Regional Growth Strategy Bylaw Adopted

The Regional Board has adopted the new Regional Growth Strategy (RGS) Bylaw No. 1336.  The RGS update has been underway since 2010 after consulting several times with the public, stakeholders, local governments, the Westbank First Nation and Okanagan Indian Band and many provincial and senior government agencies.  The bylaw updates and addresses changes that have occurred across the Central Okanagan since the previous Regional Growth Strategy was adopted in 2000 while considering future sustainability for the region. As required by the Local Government Act, the bylaw has been accepted by all member municipalities and adjacent regional districts.
Recycling Depot & Transfer Station Contract

The Regional Board has approved a one year contract for recycling depot and transfer station services with OK Environmental Waste Systems.  This will allow staff over the next year, to monitor impacts related to the recently expanded provincially-regulated recycling program operated by Multi-Materials BC.  In addition, as the company is the current contractor, it provides minimal disruption in service and a saving of approximately $200,000 for the duration of the contract.
Community Works Fund Agreement

The Regional Board has approved entering into a ten year Community Works Fund Agreement with the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM), which administers the Federal Gas Tax funding program with the Canada and BC governments.  Under the new agreement, the Regional District of Central Okanagan is eligible for bi-annual payments of $320,834.62 for 2014 and 2015.
Regional Board Meetings

Regional District office – 1450 KLO Road, Kelowna (Woodhaven Board Room).  Residents are welcome to attend.
·         Thursday, July 17th -  following 8:30 am Governance & Services Committee meeting
·         Monday, July 28th  – 7:00 pm
2020 Labour Market Outlook

The Regional Board has received a report from the Central Okanagan Economic Development Commission on the ‘2020 Labour Market Outlook’.  This detailed study was funded and facilitated by senior governments, UBCO, Okanagan College and the Okanagan Valley Economic Development Society.   The study assessed the nature and extent of the labour market in the three valley Regional Districts in order to fully understand trends, educational needs, identify skill gaps and anticipated labour needs in the Okanagan over the next six years..

News from © iNFOnews, 2014