It may not be sexy as far as major projects go, but there’s confidence that sewer treatment could bolster the North Okanagan’s economy.
During 2017, the Regional District of North Okanagan will continue to be focused on a proposed sewer treatment facility along the Swan Lake corridor.
“The first phase of the study showed it’s feasible financially depending on senior government grants,” said Bob Fleming, BX-Swan Lake director and Regional District of North Okanagan chairperson.
The partners in the initiative include BX-Swan Lake, BX-Silver Star, Spallumcheen and the Okanagan Indian Band.
The goal would be to reduce the impact of current septic tanks on Swan Lake while allowing land in the corridor to develop.
“Servicing that land will make a difference for economic development,” said Fleming.
“I’m particularly interested in how it will help the OKIB.”
It’s possible that an application for government grants could proceed this spring.
Voter assent among those directly impacted by the project would also be required.
“We have strong support,” said Fleming.
On another front, jurisdictions outside of Vernon are considering the establishment of a rural economic development function.
“There’s interest in looking at what’s possible,” said Fleming.
“We want co-operation to improve everyone’s situation.”
The economic development function could potentially be administered by Community Futures.
Also with co-operation, RDNO, the Splatsin and the Columbia-Shuswap Regional District are expected to keep pursuing acquisition of the former Canadian Pacific rail line from Spallumcheen to Sicamous. Fleming says negotiations with CP are active.
“They are into the nitty-gritty in terms of how it’s taken over. Is there reclamation of the site that needs to be done and who does that?” he said.
Potential uses include a recreational corridor.
“Sicamous doesn’t have natural gas and that could allow for a corridor for natural gas. I hope it happens in 2017,” said Fleming.
Another focus for RDNO in the new year will be Greater Vernon’s master water plan.
The first six months of 2017 will likely be focused on developing a financing strategy for the plan.
Fleming says the installation of ultraviolet treatment at Duteau Creek could defer costly filtration for some time.
We have a viable plan and it’s just working through the process.”