The North Okanagan is home to distinct communities, but they also present a united front.
The goal of the Regional District of North Okanagan in 2016 is to continue to provide services of mutual interest among the six municipalities and five electoral areas, as well as foster a common relationship.
“We’re all one region,” said Rick Fairbairn, RDNO chairperson and rural Lumby director.
RDNO’s municipal members are Armstrong, Coldstream, Enderby, Lumby, Spallumcheen and Vernon, and the five electoral areas are BX-Silver Star, BX-Swan Lake, Cherryville, rural Enderby and rural Lumby.
Diverse opinions surface around the board table but Fairbairn insists that respectful discussion comes from open communication.
“We want the partners informed on issues and when they come to meetings to vote, they have the full background,” he said.
On the agenda for the new year, is the five-year review of the regional growth strategy.
“It looks at a range of issues, including economic development, agriculture, housing and transportation,” said Fairbairn, adding that the document has achieved its goals.
“It shows a spirit of co-operation among the partners.”
Also moving ahead is RDNO’s efforts with Kelowna and Lake Country to plan a trail along the former Canadian National rail corridor.
“We’re looking forward to develop that with our partners,” said Fairbairn.
Multi-jurisdictional discussions will also continue on the possible acquisition of the abandoned Canadian Pacific rail line from Spallumcheen to Sicamous.
“The two will dovetail nicely for a recreational trail network,” said Fairbairn of the CP and CN corridors.
However, he admits that a final decision on purchasing the CN line won’t be made until the final purchase price is known and jurisdictions decide if they will enter the service.
Investigation of a possible sewer system for the Swan Lake corridor is also proceeding.
The process involves BX-Swan Lake, BX-Silver Star, Spallumcheen and the Okanagan Indian Band and the goal is to encourage economic development while preserving the environment.
“It’s a critical initiative,” said Fairbairn.
A stakeholders committee will also continue to meet in 2016 to discuss the future of Greater Vernon’s water utility after a $70 million borrowing referendum for various projects was shot down by voters in 2014.
Fire protection in the rural communities is also being reviewed after the provincial government mandated a new training manual.
“It will require additional resources, additional training,” said Fairbairn, adding that the primary concern is the additional cost needed to meet the guidelines.