The Tiki Bar at Lake Okanagan Resort has been closed by Interior Health because it could not keep customers safe from the virus.

(ROB MUNRO / iNFOnews.ca)

Troubled times for Okanagan Lake Resort continue with the forced closure of its Tiki Bar.

The shut down was ordered by Interior Health on Sept. 10 and a $345 ticket was issued on Sept. 14.

“The order was issued to reduce COVID-19 transmission,” Interior Health said in an email to iNFOnews.ca.

“Interior Health attempts to work with all establishments and understands the challenges for businesses as they work to adhere to (Provincial Health Officer) orders," the written statement continued. "However, if they are unable to comply, they will be closed for the safety of the public. The order notes the premises do not have adequate measures in place to protect the public from contracting COVID-19.”

READ MORE: Lake Okanagan Resort: Rapid decay and glory days

No further details were provided.

Okanagan Lake Resort has been the subject of many complaints over the last couple of years from time share owners and residents who live there who claim it is not properly maintained and is becoming run down.

Ryan Hargreaves is cited in the order to close.

He and two other Alberta man took over the food services at the resort in February, calling it the Okanagan Lake Beach Club and promoted the Tiki Bar as the only licenced waterfront bar on Okanagan Lake.

READ MORE: Plans afoot to revitalize 'the only licensed bar on the beach of Okanagan Lake

“Unfortunately Interior Health has shut down our tiki bar for the season,” Hargreaves posted on his Facebook page on Sept. 11. “We will be doing shuttles from the beach to our beautiful bistro with amazing food, drinks and views! Pools are still open and so are pickle ball courts and golf course... Weddings and special events are still a go!!”

Interior Health also shut down the Spruce Hill Resort and Spa at 108 Mile Ranch, just north of 100 Mile House, in July. Violations included lack of COVID protocols at its spa, pool, hot tubs, Lumberjack Salon, Emily Carr Café along with its Wok and Grill.

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