RDKB board highlights include seeking cell service for Paulson Pass
By RDKB
A general overview of discussion items & major decisions from the Regional District of Kootenay Boundary (RDKB) Board of Directors open regular meeting. The next board meeting is Dec. 8 at 1 p.m. on Zoom.
Board to Advocate for Cell Coverage for Paulson
The RDKB will send a letter to the Provincial government requesting it fund the infrastructure needed for the installation of cell towers along the Paulson on Hwy 3 as well as Highway 33. Given the provincial state of emergency and the closure of Highways 1 and 5, up to 525% more traffic is expected to travel this stretch of road, thereby increasing the chances of more accidents. Cell service would benefit stranded and injured motorists, emergency responders, highways crews and other workers.
Board to ask for Gas Tax Funding Extension
The Board will request the Provincial and Federal Governments to extend the Gas Tax Funding (now known as the Canada Community-Building Fund) program to beyond 2024. The program provides local governments with funding to support 19 different infrastructure categories. In total, the program allocates over $2 billion to projects across the country annually.
Board Hears from Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation & Forest Enhancement Society of BC
Representatives from these organizations explained their mandates; the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation funds conservation projects and educates the public about BC’s freshwater fish and wildlife. The Forest Enhancement Society of BC advances environmental and resource stewardship of BC’s forests. It has also helped local communities to reduce wildfire risk and restore ecosystems. The two organizations have partnered since 2016 to leverage funding for local projects such as invasive mussel monitoring, the Fort Shepherd Conservancy Area and the Kootenay Conservation Program.
Board to Allocate COVID-19 Restart Grant Funds to Organizations
The RDKB will allocate $30,000 of its COVID-19 Restart Grant to organizations that assist vulnerable individuals in our communities.
RDKB Staff present Draft 2022 Work Plans
RDKB managers presented their draft work plans for 2022. Each work plan provides a description of the service, budget details, associated human resources, 2021 accomplishments, issues and trends, and 2022 projects. Once the work plans are reviewed by the respective committees, they will come back to the Board for approval.
First Draft of Five Year Financial Plan Presented
The Chief Financial Officer presented the first draft of the Five Year Financial Plan, which initiates budget deliberations. A financial plan must include the current fiscal year and the next four fiscal years. It must be adopted by March 31st.
Board Adopts Security Issuing Bylaw for Christina Lake Fire Service
The Board adopted Bylaw No. 1776, which enables the RDKB to borrow up to $1,285,000 ($1.million to fund the purchase of vehicles and equipment for the Christina Lake fire service. If no challenges are brought forward during the 10-day quashing period, the RDKB may proceed with borrowing the money in the spring of 2022.
Board Adopts Revenue Anticipation Bylaw
The Board adopted Bylaw No. 1781, which allows the RDKB to fund operating
expenditures until it receives tax revenue in July 2022.
2021 Flooding: RDKB Staff Assist Local Government Colleagues
RDKB staff have been assisting emergency personnel in other local governments in their recovery efforts by sharing knowledge and lessons learned from the 2018 Grand Forks flooding.
Grants-in-Aid: Board-approved funding to local groups/projects
Area E/West Boundary:
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Beaverdell Community Club and Recreation – Friends Helping Friends Food Program: $3,000
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Kettle River Food Share Society – Food Grant for West Boundary: $3,000
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Kettle River Food Share Society – Rock Creek Food Share Exchange Program Coordinator for 2022: $6,000
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Kettle Wildlife Association – Operating Expenses due to COVID-19 Revenue Loss: $2,000
These highlights exclude confidential information such as business negotiations, personnel issues and legal matters. For full meeting agendas/minutes visit rdkb.civicweb.net. For a list of upcoming board meetings, visit rdkb.com.
For other information or to provide feedback, please contact our Corporate Officer at 250-368-0235 or corporate@rdkb.com.
