovation. The facility at 1450 KLO Road will remain open to serve the public while the work is underway.

Over the next six weeks, customers may find departments and staff working from temporary work spaces in different areas the KLO Road building.

Please be aware during the renovation period, staff may have delays in accessing some files and may have to make alternate arrangements to answer public inquiries.

The Regional District apologizes for any inconvenience and appreciates the patience of visitors during the construction.

(June 12, 2013)

Your Home, Your Future - Updating the Regional Growth Strategy and Aggregate Study

Thursday, June 20^th provides you with another opportunity for input on how best to manage future growth in the Central Okanagan.

You’re invited to attend an Information Open House from 4:30 to 7:30 pm at the Regional District of Central Okanagan, 1450 KLO Road in Kelowna. Information will be on display for drafts of the update to the Regional Growth Strategy and the Aggregate Supply and Demand Study, which will include a Site Suitability Checklist that local governments could use to guide their review and comments to the Province on future aggregate applications.

Information on both updates will be available online for those unable to attend the Open House by visiting www.futureok.ca. A questionnaire, based on the information presented will also be available for people to complete with their thoughts and comments by Wednesday, July 10^th.

The update to the Regional Growth Strategy will provide a coordinated and consistent approach for growth management across the region by establishing economic, environmental and social objectives to guide local governments in decisions to create a healthy and sustainable place to live, work and play.

The Regional Growth Strategy update is focusing on several key areas including Housing, Transportation, Regional Parks and Natural Areas, Economic Development and Climate Change.

Coordinator David Widdis says, “Another important part of the Regional Growth Strategy is the update of the Aggregate Supply and Demand Study. This reviews various sources of aggregate supplies throughout the Central Okanagan and forecasts demand for those products over the next 20, 50 and 100 years. It analyzes environmental and health related impacts of gravel pits and rock quarries such as groundwater, dust, noise and visual considerations. As well, a Site Suitability Assessment tool has been prepared with the goal of providing local governments with a consistent approach when they assess the suitability of aggregate extraction applications, which are ultimately considered by the Provincial Government.” Link to Study Reports and Documents

Widdis adds, “Since the original Growth Strategy was developed 13 years ago, we seen dramatic growth across the Central Okanagan. More than 256,000 people are projected to make this their home by 2031*, so it’s important that we have a meaningful Regional Growth Strategy to guide future decision making by local governments and help manage growth in a consistent manner.”

It is anticipated local governments and the Regional Board will consider the updated Regional Growth Strategy bylaw this fall.

More Information about the draft update of the Regional Growth Strategy and Aggregate Supply and Demand Study can be found online at futureok.ca or on the Regional District website at regionaldistrict.com/growth.

(June 12, 2013)

Recycle Your Old Phone Book

Now that the new Telus directories are hitting local doorsteps, the Regional Waste Reduction Office reminds you to recycle your old phone book.

Waste Reduction Facilitator Rae Stewart says phone books are being delivered to area residents and businesses in the Central Okanagan over the next few weeks.”Together, these phone books weigh over 166,000 kg. If all of them were tossed into the landfill they’d take up the equivalent space of 60 large dump trucks!”

Stewart says, “By recycling instead of tossing out your old phone book, you’re sharing in the solution - diverting waste from our limited landfill space and turning it into a valuable resource.” She adds many residents are now opting to get their information online, and if so, are reminded to unsubscribe from publications no longer required.

Stewart says the old books are mixed together with other household paper products at Cascades Recovery, our local recycling facility on Cambro Road. There the paper is compacted and shipped to numerous recycling mills who make products like roofing felt, more newspaper and paper egg cartons.

Simply put your old phone books in your cart for recycling and place your cart at the curb on your regular recycling collection day. You can also take phone books to your nearest recycling depot.

Kirschner Road Recycling Depot
Recycling Depot at the Glenmore Landfill
Westside Residential Waste Disposal and Recycling Center (off Asquith Road)

Businesses or others with large amounts of phone books for recycling should contact Cascades Recovery directly, at 250-491-2242.

For more information, call the Regional Waste Reduction Office, at 250-469-6250 or visit regionaldistrict.com/recycle.

(June 7, 2013)

Help the Central Okanagan 'Fight the Bite'

Since early April, the Regional District of Central Okanagan has been busy with its mosquito monitoring and control program.

With spring rains there’s plenty of standing water and with warmer temperatures on the horizon, those are the perfect conditions for hatching mosquito larva.

Communications Officer Bruce Smith says, “Our program monitoring and treatment crews have been busy checking out the more than 280 known breeding locations and if mosquito larvae are found, they treat the surface water habitat to minimize mosquito larval development. Residents in the participating areas of the program (City of Kelowna, District of Lake Country, Central Okanagan East and West Electoral Areas and a small section of West Kelowna Estates in the District of West Kelowna) can report mosquito concerns on public land by calling 1-866-679-8473.”

BWP Consulting Inc. is contracted to conduct all larval mosquito control only within these participating areas of the Regional District. BWP’s Cheryl Phippen says, “As a result of this spring’s weather conditions, we’re seeing high densities of mosquito larvae. Residents should expect higher than normal numbers of nuisance mosquitoes throughout the summer.” She adds, “People should protect themselves by wearing mosquito repellant containing DEET and light coloured clothing with long sleeves and long pants, especially at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are at their worst.”

Smith says, “Property owners throughout the Central Okanagan can help and support the work of our program by minimizing mosquito breeding habitat around their property. Remove standing water sources and any unused items that collect water such as old tires. Cover rain barrels and at least twice a week drain standing water from items like pool covers, saucers under plant pots or garbage cans. Mosquito larvae can also develop in birdbaths, wading pools or pet bowls, so water should be changed at least two times a week. Remove water that gathers in unused swimming pools and on swimming pool covers and aerate water in ponds or add fish that will eat mosquito larvae.”

The Regional District Mosquito Control program attempts to minimize the impact of mosquito larvae including the specific species that are capable of transmitting West Nile Virus as well as those that are known to be significant human nuisance. This monitoring and treatment is being done in 285 known surface water habitats as well as more than 15,300 roadside catch basins in the participating areas. View Program Fact Sheet

There are excellent resources available to help you and your family during the mosquito season. Visit the Mosquito Control page on the Regional District website regionaldistrict.com/mosquitoes for information about the program.

(June 7, 2013)

Falcon Ridge Water Quality Advisory - Stage 4 Restrictions Lifted

Slight improvement in water turbidity for the Regional District’s Falcon Ridge Water System means a Boil Water Notice is being downgraded to a Water Quality Advisory.

In addition, a Stage 4 Water Restriction prohibiting all outdoor water use has been removed for customers of the system servicing over 50 properties off Highway 33 in the Central Okanagan East Electoral Area. Work on cleaning and rehabilitating the system well has been completed and water use is no longer restricted in order to ensure adequate reservoir supply for indoor use.

After consulting with Interior Health, the latest water sample tests show a decrease in the turbidity, allowing the Regional District remove the Boil Water Notice issued May 9^th and bring in a precautionary Water Quality Advisory.

Turbidity levels in the water system remain slightly above acceptable Canadian Drinking Water Quality Guidelines and that might impact children, the elderly or those with weakened immune systems.

Communications Officer Bruce Smith says, “While the health risk is modest and no bacteria have been found in any of the water from the system tested, Regional District staff recommends as a precaution that Falcon Ridge water customers follow Interior Health guidelines. All water intended for drinking, washing produce, making beverages or brushing teeth should be boiled for at least one minute or customers should use a safe alternative to water from the tap such as bottled or distilled water or water filtered through a well-maintained in-home treatment device.”

This precautionary water quality advisory affecting the Falcon Ridge Water System will continue until further notice.

To sign up for email notifications of advisories affecting Regional District water systems visit www.regionaldistrict.com/water.

The Regional District operates six water systems servicing approximately 900 properties in Falcon Ridge, Killiney Beach, Westshore Estates, Upper Fintry-Shalal Road-Valley of the Sun, Sunset Ranch and Star Place/Trepanier. All customers are reminded that annual Stage 2 outdoor irrigation restrictions are in place June 16^th through September 15^th. This provides twice weekly outdoor irrigation days based on a customer’s odd or even street address.

Link to Interior Health Information:

Water Advisories and Notifications

www.interiorhealth.ca/YourEnvironment/DrinkingWater/Pages/AdvisoriesNotifications.aspx

Turbidity

www.interiorhealth.ca/YourEnvironment/DrinkingWater/Documents/turbidity.pdf

Drinking Water

www.interiorhealth.ca/YourEnvironment/DrinkingWater/Pages/default.aspx

(June 6, 2013)

Summer Nature Day Camp Registration Now Open

Registrations are now being accepted for this summer’s Nature Day Camps.

They return mornings during July and August in Mission Creek and Bertram Creek Regional Parks. Youth aged three through seven will have a blast participating in another summer of Nature Day Camps offered by the Regional District. Trained leaders will guide budding naturalists in these three, four and five, half-day camps at two of our Regional Parks. They’ll take part in fun activities and games, while learning about nature and our environment.

The cost for a three half-day camp is $60 per child, $80 per child for a four half-day camp or $100 per child for the five half-day camp.

Also returning this year are special three-morning programs for pre-schoolers (three and four year olds) at Mission Creek Regional Park. It runs from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm on July 3^rd to 5^th; July 30^th to August 1^st and August 6^th to 8^th. Registration for this special pre-school program is $60. The other summer camp dates are for youngsters aged five to seven.

Please register at the EECO (Environmental Education Centre for the Okanagan) in Mission Creek Regional Park, by emailing eeco@cord.bc.ca or by calling the centre at 250-469-6140. You can also link to program information and forms on the Regional Parks Youth Spring Break and Summer Camps webpage .

For more information about the Nature Day Camp program, dates and locations, visit the Regional District website or check out ‘Your Guide to Regional Parks 2013’. It’s available at municipal offices, recreation and visitor centres from Lake Country to Peachland. And it’s always available for you, whenever you need it at regionaldistrict.com/parks.

(June 6, 2013)

Safety in our Regional Parks

The Regional District of Central Okanagan is re-assuring residents and visitors about their safety in the Regional Park system.

“We’re stepping up our staff presence in our Regional Parks” says Communications Officer Bruce Smith, “in light of the sexual assault reported to Kelowna RCMP on Monday evening on a more remote trail in Mission Creek Regional Park”

Anyone that has information about this incident should contact Kelowna RCMP Constable McBride (250-762-3300) or anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), www.crimestoppers.net or text CRIMES (274637) ktown.

Smith adds, “We encourage anyone using the Mission Creek Greenway or walking trails in our Regional Parks to be aware of their surroundings and if possible walk with at least one other person. Carrying a cell phone will help should anyone need assistance. Our Parks Services Bylaw Enforcement and other staff will be stepping up their presence along the Greenway and in our other regional parks as a result of the incident.”

Smith says, “We also work with contracted park resident security and the Commissionaires who provide after hours security in many Regional Parks. In addition, we have an ongoing liaison with the RCMP and its auxiliary volunteer members and Crime Prevention Citizens Patrol volunteers when it comes to patrols, especially along the Mission Creek Greenway.”

“The Regional District,” Smith says “works to ensure everyone has a safe and pleasant experience in our parks. You may see our staff on foot or patrolling the trails on bicycle or on a small ATV in an effort to ensure our parks are safe places for everyone to enjoy.”

The Regional District operates and maintains 29 Regional Parks throughout the Central Okanagan. Find out more at regionaldistrict.com/parks

(June 5, 2013)

Rural Property Tax Notices

Rural property owners in the Central Okanagan East and West Electoral areas will shortly be receiving tax notices from the Provincial Government.

The Regional District reminds these property owners in the electoral areas that it does not collect taxes directly and does not accept payment of Property Taxes. Rural Property Tax Notices are collected by the Province. Within local municipal jurisdictions, taxes for Regional District purposes are included on municipal tax notices and are collected from property owners within the City of Kelowna, District of Lake Country, District of Peachland and District of West Kelowna.

Property owners in the two rural electoral areas may complete their Home Owner Grant Application and make their tax payment, payable to the Minister of Finance, at most financial institutions; through their mortgage agreement; by internet or telephone banking or by mail to the Surveyor of Taxes, P.O. Box 9446, Stn Prov Govt, Victoria, B.C., V8W 9V6. Property owners in the City of Kelowna, District of Lake Country, District of Peachland and District of West Kelowna must direct their property taxes payments to their local government.

Property owners in the Central Okanagan East and Central Okanagan West Electoral Areas with questions about their Rural Property Tax Notice should contact the Surveyor of Taxes at 1-800-663-7867 and request a transfer to 250-387-0555; by email (ruraltax@gov.bc.ca); or they can go online to the Ministry of Finance website at: www.sbr.gov.bc.ca/individuals/Property_Taxes/Rural_Property_Tax/rpt.htm.

To avoid any penalty, please ensure rural property taxes are paid by July 2^nd, 2013 or if the payment is being made by mail, it must be postmarked on or before July 2^nd. There are also a number of Provincial Government property tax deferment programs available that qualifying property owners may wish to consider. Details on these are available on the Ministry website.

(June 3, 2013)

Recycle Your Plastic Flower-Plant Pots

Remember to lift the blue lid of your recycling cart after you’ve done any gardening around your home! If you’re not going to re-use them, those plastic flowerpots and plant trays can all be recycled!

Everything from large nursery flowerpots for shrubs and trees to small planting trays for annual bedding plants, perennials, vegetables, and herbs can all be recycled. Simply rinse or wipe out the dirt and put the plastics in your recycling cart. These plastic pots and trays can also be taken to your nearest recycling depot.

Waste Reduction Facilitator Rae Stewart reminds us, “All household plastics #1 through 7 are accepted in the curbside recycling program, and these plastics from your plants are no different. Just ensure your garden pots or trays are cleaned of all dirt before you recycle them. Unfortunately, the little plastic tags that identify the plants can’t be recycled --they’re too small for workers at Cascades Recovery to pick up off a moving conveyor, so the tags go into regular garbage.”

Deanne Stephenson, Operations Manager of Cascades Recovery (the facility where all our recycling ends up for sorting) says, “The markets where the plastics are shipped to for recycling are watching closely for quality issues, so keeping the plastics clear of dirt, wooden stakes, metal twist ties or other contaminants is essential. Any help residents can provide in this would be welcome.”

Businesses like nurseries, landscape design contractors and farmers with larger volumes can contact Cascades Recovery at 250-491-2242 to arrange for the recycling of their plastics.

For more info on recycling, go to regionaldistrict.com/recycle, email recycle@cord.bc.ca, or call the Regional Waste Reduction Office at 250.469.6250.

(May 29, 2013)

New Summer-Fall Regional Parks Guide Available

The Summer-Fall edition of ‘Your Guide to Regional Parks’ is now online and hot off the press!

“The 10 page full colour foldout has all the information you need about our exciting line up of programs and events in our Regional Parks for the rest of 2013,” says Communications Officer Bruce Smith.

“The handy ‘Year at a Glance’ provides a month by month listing of programs and activities at the EECO located in Mission Creek Regional Park and in many of the Central Okanagan’s 27 other Regional Parks.” There’s also a colour map showing each Regional Park location and some of the features and amenities that are available.

Smith adds, “With summer fast approaching, parents of youngsters age three to seven may want to check out the dates, times and registration information for this year’s ‘Summer Nature Camp’ program during July and August.”

The Regional Parks guide also has the details for our special interpretive ‘Take a Hike’ program. “This year” Smith says, “Each hike has a special theme and our Parks Interpreter will be joined by a special guest. They’ll share interesting highlights and information about each park visited. As well this year, our Community Recreational Initiatives Society or CRIS partners will be holding special Adaptive Adventure walks and hikes in our Regional Parks.”

Smith adds, “We’re also introducing a number of special free ‘Families in Parks’ events that will engage every member of your family and you’re invited to join our ‘Parks Fun Zones’ program with games and activities for every member of your family.”

The new Regional Parks Guide is available anytime online by visiting regionaldistrict.com/parksguide. Or you can pick up a copy at the Regional District office (1450 KLO Road), the Environmental Education Centre for the Okanagan in Mission Creek Regional Park (Springfield and Durnin Roads) and very soon at any local government office, recreation centre or tourist and information offices in the Central Okanagan.

For more information about any Regional Parks programming and our detailed section for Regional Parks, visit regionaldistrict.com/parks or call the EECO at 250-469-6140.

(May 23, 2013)

Mission Creek Greenway Underpass Closed Again

Once again, rising water levels have forced the Regional District to close the Mission Creek Greenway underpass at the Casorso Road Bridge.

The creek level and flow has risen quickly in light of the heavy rain received throughout the area yesterday and is expected to remain high with more rain in the forecast for the rest of the week. Greenway patrons are reminded that the trail on the south side of Mission Creek at the Gordon Drive Bridge is also closed until further notice.

The Regional District of Central Okanagan urges Greenway users to respect the barricades and signs posted at these locations along the recreational trail as the underpasses will remain closed until waters recede.

Pedestrians and cyclists are asked to use caution and only cross Casorso Road when it is safe. Motorists are also asked to watch for Greenway users who may be crossing the road in this area while the underpass is closed.

At the present time, Greenway patrons may continue to use the north-side creek underpass at Gordon Drive which remains open. Please note however, that this too could be subject to closure at any time.

Regional Parks staff continues to monitor creek levels along the entire length of the Mission Creek Greenway. People are reminded that water levels may rise unexpectedly and they, children and pets should stay safely back from creek banks, which may be slippery or subject to erosion from the spring runoff.

Boaters and those using Okanagan Lake boat launches are advised to watch for floating debris that may enter the lake as a result of the runoff.

(May 22, 2013)

Key Connection for Glen Canyon Regional Park

The purchase of a 13.86 hectare property will greatly enhance the connections to Glen Canyon Regional Park in West Kelowna.

Regional District Board Chair Robert Hobson was joined by Director and West Kelowna Mayor Doug Findlater to celebrate the fourth addition this year to the Regional Park system. View RDCO Youtube Channel Video

Hobson says “The purchase of Brown Road property provides a critical link in the goal of connecting the lower portion of Glen Canyon Regional Park. This acquisition will facilitate the creation a continuous trail from the fish ladders off Gellatly Road south through to the Westbank Town Centre Park.”

Hobson adds, “The recently announced donation of parkland to West Kelowna, adjoining the existing lower portion of Glen Canyon Regional Park, is certainly an opportunity to work with West Kelowna, to realize this vision.”

The $1.18-million property purchase was funded through the Regional Parks Legacy Fund and contributions from and for the benefit of all Central Okanagan residents. This property meets two important Regional Parks Plan criteria for consideration under the Legacy Fund. First, it’s close to a large number of residents since it’s located between two well-populated areas of West Kelowna. Second, it provides great recreation potential as there are fairly easy walks on the historical flume trail, linking with steeper and more challenging trails in the lower sections of the canyon. View Park Property Map

This property will remain closed to the public until Spring next year as the connecting trail will be designed and built during the remainder of 2013.

Hobson adds, “Over the past five years, $9.1 million dollars has been provided from residents of all Central Okanagan municipalities and electoral areas to leverage the acquisition of important lands for our Regional Park system. This year alone we’ve announced the addition of just over 37 hectares of land with almost $8.3-million in funding in order to protect these lands for the use of future generations. In addition, another 800-hectares was added through the Regional District’s partnership with the Central Okanagan Land Trust to create the Johns Family Nature Conservancy Regional Park.”

(May 16, 2013)

Crime Stoppers Program of the Year!

The Central Okanagan Crime Stoppers program was recognized as the Crime Stopper Program of the Year at the BC Crime Stoppers Training Conference in Vancouver. The award was based on their outstanding results and contributions in 2012 making our community a safer and better place to live. This was all made possible by the contributions made by our partners, the Police, the Media and the citizens of the Central Okanagan.

Our program also received a Productivity Award for providing tips to the Police which lead to the recovery of over 9.2 million dollars of illegal drugs. Drugs that are no longer in the hands of organized crime.

We are also very pleased to announce that the “Q” FM 103.1/Power 104 received the Radio Media award for their ongoing series of Public Service Announcements in support of our Crime Stoppers program.

The conference was held May 3 to 4^th and twenty nine Crime Stopper Programs from across BC and programs from Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba were in attendance.

Crime Stoppers in a nonprofit society whose role is to help our communities stay safe by stopping, solving and preventing crime.

(May 13, 2013)

Emergency Operation Centre Online Mapping Service Recognized

A creative innovation by the Central Okanagan Emergency Operation Centre (EOC) team has been recognized for providing residents with in real-time evacuation information.

Recognizing that up-to-date and accurate information is crucial for the public in any emergency, the group of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technologists from both the Regional District of Central Okanagan and City of Kelowna, came together last spring to develop a uniform online mapping system, utilizing ArcGISOnline technology.

The result of their initiative was a detailed, interactive, multi-platform map on the www.cordemergency.ca website that is easily accessed online and by most mobile devices. The mapping information along with news releases and information updates is easily distributed directly from the EOC to more than 1,200 people who have subscribed to the Emergency Operation Centre website.

Esri Canada recently recognized the GIS team efforts by presenting it with the Award of Excellence for the outstanding use of GIS applications.

The Central Okanagan EOC website map system was tested and put online just a few weeks before the massive Trepanier wildfire spread into Peachland last September, resulting in approximately 1,500 residents being forced from their homes while another 400 were on alert.

The online map function allows users to drill down to show detailed street, address and property information helping to simplify and remove any confusion relating to areas affected by evacuation orders and alerts. As changes are made to EOC maps, those are automatically updated to the public website.

The award comes at an opportune time during Emergency Preparedness Week through May 11^th.

The Central Okanagan Emergency Operation Centre encourages residents to take some time during the week to prepare their family emergency plan.

Information is available at www.cordemergency.ca to help your family make its plan and you can subscribe to receive email information updates whenever the EOC is activated in response to any emergency in the Central Okanagan.

A selection of emergency preparedness pamphlets is available at the Regional District of Central Okanagan office (1450 KLO Road in Kelowna) and the main Kelowna Fire Hall (2255 Enterprise Way).

(May 8, 2013)

North Westside Fire Rescue Receives New Trucks

This weekend will be a busy one for members of the North Westside Fire Rescue Department.

Officers and fire-fighters will be spending time Saturday and Sunday getting to know and training on the department’s two new engine trucks.

The trucks, valued at more than $300,000 each, were purchased through the Regional District after an extensive Request for Proposal process which saw Winnipeg-based Fort Garry Fire Trucks awarded the contract, providing the best overall value for ratepayers within the fire department service area and quality of specialized fire protection vehicles.

Regional District Fire and Inspection Services Manager Dan Wildeman says “One truck will be located at the main Station 101 hall off Udell Road while the other will be housed at the Short’s Creek Station 102 hall. The new engines will help the fire district maintain its fire underwriters dwelling protection standard benefitting homeowners.”

Fire Chief Wayne Carson adds, “The new engines will fit in well with the department’s existing apparatus and will serve the first responder and fire protection needs of the community for the next 20 years. Some of the new features offered on the engines include a front bumper mounted monitor that allows water to be directed while the vehicle is moving and an automatic built-in foam tank that allows fire suppressing foam to be applied with water. There’s also a one inch fast attack hose mounted on the truck for a quick response to small fires.”

The trucks are equipped with four wheel drive and instant chains providing optimum traction in various road conditions and come with a 1,050 gallon per minute pump.

The two engines were acquired without the need for financing as property owners within the North Westside Fire Protection District approved a referendum in 2005 for a parcel tax of $50 a year over five years, in order to build reserve funds for purchasing fire equipment.

(May 2, 2013)

Prepare Your Family Before An Emergency

Your doorbell rings. When you answer, the emergency responder outside quickly tells you to gather your family and leave because of a threatening emergency. Are you ready?

Two possible outcomes to this scenario have played out over the years in the Central Okanagan. You either feel the adrenaline rush, yet confidently respond, with each member of your family running through your prepared emergency plan, or you could panic, start grabbing items you think you might need or might want to save and forever regret that you weren’t ready to respond.

The Central Okanagan Regional Emergency Program encourages you and your family to invest some important time May 5^th through 11^th during Emergency Preparedness Week and get prepared.

Know the Risks. Make a Plan. Get a Kit. These are the three simple, easy to remember steps that every Central Okanagan family should act on during Emergency Preparedness Week.

“The cordemergency.ca website proved to be an incredibly valuable direct information source during last year’s various flooding and wildfire events across the region,” says Emergency Program Coordinator Jason Brolund. “Subscribers received real time notification whenever any new information was released from the Emergency Operation Centre including detailed maps showing areas under evacuation alerts and orders. In fact, during the Trepanier fire more than 55,000 unique visitors checked out the site, from within the Central Okanagan and as far away as Australia, Mexico and Switzerland.”

He adds, “You’ll also find links on the website to a wide variety of information that will be useful as your family make its own emergency plans, from floods to wildfires and severe weather-related emergencies. Emergency Preparedness Week gives everyone a chance to prepare and take stock of their family’s needs now, in a calm, stress-free and rational way.”

Central Okanagan emergency responders and Emergency Operations Centre teams and volunteers like Emergency Support Services train and prepare throughout the year in the event they are called into service. Brolund says, “We encourage all families in the region to join in their own preparations during this important time of year.”

The cordemergency.ca website also has links to the wealth of emergency planning information available through the provincial Emergency Management BC and federal GetPrepared.ca programs.

A selection of emergency preparedness pamphlets is available at the Regional District of Central Okanagan office (1450 KLO Road in Kelowna) and the main Kelowna Fire Hall (2255 Enterprise Way).

Brolund adds, “In a large-scale emergency, responders may not be able to reach you for at least 72 hours. Being prepared with a kit for you and your family will allow you to remain self-sufficient and safe, while emergency personnel respond to the most urgent needs in the community. You can make or purchase an emergency preparedness kit with materials that will help support your family. It should include non-perishable food, water, a manual can opener, flashlights, a battery power or wind-up radio, cash in small denominations and special items your family might need like diapers or medications.”

More information is available on making an emergency kit at www.redcross.ca/prepare or you can purchase one online at www.shop.redcross.ca or at the Canadian Red Cross office at 124 Adams Road in Kelowna.

(May 2, 2013)

Mission Creek Greenway Trail Section Officially Added

A section of trail along Mission Creek has now officially been added to the Mission Creek Greenway recreational corridor.

While many people have utilized the 450-metres of trail along the south dyke of Mission Creek between Gordon Drive and Casorso Road over the years, it was not until the Regional District received a legal Statutory Right-of-Way, that this portion of the trail has now officially been added as a part of the Greenway.

Concrete barricades that previously marked the legal end of this trail will soon be removed. Until then, pedestrians, cyclists and other visitors may continue to use the trail unimpeded by the barricades.

The Westbank First Nation has provided a letter to the City of Kelowna authorizing further trail access from Casorso Road through its Reserve No. 8 along the north and south-side creek dykes in order to link up with the now formal south-side Greenway trail through to Gordon Drive. People can access this portion of the trail from the parking area at the Mission Sportsfields, just off Gordon Drive. The new access creates a complete 2.5-kilometre loop trail that people can use on both sides of Mission Creek between Gordon Drive and Casorso Road.

This project is in partnership with the Mission Creek Restoration Initiative and has been funded with a grant from the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation. It includes the purchase of a 2.7-hectare property adjacent to Mission Creek. The Initiative partnership envisions the property will be used to provide a setback of the creek dyke to re-align and re-establish the creek channel to a more natural, meandering route.

The Regional District’s trail Statutory Right-of-Way and property purchase contribution ($215,000) was funded through the Regional Parks Legacy fund. (View Map)

The Mission Creek Restoration Initiative partnership is comprised of the Central Okanagan Land Trust, City of Kelowna, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Friends of Mission Creek, BC Ministry of Environment, Okanagan Nation Alliance, Westbank First Nation and the Regional District of Central Okanagan.

(April 23, 2013)

Storytime at the EECO

Pre-schoolers love ‘Storytime at the EECO’.

This free interactive drop-in program for children age three to five and their caregivers takes place each Tuesday morning at 10:00 until June 25^that the Environmental Education Centre for the Okanagan or EECO (ee-COH).

During the hour, participants will be treated to nature themed stories, songs and crafts. It’s a fun and active way to learn more about our Regional Parks and the animals of the Okanagan. When the weather’s appropriate, short outdoor walks will be included.

There’s plenty of parking at the EECO, located in Mission Creek Regional Park at Springfield and Durnin Roads.

For more information visit the Regional District website regionaldistrict.com/parks or contact the EECO staff at 250-469-6140.

(April 8, 2013)

Supreme Court Support Anonymous Adoption Process for 'Diesel'

A BC Supreme Court Justice has accepted a proposal presented by the Regional District of Central Okanagan for the anonymous adoption of a dog that’s been in its care for two years.

Mr. Justice Barrow agreed that the Regional District can proceed with a plan to transfer ‘Diesel’, a German-shepherd cross dog to a qualified anonymous dog rescuer.

“The Regional District is very pleased to have the court support our proposal that will see ‘Diesel’ placed anonymously with a new owner outside our jurisdiction,” says Chief Administrative Officer Paul Macklem. “This is something that we and many people have called for, giving ‘Diesel’ a new home and another chance with a responsible owner.”

Macklem adds, “We trust that the majority of dog owners in the Central Okanagan provide the best care and homes for their pets. We encourage them to be responsible, accountable and good neighbours, not allowing their dogs to cause problems or be a nuisance. We have maintained from the outset, this entire unfortunate ordeal could have been prevented if ‘Diesel’ had been securely contained on his property and not allowed to run at large or off leash.”

He says, “If dog owners are responsible for their pets, around their home and in public; if they license them, leash them and control them, this will go a long way in preventing situations like this from taking place.”

Follow this link to learn more about Responsible Dog Ownership in the Central Okanagan.

(March 28, 2013)

Dog Control Service Review Update

The Regional Board has received an update on efforts to phase-in recommendations stemming from the Dog Control Service Review conducted by Neilsen-Welch Consulting during 2012.

The consultant report outlined the key elements to be considered in developing a new service model that’s focused on responsible dog ownership while acknowledging that dog owners must be active partners with local government in effectively managing human-dog interactions.

RDCO staff is working in several areas to further develop the new Dog Control service model including a redrafting of the dog bylaw, and providing public opportunity for input and engagement before bringing it forward to the Board for consideration later this year. Other steps to provide a more valued, cost effective service include the use of Consent Orders in appropriate dangerous dog cases and efforts to conveniently allow the purchase of a new dog licence online. At the present time, only licence renewal transactions can be completed on the RDCO website.

View the Service Review Implementation Update Report

View the entire Oct. 2012 Dog Control Service Review Report and Consultant's Presentation. Listen to Presentation Audio (2hour, 20minutes)

(March 1, 2013)

Document Download Problems?

Recently the Regional District has become aware of periodic problems regarding the inability of some users of our website to open Adobe PDF documents that had been previously accessible. They've received an error notice saying that the document they were trying to open is not available.

We understand that the problem has been caused by a recent Microsoft Internet Explorer Security update. This update on the user's computer has broken the ability of the Adobe Acrobat Reader program to open and access previously downloadable PDF documents in Internet Explorer.

Should this problem occur on your computer system, please download and install the latest free version of Adobe Acrobat Reader. You can find this by following this link: http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/readstep2.html or by clicking on the Adobe Reader icon on the bottom right corner on each page of our website.

We thank you for your patience and appreciate your continued support of the Regional District of Central Okanagan website.

For information or queries about our website please contact: webmaster@cord.bc.ca

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