Officials hope to calm the waters over a proposed motor boat ban on the Shuswap River.
On Wednesday, the Regional District of North Okanagan committed to $70,000 Wednesday for further consultation work on vessel restriction regulations on the river.
“We will attempt to find common middle ground that addresses public interest broadly,” said David Sewell, chief administrative officer.
RDNO had been considering motorized vessel restrictions on three parts of the river near Enderby because of environmental and safety concerns. But the process stalled after considerable criticism arose among boaters.
A survey indicated a range of 45 to 46 per cent in favour of regulations and a range of 42 to 52 per cent opposed.
“There’s been considerable commentary here at this table and in the public,” said Sewell.
With protests remaining strong, the district decided a third-party should meet with residents and user groups to consider next steps.
While the process has been largely focused on the Enderby area, it could expand to include Cherryville and Sugar Lake.
Hank Cameron, Cherryville director, said 72 people at a community meeting earlier this year favoured regulations.
“It was unanimous they don’t want jet boats on our portion of the river.”