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(ADAM PROSKIW / iNFOnews.ca)

North Westside Review Study Supported

The Regional Board supports a governance study for the North Westside Fire Protection Service Area with a focus on a hybrid approach blending a diagnostic service analysis and a community issues assessment.  In addition, the resolution directs staff to prepare an application to the Province for funding the study that will be brought before the Board for approval.  All RDCO staff time, unforeseen consulting fees and associated costs of the study will be tracked and allocated to Central Okanagan West Electoral Area Administration or if possible to the specific study area.  The Regional Board will also be asked to approve a study scope, objectives and Terms of Reference.  In a previous letter from Community, Sport and Cultural Development Minister Peter Fassbender and confirmed during a November 28th presentation to the Board from a Ministry representative, the Ministry is prepared to consider funding a study of issues within the existing Regional District Electoral Area structure and framework.
Crime Stoppers Service Bylaw

The Regional Board has adopted the Crime Stoppers Conversion and Establishment Bylaw.  The housekeeping bylaw brings the Crime Stoppers program into line with the way the program has been delivered across the region for many years at no additional cost to taxpayers. The Alternative Approval Process was used to seek elector support for the bylaw and no objections were received by the December 2nd deadline.
Regional Air Quality Program Service Review

The Regional Board has received a Service Review report and continues to support delivery of the Regional Air Quality Program.  The program works with inter-government and agency partners on efforts to protect and improve air quality across the Central Okanagan.  Along with research, the program develops and delivers public awareness and education initiatives designed to reduce air pollution through specific actions outlined in the Central Okanagan Air Quality Strategy.
Starling Control Service Review

The Regional Board has received a report reviewing the Starling Control Service.  The program is managed and delivered by the BC Grapegrowers Association which receives $25,000 a year in funding support from each of the three Okanagan regional districts.  With Provincial approval, the Board has adopted the Starling Control Program Grant Service Establishment Bylaw for the Central Okanagan which provides annual funding the for the starling control program.
Financial Plan Parameters Outlined

The Regional Board has endorsed parameters to expand the process use for consideration of the Five Year Financial Plan and budget.  Heading into the financial deliberations for 2017-2021, the Board supports a proposed cap on operation budget increases of two per cent or less.  After adopting the Financial Plan, the Board will provide feedback on areas of the process that went well and possible future improvements.
Capital Spending Approved

The Regional Board has approved the carryover of some 2016 projects to the first three months of 2017.  The budget for a number of other projects that were approved for 2016 but not started will be reviewed again for inclusion in the 2017 Budget Process.
Gas Tax Funding Allocation Approved

The Regional Board has approved allocating unspent Regionally Significant Project Gas Tax funds.  In July 2012, just over $4.4-million was approved for the purchase or lease of new transit buses. Since then, $2.6-million has been spent.  The remaining $1.7-million will be used to continue pre-payment of leases for new transit buses, renovation of the Transit Operation Centre and the addition of new transponder equipment on the existing transit fleet.
Zoning Amendment Adopted

The Regional Board has adopted a zoning amendment bylaw for a 5.97-hectare property along Westside Road within the Central Okanagan West Electoral Area.  The property has historically been divided into eight shared waterfront sites.  The text amendment permits the seven existing dwelling units on the property to continue as a legal conforming use.  In addition an eighth share site is allowed to convert an accessory building to a dwelling unit.
Regional Board Meetings

Regional District office – 1450 KLO Road, Kelowna (Woodhaven Board Room).  Residents are welcome to attend.
·         Thursday, January 12th – following 8:30 am Governance and Services Committee meeting
·         Monday, January 23rd – 7:00 pm

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