regionaldistrictofcentralokanagan annualrepo rt · 2012. 10. 21. · 4•...

Annual Report

nurtur ing growth, foster ing l i festy le

2009REGIONAL DISTRICT OF CENTRAL OKANAGAN

PHOTO

:KELLY

HAYES

contents & mission statement

Message from the Chair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2Message from the Administrator . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3Vital Statistics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4Finance and Administrative Services

Finance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5Human Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Development and Environmental ServicesBylaw Enforcement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7Engineering and Public Works . . . . . . . . . . . 8Fire and Protective Services . . . . . . . . . . . . 10Inspections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11Planning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11Waste Reduction Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Information Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15Parks Services

Grants and Donations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16Regional Parks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16Central Okanagan East Parks . . . . . . . . . . .18Central Okanagan West Parks . . . . . . . . . . .18

Economic Development Commission . . . . . . . . 19Drug Policy Coordinator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22Crime Prevention . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24Crime Stoppers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25False Alarm Reduction Program . . . . . . . . . . . . 26Victim Witness Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27Regional Emergency Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28911 Communications Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

MISSION STATEMENT“The Regional District of Central Okanagan will

provide effective and efficient services that meet theneeds of our citizens, in a manner that nurturesgrowth, opportunities, and prosperity whilemaintaining and enhancing the unique CentralOkanagan lifestyle and environment.”

The Central Okanagan is located along the shoresof Okanagan Lake, in the beautiful Okanagan Valleyof British Columbia’s Southern Interior. The RegionalDistrict encompasses over 314,000 hectares ofdiverse topography. There are mountain peaks andbeautiful sandy beaches. You’ll also find naturallyforested areas that provide many recreationalopportunities; orchards and vineyards that offer arural, agricultural flavor and all the amenitiesassociated with a thriving, urban centre. In fact, theCentral Okanagan continues to be one of the mostdesirable places in which to live. It’s truly a four-season playground, attracting tens of thousands ofvisitors each year. They come to partake in

extraordinary powder skiing, lush golf courses,world-renown wineries, fruit right off the tree andfresh, clean air and water. It’s no wonder anincreasing number of people turn a visit to theCentral Okanagan into their chosen place to live,work and play.

The Regional District of Central Okanaganincludes the two unincorporated Electoral Areas ofCentral Okanagan East and Central Okanagan West,along with the member municipalities of the City ofKelowna, the District of Lake Country, the District ofPeachland and District of West Kelowna. The missionof the Regional District is to help protect the qualityof life for all citizens by planning for the future, whiledelivering regional services in an efficient and costeffective manner. Services that are provided by theRegional District to residents in the Electoral Areasinclude water, planning and solid waste collection.As well, the District provides region-wide servicessuch as dog control and recycling, 9-1-1, RegionalParks and the Emergency Response Plan for theCentral Okanagan.

The Regional District Board of Directors is madeup of 12 elected and appointed representatives fromthe Electoral Areas and the member municipalities.In addition, a non-voting member is appointed torepresent the Westbank First Nation on the RegionalBoard. Each month the Board holds a regularmeeting and a Governance and Services Committeemeeting to provide guidance in managing thevarious programs, services and issues that arise aspart of local governance.

REGIONAL DISTRICT OF CENTRAL OKANAGAN 2009 • 1

DISTRICTOF WESTKELOWNA

DISTRICT OFLAKE COUNTRY

CENTRALOKANAGAN EAST

ELECTORALAREACITY OF

KELOWNA

DISTRICT OFPEACHLAND

OKAN

AGAN

LAKE

1450 KLO Rd., Kelowna, BC V1W 3Z4Ph: 250-763-4918 Fx: 250-763-0606Email: [email protected] • www.regionaldistrict.com

CENTRALOKANAGAN

WESTELECTORAL

AREA

Fibreused in

this printedproduct meetsthe sourcingrequirements

of theSustainableForestryInitiativeprogram.

We’re going green!Motion-activated

florescent lighting inRDCO offices savesenergy and money!

2 • REGIONAL DISTRICT OF CENTRAL OKANAGAN 2009

� Be prepared. Those wise words taught to youngpeople by the Scouting organization are a testament tothe value of thinking ahead, looking out for anychallenges that may unfold. The well-known motto alsoproved relevant during 2009 as we positioned theRegional District of Central Okanagan for the future.

Extensive effort was put into a thorough review ofservices provided by the Regional District. This exercisehas helped the Board as it considers the direction of theRegional District over the years ahead. We anticipateseeing some of the results of this undertaking during2010 and in the years to come.

The Regional Board also helped establish a StrategicDirection for the Regional District creating a regionalvision that is rooted in sustainability. We look forward tothe process that will revise our Central Okanagan Growth

Strategy, setting a sustainable benchmarkof consensus for the Regional District andits member local governments.

Late in the year, the Board approvedthe first property acquisitions through theRegional Parks Legacy Program. Thisvisionary program will provide funds onbehalf of all Central Okanagan residents toprotect ecologically and environmentallysignificant properties for the Regional Parksystem, preparing it for the years ahead

and for the benefit of all citizens.Once again, we are preparing for the future

health needs of Central Okanagan residents. TheRegional Hospital District is providing significantfunds toward the new Ambulatory Care tower atKelowna General Hospital. Every day we see theprogress construction crews are making and lookforward to the day when this outstanding facility

and its professional staff will provide key health services.2009 saw the untimely passing of one of our valued

colleagues, Director Brian Given. Brian was the RegionalDistrict representative on the Okanagan Basin WaterBoard of which he also chaired, the Okanagan FilmCommission and chair of the Central Okanagan DogAdvisory Committee. We truly miss Brian, but hisselfless dedication to all residents of the CentralOkanagan will live on.

On a more pleasant note, we welcomed DirectorCharlie Hodge to the Board and his new role as chair ofthe Dog Advisory Committee.

During the past year, we welcomed staff from twovalley-focused organizations to the Regional District KLORoad administration building. The Okanagan Basin WaterBoard and Sterile Insect Release programs are nowlocated with us and join the Okanagan Film Commissionin providing services to residents and local governmentsthroughout the Okanagan-Similkameen areas.

Preparing for the unexpected is something that morethan 20,000 residents experienced first hand with thelate summer West Kelowna complex forest fires. Whileless than a handful of homes were lost, thankfully nocitizens were injured as a result of the Glenrosa, RoseValley and Terrace Mountain fires. Our emergency firstresponders and the BC Forest Service deserve praise fortheir herculean effort in protecting properties andconducting smooth evacuations. Dozens of agencies andindividual residents and businesses stepped up to helpour Emergency Social Service volunteers and those ofthe Vernon-Coldstream area during some trying days inlate July and early August. Thank you for being there tohelp your neighbours.

In late 2009, the provincially-appointed CentralOkanagan Aggregate Task Force began work, laying outthe public process that is expected by early 2011 toresult in recommendations on how to provide moredirect local involvement and responsibility over what’sbeen a controversial issue across the region: sand andgravel extraction and processing. The Regional Districthas been requesting this study for some time and looksforward to the outcome.

Finally, on behalf of the Board I wish to thank ourdiligent staff for their dedication and support as togetherwe prepare for the future.

Robert Hobson • CHAIRPERSON

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRPH

OTO

:KELLY

HAYES

� You may notice throughout this edition of theRegional District Annual Report, that we’re reinforcingthe ‘Living Greener for a Sustainable Okanagan’message. We and our member municipalities remaincommitted to leaving our region in better shape thanwhen we inherited it. Together, we are working towardsthis goal by making better environmentally sustainingchoices in our daily lives. And we can all take part:whether it’s installing improved efficiency lower-energyappliances, cooling/heating devices and lighting;reducing our demand for water or using alternativetransportation and not idling our vehicles, we mustchange our ways to protect the region with which wehave been entrusted. We hope you find a way to makesome of the tips contained on the following pages a partof your lifestyle.

One of those changes during 2009 saw thesuccessful region-wide roll out of the Automated WasteCollection program. More than 155,000 wheeledgarbage, recycling and yard waste carts were deliveredto every home on curbside collection from Lake Countryto Peachland. As expected while some initiallyquestioned the changeover, by the time the last carts hadbeen delivered, residents showed their ability to adaptand easily make the switch. Thank you for yourpatience, support and participation, which by the wayresulted in the largest ever volume of yard wastecollected at the curb. Nevertheless, we pledge to

continue to refine your service.2009 saw the first of what we hope

will be further acquisitions under thevisionary Regional Parks Legacyprogram. Our goal is to protectecologically significant areas as part ofour extensive Regional Park system forthe benefit of present and future citizens.We look forward to more exciting

additions over the next few years.Work is well underway on programs to update our

regional district water systems and to continue efforts toencourage residents to protect our valuable resource.Water meter installation is one tool that will help achievethis overall goal, as is the adoption of outdoor irrigationrestrictions that are consistent with other waterpurveyors in the Central Okanagan. As well, planning iswell underway for the anticipated construction of a new

domestic water system for three subdivisions in theNorth Westside Road area. Through a cooperative effortwe’ve made great strides over the years to improve ouroverall air quality and will continue to work on educationand awareness programs in this important area. Withour municipal partners, we also hope to see furtherimprovements and service reliability in the area oftransit. We’re reinforcing sustainability in our planningsection with our goal of updating the Regional GrowthStrategy.

Infrastructure improvements are helping us stayahead of the demands generated by continued growth.One project is the expansion of the Westside RegionalWaste Water Treatment Plant, which we anticipate tobreak ground during 2010. A $7.3-million contributionfrom the Canada/BC Infrastructure Program is makingthis possible.

I’d also like to welcome the staff of both theOkanagan Basin Water Board and Sterile Insect Releaseprograms to offices within the Regional District KLOBuilding. We’re sure this will help us focus on our roletoward a valley-wide approach to sustainability.

Finally, I thank the Regional Board for its wisdom,guidance and direction and complement our dedicatedstaff which each day strives to achieve the long-rangevision of the Regional District: fostering growth andnurturing lifestyle.


Harold Reay • CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER

MESSAGE FROM THE ADMINISTRATOR

We’re going green!RDCO washrooms

feature low flush toiletssaving 7-litres of water

per flush.

PHOTO

:KELLY

HAYES


VITAL STATISTICS 2009

BACK ROW (standing left to right) Doug Findlater, Jim Edgson,Michele Rule, Sharon Shepherd, Angela Reid, Keith Fielding, Larry Derrickson, James Baker.FRONT ROW (seated left to right) Graeme James, Duane Ophus, Robert Hobson, Kelly Hayes, Brian Given.

POPULATION (EST.) 2009REGIONAL DISTRICT 180,114 *CENTRAL OKANAGANWEST ELECTORAL AREA (INCLUDING IR’S) 12,532 **CENTRAL OKANAGAN EAST ELECTORAL AREA (INCLUDING IR’S) 5,631 **CITY OF KELOWNA (INCLUDING IR’S) 118,507 *DISTRICT OF WEST KELOWNA 27,161 *DISTRICT OF LAKE COUNTRY 11,051 *DISTRICT OF PEACHLAND 5,232 *HOUSEHOLDS 75,008 ***BUSINESSES 16,071 ****AREA 3,142.26 SQ. KMS

RDCO EMPLOYEES (FULL, PART TIME, SEASONAL, CASUAL) 138

* SOURCE: BC STATS JULY 2009** ESTIMATED FROM BC STATSUNINCORPORATED AREASPOPULATION ESTIMATE 18,163JULY 2009

*** SOURCE: FP MARKETSCANADIAN DEMOGRAPHICS2009

**** SOURCE: BC STATS APRIL 2009

� REGIONAL DISTRICT DEPARTMENTSChief Administrative Officer Harold ReayDevelopment and Environmental Services Manager Dan PlamondonFinance and Administration Services Manager/Treasurer Marilyn RilkoffParks Services Manager Murray KoppEconomic Development Commission Manager Robert Fine

REGIONAL DISTRICT BOARDDuring 2009, the Regional District Board met once a month, managing the wide variety of topics arising as part of localgovernance. Special meetings of the Board were called as required. The elected and appointed Board represents themember municipalities and the Electoral Areas that make up the Regional District of Central Okanagan.

2009 REGIONAL DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERSRobert Hobson, Chair Councillor, City of KelownaJames Baker, Vice Chair Mayor, District of Lake CountryKelly Hayes Director, Central Okanagan East Electoral AreaJim Edgson Director, Central Okanagan West Electoral AreaSharon Shepherd Mayor, City of KelownaGraeme James Councillor, City of KelownaBrian Given* Councillor, City of KelownaAngela Reid Councillor, City of KelownaMichele Rule Councillor, City of KelownaKeith Fielding Mayor, District of PeachlandDoug Findlater Mayor, District of West KelownaDuane Ophus Councillor, District of West KelownaLarry Derrickson Councillor, Westbank First Nation (non-voting)

*Councillor Charlie Hodge appointed byCity of Kelowna in October 2009 to theRegional Board with the passing ofDirector Given. Brian Given was theRegional District representative andChair of the Okanagan Basin WaterBoard, the Regional Boardrepresentative to the Okanagan FilmCommission, Sterile Insect Releaseprogram and the Regional HospitalDistrict Kelowna/Vernon Hospitalsproject Liaison Committee. Brian alsochaired the Regional Dog AdvisoryCommittee.

� WHAT WE DO...We are responsible for providing administrative and

financial services to the Regional District. This includesthe day to day operation of cash, invoice and utility billpayments, liaison with customers and suppliers as wellas ongoing financial planning with other departments toensure our financial projections and Performance BasedBudgeting targets are being met. We are alsoresponsible for the important area of Human Resourcesfor the Regional District.

FINANCETaxation for Regional District residents is slightly

different than for cities and towns. In accordance withthe Local Government Act, the law that governs theactivities of local governments, Regional Districts do nothave the authority to collect taxes directly from residentsor businesses. Instead, taxes for Regional Districtpurposes are collected by the Province and by themember municipalities. In addition to taxation, localservices received by some residents such as water andgarbage are funded through utility billings.

Tax revenues are used to fund a wide range ofregional services of benefit to everyone within theboundaries of the region, such as dog control, regionalparks, 911 services and recycling. Tax revenues are alsoused to provide local services such as fire protection,and community parks, to residents and businesseswithin the electoral areas of the Regional District.

TheRegionalDistrict alsocoordinates

funding for the Central Okanagan Regional HospitalDistrict to fund capital projects and issuesdebentures through the Regional Hospital DistrictFinancing Authority. The Regional Hospital Districtfunds a 40% share of hospital facility constructionand funding for the purchase of major equipmentfor facilities within the Central Okanagan.

As required by the Local Government Act,Financial statements for the fiscal year arepublished by March 31st of the following year. The5-year financial plans are adopted by the RegionalBoard by March 31st of each year. Both areavailable on our website.

Budget and Financial Plan

2009 HIGHLIGHTS� Worked with the Regional Board with respect to its

strategic planning, initiatives and goals to re-shapethe Regional District after the Westside municipalincorporation.

� Began providing financial services for OkanaganBasin Water Board.

� Began providing financial services for Sterile InsectRelease Program.

� Tangible Capital Asset Accounting Project.� Introduction of implementation of Purchasing Cards

for limited value purchases.� Continued to finalize the transfer of assets to the

District of West Kelowna related to services that weretransferred.

� Reviewed financial applications with the currentcomputer system to ensure that future needs will bemet.

� Upgraded Parks booking and cash receipts systemto Class.

� Upgraded Finance database engine.� Reorganized staffing requirements and

amalgamated positions and within the department.

2010 INITIATIVES� Continue to work with the Board with respect to its

strategic planning, initiatives and goals to re-shapethe Regional District after the West Kelownamunicipal incorporation. Incorporate these changesinto the Five Year Financial Plan and reporting.

� Upgrade Vadim Software to next version.� Finalize Tangible Capital Asset Accounting Project.� Begin working with Departments to develop Asset

Management Program.� Investigate Asset Management software needs.� Wherever possible, continue to streamline

processing, allowing staff to handle increasedvolumes with existing staff resources.


Marilyn Rilkoff • TREASURER/MANAGER

FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION SERVICES

BUDGET AND FINANCIAL PLAN 2009

GENERAL OPERATING/REVENUE FUND $50,418,298

GENERAL CAPITAL FUND $14,224,662


� WHAT WE DO...The people that make up the Regional District of

Central Okanagan are one of our most importantresources. As our Mission Statement says our friendlyand knowledgeable staff is dedicated to providing,effective and efficient services that meet the needs of ourcitizens, in a manner that nurtures growth, opportunitiesand prosperity. Maintaining and encouraging this highlevel of commitment is a key focus of the HumanResources Department.

We are currently administering approximately 130full, part-time, casual and seasonal employees. TheHuman Resources Department is also responsible forlabour relations, recruitment, training and careerplanning, employee health and safety, and WorkersCompensation regulations.

2009 HIGHLIGHTS� Provided employees with tools and support to deal

with the changing environment.� In consultation with the union (ALGEU - Association

of Local Government Employees Union), reviewedand evaluated the current method of updating jobevaluations and job ratings.

� Supported Health and Safety programs.� Ensured recruiting practices and approaches are

responsive to labour market changes.� Streamlined and improved processes, allowing staff

to handle increased volumes with existing staffresources.

2010 INITIATIVES� Investigate benefit options for volunteer fire

fighters.� Continue to provide employees with tools and

support to deal with the changing environment.� In consultation with the union, complete review and

evaluation of the current method of reviewing jobevaluations and job ratings.

� Continue to support Health and Safety programs.� Continue to ensure recruiting practices and

approaches are responsive to labour marketchanges.

� Wherever possible, continue to streamline andimprove processes.

Andrea Henderson • COORDINATOR

HUMAN RESOURCES

We’re going green!Regional District staffrecycles all alkaline andrechargeable batteries.

Dan Plamondon • MANAGER

Rhoda Mueller • CHIEF BYLAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER

� WHAT WE DO…The Development and Environmental Services

Department strives to support and enhance the highquality of life enjoyed by the residents of the CentralOkanagan. Our department provides services in foursections: Bylaw Enforcement, Engineering, Inspectionsand Planning.

BYLAW ENFORCEMENTSECTION

Our Bylaw Enforcement Section provides dog control,licensing and pound services throughout the CentralOkanagan and on behalf of member municipality as wellas bylaw enforcement for the Regional District of CentralOkanagan.

2009 HIGHLIGHTS� Adopted a bylaw to participate starting in January

2010 in the Inter-Community Business Licenseprogram along with 17 other local governmentjurisdictions throughout the Okanagan Similkameen.The program provides local businesses that work intwo or more participating jurisdictions, the option ofpurchasing an inter-community business licensewithout having to purchase a separate businesslicense for each.

� All Regional District bylaw staff participated in theLicense Inspector & Bylaw Officers AssociationConference which was held in Summerland this year.

� Added several new vendor locations for convenientpurchase of dog licenses.

� Received approval for increases in dog licensefees and ticket fines starting in 2010. Dog licensefees have not increased since the late 90’s and mostticket penalties have remained unchanged for 20years.

� Two new relief employees have been trained as DogControl Officers.

2010 INITIATIVES� Carry out maintenance repairs and upgrades at the

Dog Pound building for operational safety andefficiency.

� Upgrade the current Dog Control computerprogram.

� Investigate a convenient and secure online optionfor dog license purchases and renewals.

� Promote the licensing of unlicensed dogs byemphasizing the benefits and services of theprogram and the proactive efforts of dog controlofficers.

� Convert to a December 31st deadline for businesslicense renewals.

� Consider new approaches and training of new staffto raise public awareness, education and outreachefforts on the impact of alien invasive weeds.

� Review bylaws for efficiency and relevance tocurrent issues.


DEVELOPMENT & ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES

We’re going green!Almost all waste paper

and cardboard isrecycled in Regional

District offices.

2008 BYLAW ENFORCEMENT STATISTICS

BYLAWVIOLATION COMPLAINTS 89

UNTIDY/UNSIGHTLY COMPLAINTS 23

WEED COMPLAINTS 451

WEED ORDERS ISSUED 454

WEEDS CUT BY CONTRACTOR 96

INSECT COMPLAINTS 23

BUSINESS LICENSES 360

DOGS LICENSED 10,487

DOG COMPLAINTS 1,993

DOGS IMPOUNDED 774

DOGS EUTHANIZED 108

DOG BYLAWVIOLATIONTICKETS 401

Charlie Cameron • SUPERINTENDENT OF PUBLIC WORKS

Chris Radford • INFRASTRUCTURE COORDINATOR

� Engineering staff coordinate the delivery of day-to-day services required for community living such aswater, sewer, and street lighting. Engineering staff alsoreceive all public inquiries relating to works and services,manage the infrastructure extension projects and recorddrawings inventory, administer joint servicingagreements with participating local governments as wellas work closely with other departments to reviewapplications for subdivisions, variances, rezoning andbuilding permits.

Public Works coordinates the operation the WestsideRegional Wastewater Treatment Facility, the Regionalsewer collection systems, the five Regional WaterUtilities, and the Westside Landfill.

2009 HIGHLIGHTSGENERAL� Completed Stage 3 of a Liquid Waste Management

Plan (LWMP) for the Central Okanagan EastElectoral Area (Ellison/Joe Rich).

� Completed the transfer of the subdivision anddevelopment application files, monitoring andinspections and servicing and maintenanceagreements for those files to the District of WestKelowna.

MOSQUITO CONTROL� The Regional District received approximately

$233,000 for West Nile VirusPrevention through theMosquito Control program.�The Regional Districtprogram includes the City ofKelowna, District’s of LakeCountry, Peachland and WestKelowna and Westbank FirstNation. Approximately 250

potential breeding sites were treated. Thecatch basin program includes monitoring andtreatment of over 8,500 catch basins withinthe Central Okanagan. Public awareness,education and the progress of the West NileVirus were made through newspaper ads,leaftlets and a coordinated radio and televisionadvertising campaign with the Regional District

of Okanagan Similkameen.

WESTSIDE LANDFILL� Completed final sloping of some areas of the

Westside Landfill. The landfill closure progressedwith the diversion of curbside collection materials,commercial collected waste and biosolids in the firsthalf of the year. The transfer station pre-design willstart in early 2010 with construction completionanticipated for mid 2010.

WATER SYSTEMS� Successfully gained public support through the

public petition process for the provision of waterservice to the Upper Fintry/Shalal Road and Valleyof the Sun areas of North Westside Road.

� Received Towns for Tomorrow Grant of $400,000for wells and water source exploration for theproposed Upper Fintry/Shalal Road/Valley of the Sunwater system and engaged a consultant to proceedwith this assignment. Anticipated design of watersystem in 2010 with construction anticipated for2011.

� Completed the transfer of operations forSunnyside, Pritchard, Green Bay and WestKelowna Estates waters utilities to the District ofWest Kelowna.

� Adopted a new Water Systems Fees andRegulations Bylaw which will implement newsprinkling requirements in 2010.

� Engaged Engineering Consultant to review capitalrequirements for the Killiney Beach water system.

WASTEWATER SYSTEMS/WESTSIDE REGIONALWASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT (WRWWTP)� Developed a strategy and began implementation of

an odour control program for the Westside sewerfunction.

� Received Canada/BC Infrastructure Grant for $7.3million for Stage 3 Capital Expansion of the plantwith anticipated construction during 2010. Pre-design is underway.

� Engaged Engineering Consultants to review thefeasibility of sewer service for the Brent Road areaof Central Okanagan West Electoral Area and theWRWWTP Development Cost Charges (DCC’s) andthe Sewer User Fees.

ENGINEERING & PUBLIC WORKS SECTIONS



� Set in motion the detailed budget tracking onoperation and maintenance of sewage collectionsystems owned by Peachland, Westbank First Nationand West Kelowna.

2010 INITIATIVESGENERAL� Continue to seek financial assistance from outside

agencies, including provincial and federal funding aswell as Okanagan Basin Water Board funding forinfrastructure programs.

� Maintain and publish to the web the infrastructureas-constructed drawings inventory.

� Build-on, maintain, and publish to the web theinfrastructure GIS Databases.

� Review subdivision and development applicationsto ensure compliance to Bylaw 704.

� Review the 1994 Policy on the potential impact onservices (roads and fire protection) arising from re-zoning regarding Developer’s VoluntaryContributions.

STREET LIGHTING� Continue administration of the Scotty Heights street

lighting agreement with Fortis BC.

MOSQUITO CONTROL� Continue to provide the West Nile Virus Protection

program with provincial funding.

WESTSIDE LANDFILL�Develop and seekapprovals for the FinalClosure Plan at the WestsideLandfill property.�Cease active landfillingand disposal of solid waste atthe Asquith Road site.�Integrate operation of asolid waste and recycling

transfer station for the continued convenience ofWest Kelowna, Peachland and Westbank First Nationresidents as a future use at the site.

WATER SYSTEMS� Continue implementation of the Universal Water

Metering Program along with public awareness andeducation efforts regarding the benefits of reducingwater use and consumption.

� Develop a capital works upgrade strategy and asampling and parameter analysis procedure for allsystems.

� Develop a system acquisition policy.� Develop a wellhead protection plan for the Sunset

Ranch Water System.� Perform comprehensive reviews on the budgets

and user rates of all systems.� Improve and upgrade SCADA and

telecommunications equipment for the FalconRidge Water System.

� Design and Construct a water system for thecommunities of Upper Fintry/ Shalal Road/ Valleyof the Sun.

WASTEWATER SYSTEMS/ WESTSIDE REGIONALWASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT (WRWWTP)� Continue budget tracking on operation and

maintenance of costs with associated stakeholderinfrastructure.

� Review the sanitary sewer rates and DCC’s.� Upgrade lab equipment.� Further enhance odor control measures.� Continue providing sanitary sewer service and

fiscal accountability to the Westbank First Nation,District of Peachland and the District of WestKelowna.

� Implement the use of a computerized sanitarymodel in the daily operations and capital works plan.

� Design and construct Stage 3 Expansion at theTreatment Plant.

� Work with District of Lake Country and AECOM toensure that the septic facility can accommodate allseptic wastes in the RDCO area.

� Create a Biosolids Management Plan for materialsgenerated by the Treatment Plant process.

We’re going green!The Regional District

uses onlybiodegradable andenvironmentallyfriendly cleaning

products.


Rod Miller • COORDINATOR

2009 HIGHLIGHTS� Fire and Protective Services Coordinator hired and

began working with paid-on call fire departmentsserving Ellison, Joe Rich, North Westside andWilson’s Landing.

� Completed expansion and upgrade to RegionalRescue Communications System.

� Initiated community discussion regarding possibleprovision of fire protection services within theTrepanier Bench area of the Central Okanagan WestElectoral Area.

� Discussions regarding provision of fire protectionservices with proponent of the proposed Crystal Skiand Golf Resort expansion.

2010 INITIATIVES� Conduct a review of equipment, training needs and

requirements of each paid-on call fire department.� Maximize use of the FDM software for record

keeping for incidents and training and expand its useto record Fire Inspections and Property information.

� Develop and enhance current fire inspection forrural properties.

� Implement recommendations of RegionalCommunications Review.

� Implement recommendations of Regional RescueProgram Review.

� Enhance training and evaluation of paid-on call firedepartments. Training to include and evaluate all FireFighters in the Fire Fighter I module this year, thenFire Fighter II in the future.

� Consider the option of adopting a Regional FirePrevention Bylaw giving appropriate authoritiesburning regulations which would be consistentthroughout the entire Regional District including itsmember municipalities.

� Examine Provincial First Responder Program.Changes are coming in funding from the Province.Alternative funding sources may be required, ordiscontinuation of the program in some areas mayresult. Fire Chiefs Association of BC is lobbying tocontinue the program in its current state.

� Determine funding opportunities to implement someof the recommendations of the Fire Protection Plans.

� Plan for 2010 Wildfire season.� Agreements for automatic aid for the various

volunteer departments.� Comprehensive program for provision of services

throughout the Regional District as well as thepromotion of education and enforcement of fireprevention regulations.

� Work with the Regional District fire departments toenhance educational programs for fire safety inurban areas.

� Encourage and educate communities to Fire Smarttheir properties via mass mail-out and door-to-doorcampaigns where able.

FIRE AND PROTECTIVE SERVICES

We’re going green!All Regional Districtcomputer equipmentno longer in service isreused or recycled.

� Our Inspections Section staff ensures that all publicand private buildings are safe for their intended usethrough the enforcement of RDCO zoning bylaws andthe Provincial Building Code. We also evaluateapplications and provide recommendations to decisionmakers and we assist the public with an understandingand interpretation of land use regulations, applications,and processes. We also provide building inspections inthe two Electoral areas of the Regional District.

2009 HIGHLIGHTS� Building staff attended a training session in

Kelowna on “Airtightness” in ResidentialConstruction sponsored by Home Owner ProtectionOffice. This session was open to other localgovernments offices, building contractors’, designprofessionals’ and was well attended.

� Relocated office to the Planning Section in order toprovide an improved level of service for the publicby the Development and Environmental ServicesDepartment.

� Building staff attended a Construction InformationSession in Kelowna sponsored by the CanadianWood Council. This session was well attended byother local government offices, building contractors’and design professionals’.

� Building staff attended a three-day BOABCSponsored Building Code Education Seminar inRichmond. This session was attended by BuildingInspectors’ from throughout the Province as well asfrom people in the Construction Industry and fromthe private sector.

2010 INITIATIVES� Revisions to the RDCO Building Bylaw for the

benefit of the Regional District.� Continue the micro-film and digital management

program of completed Building Permits.

PLANNING SECTION

� Under the Planning function, we develop land useand inspection policies that provide guidance to electedofficials, developers, the public and other decisionmakers. We are also responsible for putting land useplans and environmental protection guidelines intoaction. Staff evaluates applications and providesrecommendations to decision makers. In the Planningsection we assist the public with an understanding andinterpretation of land use regulations, applications, andprocesses.

2009 HIGHLIGHTS� Maintain effective and regular communication with

the Regional Board, Provincial Ministries andAgencies, the public, developers, consultantsand contractors regarding current land use policiesand regulations.

� Initiate review and update of the North WestsideOfficial Community Plan in order to incorporateenvironmental Development Permit provisions to bein keeping with other parts of the Regional District.

� Initiated review of Development ApplicationsProcedures Bylaw No. 944, 2002, to develop andimplement discernable, consistent and fairprocedures for staff and applicants.

� Continually improve customer service by reducingresponse time for inquiries and ensuring limitedresources are utilized as efficiently as possible.

� Develop a ‘one counter’ service using cross-trainedstaff that can respond to all initial inquiriesconcerning development issues.

� Promote enhanced communication to the Public byupdating all brochures and information packages.

� Continue to promote a trained and highly skilledwork force by providing training and educationopportunities that result in technical or professional


Ray Paterson, R.B.O. • CHIEF BUILDING INSPECTOR

INSPECTIONS SECTION

2008 BUILDING INSPECTION STATISTICS

BUILDING PERMIT VALUE (ALL PERMITS) $13,950,329

BUILDING PERMITS ISSUED 164

SINGLE FAMILY DWELLINGS 40

TWO FAMILY DWELLINGS 8

RESIDENTIAL ADDITIONS 51

GARAGES,CARPORTS, SWIMMING POOLS 76

WOOD BURNING APPLIANCES 17

COMMERCIAL PERMITS ISSUED 4

FARM AND AGRICULTURE BUILDINGS 11

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designation - develop individual staff trainingstrategies.

� Complete text amendments to Zoning Bylaw No.871, 2000, to ensure that the bylaw remainsconsistent with Regional Board policy, interpretationissues are corrected and development trends arereflected.

� Introduced a new Conservation Land Zonesurrounding reservoir lakes to limit the scale ofresidential development to a sustainablemanagement level around drinking water reservoirs.

� Initiated review and update of Special Events BylawNo. 80 to meet the needs of the Regional District andother agencies to properly assess special events.

� Determine the scope, work plan and budget forreview of the Regional Growth Strategy.

� Participate in the Central Okanagan Major LakesRecreational Marine Facilities Study.

� Respond to complaints and natural environmentdevelopment permit compliance issues.

� Participate in the Okanagan CollaborativeConservation Program (OCCP) to coordinate and

facilitate conservation and stewardshipefforts such as the continuation ofForeshore Inventory Mapping and thedevelopment of the Okanagan EcosystemAtlas.� Continued stream restorationactivities on Joe Rich Creek.� Ongoing review of developmentplans associated with the Crystal Resortexpansion and a waterfront

residential/park development within the CentralOkanagan West Electoral Area known as ‘RockchildLanding’.

2010 INITIATIVES� Prepare a Foreshore Structures Bylaw with

member municipalities and Westbank First Nationin response to provincial direction to deregulateprivate moorages under 120 square meters in area.

� Develop Official Community Plans for LakeshoreRoad and June Springs Estates (Central OkanaganEast Area) and Trepanier and Brent Road Areas(Central Okanagan West Area).

� Annual review and update of Zoning Bylaw No. 871and Joe Rich Rural Land Use Bylaw No. 1195.

� Complete the update of Development ApplicationsProcedures Bylaw No. 944, 2002.

� Complete the review and update of North WestsideOfficial Community Plan in order to incorporateenvironmental Development Permit provisionsapplicable to other parts of the Regional District.

� Complete the review and update of the SpecialEvents Bylaw No. 80 for Regional Boardconsideration in early 2010.

� Develop a template to incorporate provisions forMigrant Farm Worker Housing into Zoning BylawNo. 871. This initiative will be completed inconsultation with the Ministry of Agriculture andLands, Agricultural Land Commission, and membermunicipalities.

� Update the Official Community Plans and Joe RichRural Land Use Bylaw to set targets forGreenhouse Gas Emission (GHG) reductionrequirements in accord with Provincial legislation.

� Initiate the process to update the Regional GrowthStrategy including assessing Greenhouse Gasemission reduction targets, policies and actions.

� Chair the Aggregate Pilot Project TechnicalCommittee in establishing a comprehensivemanagement strategy for the aggregate industrywithin the Central Okanagan. This committee willreport to the Aggregate Task Force which willoversee this project’s mandate - to make efficient useof aggregate, minimize land use conflicts andestablish land use designations to be incorporated inthe Regional Growth Strategy and Official Plans ofmember municipalities and electoral areas.

• Provide staff resource assistance to developinga concise document for considering sand andgravel extraction proposals.

� Groundwater Study Initiative - continuing effortsregarding groundwater protection planning includingreview of planning processes and tools to addressgroundwater quality

� Foreshore Inventory Mapping (FIM) - together withthe Okanagan Collaborative Conservation Program,finalize the update of the existing FIM database in thecentral Okanagan to provide one consistent databaseand enable foreshore analysis and planning in acomparable fashion by all jurisdictions and for theentire Okanagan Lake.

� Ongoing stream restoration and enhancement work atJoe Rich Creek including scoping and design workfor potential new projects along Joe Rich Creek.

� Complete the review and refinement ofEnvironmentally Sensitive Area ranking, criteriaand compensation to provide further guidance in thedevelopment of environmental impact assessments.

� Ongoing review of Regional District developmentapplications and Provincial referrals (e.g. CrownLand applications).

� Respond to complaints and natural environmentdevelopment permit compliance issues.

� Sensitive Ecosystem Inventory Mapping - Continuemapping sensitive ecosystem areas in the RegionalDistrict to ensure that land use decisions are basedon conservation values and to use as a base for thedetermination of Sensitive Terrestrial EcosystemDevelopment Permit Areas.

� WHAT WE DO…Everything you ever wanted to know about garbage

and recycling is available from the Regional WasteReduction Office. As a program of the Regional Districtof Central Okanagan, City of Kelowna, District’s of LakeCountry, Peachland and West Kelowna, the WasteReduction Office implements programs to help reducegarbage going to local landfills. Reducing wasteconserves natural resources, energy and space in locallandfills, protects the environment and saves future taxdollars.

2009 HIGHLIGHTS� Completed the roll out of the Curbside Automated

Waste Collection System which included more than150,000 carts to more than 50,000 homesthroughout the Central Okanagan. This program tookup the majority of Waste Reduction Office staff timein 2009. Some highlights from this specific programinclude:

• More than 60 presentations made to variouscommunity groups.

• Coordinated personal contact inneighbourhoods as more than 100 volunteerswent door to door during cart delivery.

• Held kick-off media events in each community.• Presented program updates to the staff andcouncils of all member municipalities.

• Answered more than 12,000phone calls and publicinquiries.• Attended more than a dozen

trade shows and communityevents to educate thecommunity about the newcollection system.• Completed more than

seventy-five interviews with local media.� Administered contracts for residential curbside

waste collection, Gypsum recycling, fluorescent lightand battery recycling, propane canister reuse, wastetransfer station service, recycling depot service,glass collection and recycling, and curbsiderecyclables processing and marketing.

� Amended Recycling Processing and Marketingcontract to ensure sustainability through alleconomic conditions.

� Amended Traders Cove and North Westside servicecontracts to factor in the longer waste transfer toGlenmore Landfill.

� Adopted a new Solid Waste ManagementRegulation Bylaw.

� Completed program reviews for all existing wastereduction programs to evaluate the effectiveness andidentify ways to improve them.

� Co-hosted a ‘Greening your Business’ workshoptargeting small to medium sized businesses. Theevent attracted over 80 business professionals andresulted in ongoing environmental initiatives in thebusiness community.

� More than 12,000 tonnes of recyclables collectedfrom households in 2009, about 8% less than 2008due primarily to the economic downturn.

� Conducted a waste audit for Okanagan College andseveral other Central Okanagan businesses.

� Master composter/recycling volunteers continued todonate hundreds of hours in promoting andeducating the community on waste reductioninitiatives.

� Hosted the third annual ‘Community 20 MinuteMake Over’ in April as a kick off to the annualCommunity Clean Up program. More than 2,000volunteers from 100 community organizations,businesses, business associations and schoolsparticipated in this successful community event.

� The fluorescent light and battery recycling programdiverted thousands of kilograms of hazardousmaterial from the landfill.

� Hosted a “drive-through” composter sale in aneffort to encourage backyard composting. The 1,300composters ordered were sold, over half of themwithin the first three hours of the sale.

� Co-hosted the 10th annual ‘Environmental MindGrind’ in April. Dozens of local elementary andmiddle school teams competed in the curriculum-approved environmental challenge; the winners wenton to participate in the Regional Play-Offs.

� Organized the 19th annual ‘Hazardous Waste RoundUp’ and diverted about 40,000 equivalent litres ofmaterials from being buried in the landfill.

� Coordinated the clean up of more than 20 localillegal dump sites.

� Worked with La Casa Lakeside Cottage Resort onits residential waste management.


Peter Rotheisler • SUPERVISOR

REGIONAL WASTE REDUCTION OFFICE

� Coordinated the closure of the Westside Landfill tocommercial traffic.

� Coordinated the design, production, and distributionof the 2009 and 2010 Living Greener Calendar.

� Researched and planned for a number of 2010initiatives including waste auditing, reuse events,waste reduction strategies, illegal dumping inventoryand reduction, and waste data tracking andreconciliation.

2010 INITIATIVES� Issue RFP or amend existing transfer station RFP

for hauling of waste from Westside Transfer Station.� Consult with North Westside Road area residents

regarding transfer station user fees and the option ofmoving to curbside collection for Traders Coveresidents.

� Research and implement a new commercial sectorwaste reduction, reuse, and recycling program.

� Implement a waste audit program for all sectors.� Research and develop a plan to make our curbside

collection system a more user pay system.� Develop and implement a paper and cardboard

reduction program.� Develop and Implement a regional reuse event.� Waste data reconciliation.� Illegal dump site inventory and clean up strategy.� Education professional to redesign our school

education programs.� Review Waste Reduction plans for major RDCO

events (event bylaw).� Improve Transfer Station signage.� Update and redesign website.� Research future of Hazardous Waste collection.

� Determine possible participation by La Casa incurbside or transfer station programs.

� Continue to provide public awareness andeducational programs to reduce waste in thecommunity.

� Continue to work with local non-profit organizationsto introduce a textile and fabric (old clothing)recycling program.

� Continue to assist with the closing of the WestsideSanitary Landfill and the development of aconvenience transfer station.

� Ongoing public awareness and education to ensurebenefits of the Curbside Automated Waste CollectionProgram and continue to providing informationthrough thousands of email and telephone inquiriesto the Regional Waste Reduction Office.

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� WHAT WE DO…The Information Services Department combines

Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and theTechnical support staff for the Regional District. Thefocus of the department is to oversee the integration ofcorporate applications and work with all departments toimprove the utilization of technology.

The Regional District of Central Okanagan providesGIS and geo-spatial data information to the District ofLake Country, District of Peachland, District of WestKelowna and the Westbank First Nation for the updating,processing and hosting of Core GeographicalInformation. This collaborative effort provides forsignificant financial savings and enables the utilization of“geospatial” information and technologies to play a vitalrole in enhancing public and private sector decision-making.

Our Geographical Information Systemsdepartment has continuously enhancedthe applications and services it provides -The GIS application performed over45,000 property searches! Applicationsincluded Emergency Response tools andthe “Election Helper” tool that integratedcard reader and GIS technologies.

Protecting the integrity and security ofInformation within the Regional District isa key component. External auditors testand evaluate our infrastructure and wework constantly to improve and keep orsystems as secure as possible.

2009 HIGHLIGHTS� Established and provided the Regional GIS Service.� Provided mapping and staff resources to the

Emergency Operations Center during TerraceMountain and area fires.

� Upgraded Cisco VOIP phone system.� Migrated servers to the Virtual Machine Architecture

and upgraded Server Infrastructure.� Completed a Security Audit with an action plan for

improvements.� Provided GIS and Information Technology services

to the Okanagan Basin Water Board and SterileInsect Release Program.

� Supported the new Curbside Automated SolidWaste Collection service.

� Worked with all departments to continue to enhancethe Website for the public.

2010 INITIATIVES� Assist the Regional GIS members in improving their

utilization of GIS technology.� Update the SAN (Storage) Infrastructure.� Upgrade the desktop software to Microsoft Office

2007.� Upgrade Server Operating systems to Windows

2008.� Upgrade Microsoft Exchange.� Evaluate new technology to enable the RDCO to

better serve the public through increased efficiencyand improved access to information.

� Implement training initiatives to better utilize thetools in place.

� Work with all departments to continue to enhancethe Website for the public.

Richard Bruneau • MANAGER

INFORMATION SERVICES

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created byplastic bags.


� WHAT WE DO…The Regional Parks Services administers 28 Regional

Parks (1,099.1 hectares) including one campsite undercontract with Ministry of Forests, 11 Central OkanaganWest Parks (17.8 hectares), 9 Central Okanagan EastParks (18.5 hectares) as well as recreation facilitiesincluding Ellison Heritage School Community Centre,Killiney Community Hall, the EECO (EnvironmentalEducation Centre for the Okanagan), and Joe RichCommunity Hall.

GRANTS AND DONATIONS� Received $2,276.20 from Union of BC

Municipalities (UBCM) Community TourismProgram Phase 2 for a travelling exhibit for theFriends of Fintry and construction of a RDCORegional Parks kiosk at Fintry Provincial Park.

� Received $15,899 from UBCM Community TourismProgram on behalf of the Okanagan Trail RidersAssociation.

� Received $36,464 from UBCM Community TourismProgram Phase 2 for the Central Okanagan EastElectoral Area to support the completion of twoAcquisition/Management Plans at Hydraulic Lake andBlack Knight Mountain. The plans are beingcompleted to support an application in acquiringthese crown lands and bolster an increase of tourismto the area.

� Received $42,500 from theRecreational InfrastructureCanada Program to completefurther trail upgrades on MissionCreek Greenway Phase II on theScenic Canyon Switchbacksection of the trail.� Approval of a $50,000 grantfrom UBCM / Ministry ofForestry & Range (MoFR)Protection Program for the

completion of a region-wide Community WildfireProtection Plan (project currently under way andexpected to be completed early in 2010).�Approval of $15,000 grant from UBCM / MoFRProtection Program for the completion of anOperational Wildfire Protection Plan for RegionalParks (project currently under way and expected

to be completed early in 2010).� Approval of $7,500 grant from Natural Resources

Canada (NRCAN) to aid the completion of theOperational Wildfire Protection Plan for RegionalParks (project currently under way and expected tobe completed early in 2010). This funding is inaddition to and in conjunction with the above$15,000 from UBCM.

� Approval of $235,000 from Western EconomicDiversification in Community Adjustment Funds forregion-wide fuel management treatments. Projectplanning currently underway. Funding continues toMarch 31, 2011.

� Approval of $97,000 grant from NRCAN MountainPine Beetle Hazard Tree Removal Program forRegional Parks. Planning for these removals iscurrently underway.

� Received $10,000 from Ministry of Environment tosupervise hazard tree removals along the Greenwayon their behalf. Project completed in spring 2009.

� Region-wide Community Wildfire Protection Plancontract awarded to B.A. Blackwell and AssociatesLtd with expected completion early 2010.

� Begin Regional fuel management project work asdictated by the Community Adjustment Fund (CAF)funding project at Beaver Lake and planning work atSpion Kop and on the Westbank First Nation (WFN)Community Forest.

REGIONAL PARKS� Regional Parks 2009 Program Guide viewed more

than 16,000 times on the Regional District websiteand 15,000 copies were distributed.

� Over 30,000 visitors stopped into the EnvironmentalEducation Centre for the Okanagan (EECO) duringthe year.

� There were four major EECO exhibits this year -‘Down from the Shimmering Sky: Birds of Prey’,‘Climate Change’, ‘Kokanee Salmon’ and ‘Meet YourWild Neighbours’.

� Various Regional Parks hosted well attended SpringBreak and Summer Junior Naturalists Day Campsgenerating revenue of $12,000.

� The popular ‘Go Fish’ program attracted over 3,000participants in Shannon Lake and Mission CreekRegional Parks.

Murray Kopp • MANAGER

PARKS SERVICES



� The Kokanee Salmon Festival at Mission CreekRegional Park included educational displays andactivities, and a giant salmon “tent”.

� Successful Interpretive programs such as ‘Take offon a Hike’ and ‘Take off on a Walk’, tours of theGibson House at Kopje Regional Park and theGellatly Nut Farm and programs at the EECO werewell received.

� The Gellatly Nut Farm Fall Harvest Market had 26vendors, 1200 visitors and the highest nut sales ever.A new event, the evening ‘Spooktacular PumpkinWalk’, proved popular as 160 visitors were treatedto lighted jack-o-lanterns placed along the nutorchard paths.

� The Regional Parks Donation Program sawgenerous donors provide one picnic table and threebenches to various Regional Parks.

� Continued to foster and partner with non-governmental organizations on Regional Parkprojects and regional initiatives including the Friendsof Mission Creek, Gellatly Nut Farm Society, CentralOkanagan Land Trust, Central Okanagan NaturalistsClub, Friends of South Slopes, Friends of Fintry,Friends of Kalamoir, Community RecreationalInitiatives Society and Father Pandosy Mission.

� Completed improvements to the Grasslands Trailwhich is part of Mission Creek Greenway Phase 2.Trail works included minor trail widening, treadstabilization, stair installation, drainageimprovements, and native landscaping.

�Completed the acquisition of two statutory right-of-ways (SRW’s), two portions of land and one parcelof land in conjunction with the Regional ParkAcquisition Program (Legacy Project). The twoSRW’s and one portion of land will become part ofthe Trepanier Creek Greenway Regional Park. Theremaining portion of land will become part of

Coldham Regional Park and the parcelwill become part of the future LebanonCreek Greenway Regional Park.� Initiated Crown Land Acquisition andManagement Plan process for HydraulicLake, Black Knight Mountain, TrepanierCreek, and Spion Kop. These plans arebeing completed to support anapplication to the province for acquisitionof these crown lands.� Improved maintenance and

operational access into Scenic Canyon whichinvolved grading and minor surfacing of an existingroadway.� Completed an Environmental Assessment forthe removal and replacement of the BertramCreek Regional Park fishing pier and explore thepotential for constructing an additional dock facilityat the boater’s beach within the park.� Currently in process to complete RockFeasibility and Detailed Design to determineappropriate solutions of boring a tunnel at kilometer12.0 of the Mission Creek Greenway (Pinch Point).

� Technical advice provided to the Father PandosyMission Committee in their preparation of a sitemanagement and restoration plan for the FatherPandosy Mission.

� Installed additional highway directional signs forRegional Parks in Kelowna, District of Lake Countryand West Kelowna.

� Completed improvements along the 1.7-kilometerKalamoir Regional Park Waterfront Trail. Trail workincluded widening the trail to improve access andsafety for pedestrians and cyclists.

� Replaced pedestrian bridge over Deep Creek inHardy Falls Regional Park. The bridge wasdamaged by a large tree falling on it.

� Upgraded and rebuilt the staircase at Mission CreekRegional Park.

� A new foundation was constructed for the barn atGellatly Nut Farm Regional Park.

� Pine beetle tree removals in Kalamoir, MissionCreek, Kopje, Gellatly Heritage and Shannon LakeRegional Parks using funding approved from NRCANin 2008 and received in 2009 upon projectcompletion ($92,790.35).

� Woodhaven Nature Conservancy Regional Parkreopened June 6th after completion of Hazard TreeAssessments by a consultant and restoration workby staff.

� Tree planting in Kalamoir Regional Park in areasimpacted by Mountain Pine Beetle removal.Approximately 40 one-gallon pine trees planted incutovers.

� Ongoing tree removal, fuel management, trailclearing and wood disposal for Mountain PineBeetle impacted trees in other Regional Parksincluding Scenic Canyon, Woodhaven, Kaloya,Bertram, Stephen’s Coyote Ridge, Mission CreekGreenway Phase II, Glen Canyon and Rose Valley.

� Collected 2,180-litres (21.8-hectolitres) ofPonderosa Pine cones from Kalamoir and ScenicCanyon Regional Parks and Dilworth Mountain forseed extraction and storage for future tree plantingneeds.

� Vegetation management project at Mission CreekRegional Park. This was a joint fuel managementand visitor safety project (Crime Prevention throughEnvironmental Design) completed by providing a

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contract to the Rutland Senior Secondary ForestryClass. This contract allowed the class to fundraise forneeded equipment and gain on the job experience.

� Site restoration work and tree removal initiated atGellatly Heritage Regional Park and Glen CanyonRegional Park. Park damage as a result of the 2009Glenrosa wildfire.

� Initiate a stewardship agreement with the Ministryof Environment for the protection of WesternScreech Owl habitat.

CENTRAL OKANAGAN WEST PARKS AND FACILITIES� Completion of the Westshore Estates Community

Park which included the creation of a parking area,playground, active turf area suitable for U8 soccer,

irrigation system, fencing, and aconcrete pad to be usedimmediately for basketball andpicnic shelter in the future. Thepark was completed incoordination and partnershipwith the North WestsideCommunities Association.� Installed an undergroundholding tank and constructed anew Men’s and Ladies’

washroom and landscaping.� Completed dock construction at the Killiney Beach

Park which involved the removal and replacement ofthe existing structure, and the addition of anextension to provide better and safer temporarydocking facilities supporting boat launch activities.

� Terrace Mountain forest fire danger forcedcancellation of Park Play Days planned for KillineyBeach Park and Fintry Beach Access.

CENTRAL OKANAGAN EAST PARKS AND FACILITIES� Completed the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM)

Community Tourism Program Phase 1 project forthe Central Okanagan East Electoral Area. The projectinvolved installing trailhead signage and constructionof a trailhead and parking on Goudie Forestry ServiceRoad in support of the Okanagan High Rim Trail andinstallation of suitable road signage to promote

visitor access to the Kettle Valley Railway.� Constructed chain link fencingaround the propane tank at EllisonHeritage School Centre.� Working with the Ellison Parks andRecreation Society to review theoperations agreement for Ellison HeritageSchool Centre.� Preparation for 2010 constructionand installation of geothermal heatingupgrade for Joe Rich Community Hall.� Park Play Days hosted in ScottyCreek and Three Forks parks.

2010 INITIATIVESREGIONAL� Complete the security caretakercabin in Scenic Canyon Regional Park atthe Hollywood Road South trailhead.

� Complete the planning for the Rim Trail at ScenicCanyon Regional Park.

� Provide ongoing interpretive programs including‘Go Fish’, Kokanee interpretation and JuniorNaturalist Day Camps.

� Continue to develop and market the heritage sitesGellatly Nut Farm, Gellatly Heritage Park, and GibsonHeritage House as heritage museums.

� Construct and display an exhibit on fire in theOkanagan ecosystem at the EECO.

� Continue to market services through the RegionalParks guide, website, and other media.

� Participate in and coordinate special eventsincluding Family Environment Day, EnvironmentalMind Grind, Kokanee Salmon Festival, and GellatlyNut Farm Fall Harvest.

� Formulate adult interpretation programs andincrease community involvement.

� Complete baseline Biophysical InventoryAssessments in Regional Parks

CENTRAL OKANAGAN WEST PARKS & FACILITIES� Assess options for Bear Creek boat launch to

upgrade the site when bridge construction iscompleted.

� Design and install recreational public pier at KillineyBeach

CENTRAL OKANAGAN EAST PARKS & FACILITIES� Design and install ‘Welcome to Joe Rich’ tourism

sign.� Upgrade heating and ventilation system at Joe Rich

Community Hall through installation of a geothermalsystem.

� Implement new operational lease agreement forthe Ellison Heritage School Centre.


Robert Fine • MANAGER

� WHAT WE DO…The Regional District of Central Okanagan, City of

Kelowna and the Districts of Lake Country,Peachland and West Kelowna fund the CentralOkanagan Economic Development Commission(COEDC). The COEDC provides assistance andservices to businesses and entrepreneurs whocall the Central Okanagan home as well as tothose interested in locating in the region.

The Commission’s volunteerAdvisory Board consists ofappointees from localgovernment, businessorganizations, andrepresentatives from a crosssection of business sectors.Members provide a valuablelinkage between the business

community and the organization orindustry sector they represent. TheAdvisory Board members providevaluable input on the state of theirindustries and advice to the staff ofthe Economic DevelopmentCommission.

Through the strategic planningprocess, the industry leaders andregional representatives whocomprise the COEDC Advisory Board

have recognized how the Commission’s emphasis onBusiness Enhancement, Investment Attraction andEconomic Development Facilitation are the moststrategic approach to facilitate economic prosperity inthe Central Okanagan region.

2009 HIGHLIGHTSBUSINESS ENHANCEMENTResearch in the field of economic development showsthe existing business base generates the majority ofwealth in a community. A strong and viable businessretention and enhancement objectives are fundamentalto a successful economic development strategy. TheCOEDC has made business enhancement activities themainstay of its programs and services for the past sixyears.

� Responded to over 16,000 inquires by phone &email.

� Approximately 400 companies attended COEDCeducational programs during the year includingprograms on Succession Planning, Social Marketing,Access to Capital, Export and Labour related issues.

� Increased awareness of COEDC programs andservices was addressed through 115 presentationsto business service providers and industry groupsthroughout the Central Okanagan.

� The Commission’s E-newsletter distributed weeklyto approximately 2,400 businesses.

� The Foreign Skilled Worker Program provided one-on-one assistance to more than 100 employerswanting to access immigration programs as onesolution to the skilled labour shortage in the Region,particularly in the tourism and hospitality sectors.

� The Foreign Skilled Worker Program has assistedapproximately 210 workers employed by localemployers of the region.

� A highly successful joint conference between farmersmarkets, agri-tourism operators, and small scalefood processors with over 140 participatingbusinesses.

� The Region’s Arts Cultural Tourism Officer workedwith more than 40 individual businesses during theyear providing one-on-one assistance and support tobusinesses in this sector.

� The Export Development Program provided supportto over 50 businesses in its first four months ofoperation (September to December) in efforts todevelop new markets and enable investmentreadiness.

INVESTMENT ATTRACTIONWhile the Commission worked for many years to attractnew businesses to the Okanagan, efforts shifted toattracting investment into existing businesses in thecommunity in 2005. This reflects the need for capital tofacilitate continued growth and expansion of the manysmall businesses that make up the Central Okanagan, aswell as the number of established niche markets andproducts that have developed in the Region.

� Marketing and awareness of COEDC’s programs andservices was maintained in the annual publishing of


ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION

Going green!Reduce your carbonfootprint: eat local

food; walk, car-pool oruse public transit andlower your thermostat

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the Economic Profile and the design of coreinvestment attraction marketing materials.

� A strategic marketing program aimed at attractinginvestment dollars to support development of a filmstudio in the Okanagan was implemented during theyear with the creation of the Arrowleaf Film CapitalVenture fund, to encourage more filming in theRegion and discussions with investors regardingpermanent film studio.

� Continued marketing the Central Okanagan as a placefor entrepreneurs to locate through EntrepreneurshipInvestment Forums, and the establishment of anumber of international businesses.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FACILITATIONEconomic Development Facilitation requires

developing an information infrastructure that ensureseffective communication with decision-makers at alllevels of government and with other communityorganizations. The COEDC works to bring a businessperspective to the decision-making process by theseorganizations, and the Commission must be aware of thefinancial resources available for business retention andgrowth. Effective facilitation also requires the COEDC towork with groups outside its specific region on growthmanagement strategies with regional benefits.

� The COEDC worked extensively to communicate theinfrastructure needs of the community. It remained

actively involved with the Airport AdvisoryCommittee and Air Attraction Task Force, andprovided ongoing liaison with regional, provincialand federal government decision-makersregarding airport-related issues. It continued torepresent the needs of the business communityon the Convention Centre Task Force, and theInternational via Highway 97 Alliance.� The COEDC facilitated informationalworkshops to both Okanagan College and

University of British Columbia Okanagan regardingoptions to recruit and retain International Students inthe Region.

2010 InitiativesThe 2010 Strategic Plan outlines the Commission’sobjectives and rationale within three primary focus areas- Business Enhancement (60% of the Commission’swork), Business Attraction (20%) and BusinessFacilitation (20%).

Industry sector research was completed as areference tool for the Central Okanagan EconomicDevelopment Commission Advisory Board for thepurposes of the 2010 Strategic Planning session. Theanalysis highlighted advantages of the Central OkanaganRegion, barriers to conducting business in the Regionand opportunities that exist to support business in all ofthe municipalities and unincorporated areas that make ofthe Central Okanagan Region. Information was gatheredfrom an industry roundtable attended by over 50industry sector representatives, information collectedduring the 763 one on one site visits conducted byCOEDC consultants (January 2008 to September 2009),industry association/organization reports and availablestatistics.

ENHANCEMENT� Develop and conduct a Business in the Park

education program on Access to Capital, SocialMedia, and R&D opportunities.

� Develop a strategy for attracting media with specialinterests in industry sectors to the Region as ameans of promoting business capacity in the Regionas it relates to the manufacturing, high technologyand agricultural sectors.

� Develop an inventory of local food products andpromote/facilitate inclusion of these products atregional events.

� Facilitate the development of a “Farm Fresh”produce guide and map based on a regional directfarm marketing inventory.

� Provide one-on-one assistance to agriculture andagri-tourism related businesses.

� Coordinate a Business in the Park program onAttracting and Retaining workers to the Hospitalityand Tourism sector(s).


� Showcase Okanagan Artisan companies and wineriesat the 2010 Olympics Media Centre.

� Provide one-on-one assistance to companies in theRegion to develop new markets and provide supportto enable investment readiness.

� Develop strategy and target markets for OkanaganTechnology Community Web Portal.

� Metabridge initiative - plan and develop visit bymajor US and Canadian companies to the Regionlooking to explore collaborative opportunities.

INVESTMENT ATTRACTION� Develop a “Work Where you Play” promotional

campaign including literature targeting the corporateretreat market in the UK through continued work onthe Air Attraction task Force.

� Facilitate links between local companies currentlyoperating in the Silicon Valley to encourage them toreinvest in Okanagan companies - using a“metabridge” theme.

� Revitalization through foreign direct investment;target potential migrants to the Okanagan forinvestment in available agriculture businesses.

� Facilitate the development of a full service FilmStudio in the Region (multi-year project).

� Promote the availability of airport expansion routeswhich support the needs of the local businesscommunity as well as recruitment of foreign directinvestment.

� Facilitate work with tourism development agenciesin efforts to make airport users aware of thebusiness investment opportunities in the Region.

� Publish the 2010 Central Okanagan EconomicProfile.

� Publish Community Economic Profiles for: District ofPeachland, District of West Kelowna, City ofKelowna, District of Lake Country and CentralOkanagan East.

� Publish Site Selection Tool Kit.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FACILITATION� Assist the District of West Kelowna in the

development of a long-term economic developmentstrategy.

� Continue work with the Convention Centre TaskForce.

� Support and facilitate the Young EntrepreneursProgram in partnership with School District # 23,Okanagan College and community partners.

� Provide a Central Okanagan presence on theHighway 97 International Alliance Board ofDirectors.

� Provide representation on the Provincial SmallBusiness Roundtable.

� Acting Director on the International EconomicDevelopment Council (IEDC) Board.

� Acting Director on the Economic DevelopersAssociation of British Columbia (EDABC) Board.

� Continue to work with the Airport AdvisoryCommittee.

� Foster relationship with and develop strategy toassist in commercialization program(s) at theUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan.

Going green!Did you know?

Up to 80% of everydaywaste materials can be

recycled orcomposted!


� WHAT WE DO…The Drug Policy Coordinator (first recommendation in

the 2005 document, Framework for Action; a Four PillarApproach to Problematic Drug Use and Related Issues inthe Central Okanagan), acts as a resource forgovernment and community organizations providingenforcement, harm reduction, prevention andtreatment services for persons impacted by substanceabuse. This target population, residing within the RDCO(population 173,173), may also be homeless (at risk),physically and/or mentally ill, prolific offenders and/orcompromised in other ways. The DPC promotescommunity health and wellness (safety) via assistingpartnership building between existing services - tostrengthen programs as well as to encourage, facilitateand support the development of initiatives geared to helpthis clientele and, our community at large.

2009 HIGHLIGHTS� Assessed and updated ‘action to date’ on the 2005

‘Central Okanagan Framework for Action’ detailinga Four Pillar approach, community-based solutionsto addressing problematic drug use and relatedissues in the Central Okanagan. A “B” average reportcard was shared with community.

� Maintained monthly Drug Policy AdvisoryCommittee meetings. The Advisory was formed tosupport the Drug Policy Coordinator role in ourcommunity as well as strategize on areas of focus forfurther community development/action - inaccordance with the four pillars framework.

This committee has 13 members - withrepresentation from Addiction Treatment/RecoveryServices, Health, Justice, Not-for-profits, Shelter,Outreach and Youth.

� Resource and support provided to local staff atRecovery Homes and Homeless Shelters.

� Formed the Central Okanagan Recovery HomeAlliance (CORHA) with representation from sevencommunity Recovery Service Providers. CORHAorganized a bus tour highlighting a sample ofrecovery homes in June 2009 for local politicians,community services managers and other involvedpartners.

� Organized training events for community (recovery)support/outreach workers on topics such as MentalIllness (Personality Disorders), Fetal AlcoholSpectrum Disorder, Eating Disorders, and BrainInjury. Training was co-facilitated on Mental Healthand Addictions as well as Grief and Loss.

� Offered educational sessions to various localservice providers such as the RCMP, Recoverycommunity, CMHA, etc. (Provided/attendedcommunity presentations via community requestsand identified learning needs.)

� Supported and assisted several organizations withapplications for funding proposals and grants.

� Organized a site visit to the Seattle SoberingCentre and 1811 Eastlake (Housing First resource) -sponsored by Karis Support Society.

� Planned National Addictions Awareness Weekcommunity events with CORHA, SINCO,BRAINTRUST Canada and Kelowna Alcohol and DrugServices.

� Assisted Brain Trust Canada and Canadian MentalHealth Association by acting as Field Supervisorfor a UBCO MSW Social Work student to evaluatetheir ABI Outreach program and facilitate thispracticum experience.

� Represented the Central Okanagan at theInternational Drug Policy Reform Conference.

� Awarded a travel subsidy to attend the BCAddictions Symposium - update on addiction trendsin British Columbia.

� Community liaison, advocate, mediator andsupport for local community service providers aswell as a resource for media, local government andgeneral public. - Share local Drug Policy action with

Christene Walsh • COORDINATOR

DRUG POLICY PROGRAM

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submissions to National group/newsletter.� Advisory and other committee/group involvement:

• Partnerships for a Healthy Downtown (PHD)• Mental Health Stakeholders Committee• Boys and Girls Club Advisory - Kelowna andWestside

• Stimulant Information Network of the CentralOkanagan

• PHAT-CO• Youth Advisory (MCFD and communitypartners)

• Partnership In Community/Collaborative Care(PICC)

• Sutherland House Advisory• Resource to Cardington Advisory• Gateway Mentoring Program (FASD) Advisory• Violence Against Women In Relationships(VAWIR)

• Other issue or specific/time limited groups

2010 INITIATIVES� Continue partnering efforts with community service

providers with the goal of maintaining, strengtheningand expanding initiatives created and/or supportedby the drug policy coordinator’s communitydevelopment role: assist community servicesproviders, government and others who help thoseimpacted by addiction and related issues.

� Maintain Drug Policy advisory and other groupparticipation.

� Maintain efforts to support progress on the 28Actions (from Framework for Action) such asSobering Centre as well as other recommendations.

� Resource to community at large/general public foreducation, advocacy and assistance aroundsubstance abuse and related issues.

� Assist community effort to develop a Criminal CourtDiversion program for mentally ill, addicted and/orbrain injured accused of crime (community courts).

� Complete a Recovery Home Sustainability paperwith recovery home service providers.

� Support sustaining CORHA - assist with springcommunity event.

� Join the District of Peachland Boys and Girls ClubYouth Advisory Committee.

� Form Addictions Services Coalition - link with thedeveloping Canadian Coalition (plan to transitionresponsibility to SINCO group for sustainability).

� Assist pending community housing initiative -Willow Bridge (CMHA) with program development.

� Continue advocacy for the construction of BCHousing initiative (previously announced but not yetfunded) ‘New Gate’ supportive housing.


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� WHAT WE DO…The Regional District Crime Prevention Program is

“Responsible for preventing all crime that didn’t occur”.Crime Prevention is tackled on two fronts: Crime

Prevention workshops and programs as well asVolunteer Programs offered out of our CommunityPolicing offices.

Our Crime Prevention Coordinator works inconjunction with the RCMP in examining crime trendsand implementing strategies to effectively combat theactivity, either through existing programs or the researchand development of new ones.

Some of the existing programs that are available tothe public are: Seniors Safety, Frauds & Scams, LossPrevention, Robbery Prevention, Crime Preventionthrough Environmental Design, and Safety in theWorkplace.

The Community Policing Offices and the CitizensPatrols host a number of volunteer based programssuch as Neighbourhood Watch, the Seniors ContactProgram and Child ID. The Citizens Patrols operate theSpeed Watch and Auto Crime Prevention programs.Both provide opportunities for dedicated volunteers whoare interested in making their communities andneighbourhoods safer. They make a major contributionto everyone in the Central Okanagan.

West Kelowna Community Policing Office- 27 volunteers, contributing over 5,000 hours annuallyPeachland Community Policing Office- 14 volunteers, contributing over 1,200 hours annuallyWestbank Citizens Patrol- 47 volunteers, contributing over 5,500 hours anddriving more than 30,000 kilometres annuallyPeachland Citizens Patrol- 22 volunteers, contributing over 900 hours and drivingmore than 4,700 kilometres annuallyLake Country Citizens Patrol- 16 volunteers, contributing over 900 hours and drivingmore than 4,000 kilometres annually

In 2009 our volunteer base saw a marginal increase from areduction the previous year. Our current volunteers continue tobe dedicated, committed, energetic and an enthusiastic groupin all the Community Policing Programs.

2009 HIGHLIGHTS� Citizens Patrol Symposium - in May the Central

Okanagan Citizens Patrol hosted its 12th annualTraining Symposium attracting Citizens Patrollersfrom all over the province. The three-day event waswell received and it was a great opportunity to attendworkshops, network and share with delegates fromacross BC. In May 2010 we will again host thisvaluable symposium.

� Graffiti Eradication Program - completed Phase II ofOperation Wrap where we continued to beautify anddeter graffiti by covering the traffic signal controlboxes throughout the Regional District fromPeachland to West Kelowna and in Lake Country.This was a joint project between the Ministry ofTransportation, Westbank First Nation and theRegional District of Central Okanagan.

� Block Watch - commenced the Block Watch CrimePrevention Program within the Regional District ofCentral Okanagan. This Crime Prevention Programis designed to help neighbors deter crime bywatching out for unknown, suspicious and illegalactivities in their neighbourhood. Its goal is toinvolve citizens in discouraging and preventing crimeat the local level and is a cooperative effort betweenpolice and residents in the fight against criminalactivity. Block Watch neighborhoods have now beenestablished in the electoral areas of the RegionalDistrict, District of Peachland, West Kelowna, LakeCountry and Westbank First Nation reserves andmore neighborhoods are now listed to become partof this outstanding program.

� West Kelowna Citizens Patrol receives NewWheels - In November, Mayor Doug Findlaterofficially presented the keys to a new van to WestKelowna Citizen Patrollers to assist with their duties.As the patrollers are the eyes and ears of the RCMP,the van will be used on a daily basis for patrols,Speed Watch Programs and special events.

2010 INITIATIVES� Continue to deter graffiti by having additional joint

projects with other stakeholders in the RegionalDistrict of Central Okanagan.

� Expand the Block Watch Crime Prevention Programto more neighborhoods in the Regional District ofCentral Okanagan.

Duane MacTavish • COORDINATOR

CRIME PREVENTION

� Recruit new volunteer members and increase ourvolunteer base.

� WHAT WE DO…Central Okanagan Crime Stoppers is part of an

internationally recognized program that empowers thepublic to fight back against crime. The coordinator’soffice is run out of the Kelowna RCMP Detachment.Some of the components of the program include

Mug$hots, Unsolved Crimes, Hot Cars, and CrimeRe-enactments. The coordinator’s office liaises withthe Society, whose volunteers assist withpromotion, fund raising, events and special projectsor programs under the supervision of a volunteerBoard of Directors. Through Crime Stoppers,

citizens are able to safely and anonymously reportknowledge of criminal activity by calling our 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) phone line or visiting our secure online webtip submission form at www.crimestoppers.net. Tipstersproviding information leading to an arrest and chargesare eligible for a cash reward of up to $2,000.

The Canadian Crime Stoppers Association isresponsible for supporting over 100 local CrimeStoppers Programs including the Central OkanaganCrime Stoppers.

2009 STATISTICS

2009 HIGHLIGHTS� Our media partners, CHBC-TV, CKOV-B103 FM,

Power 104, Capital News, Castanet, WestsideWeekly, and Lake Country Calendar continue tosupport Crime Stoppers with significant coverage ofUnsolved Crimes, Mug$hots, and other features as

required during the year.� Central Okanagan Crime Stoppers engaged Rocky

Mountain Marketing to conduct a very important andsuccessful direct door-to-door awareness and fundraising campaign on behalf of Crime Stoppers.

� The 11th annual Crime Stoppers Whillis-Harding/Western Financial Group community fundraising golf tournament was held at Sunset ranch inJune and was a huge success with over 100participants.

� Texting Tips is now possible. Please see our CentralOkanagan Crime Stoppers Web page at www.crimestoppers.net for details on this innovative program.

� Worked with School District No. 23 to furtherpromote Crime Stoppers in schools and prepare forintroduction of the text-messaging of tips.

2010 INITIATIVES� Central Okanagan Crime Stoppers website continues

to be a dynamic tool for Crime Stoppers and thepublic.

� The 12th annual Crime Stoppers Whillis-Harding/Western Financial Group community FundRaising Golf Tournament will be held June 18th,

2010 at Sunset Ranch.� For Student Crime Stoppers, wewant to get the education into theschools on the importance of youthreporting crime.� Crime Stoppers will continue toparticipate in a variety of events toadvertise, educate, promote andshowcase this valuable non-profit

community-based crime- solving program workingin conjunction with the police, the media and thepublic.

SPECIAL NOTE • The recent and continuing economicuncertainty has created an even bigger challenge to fundraise for all registered non-profit charities. The CentralOkanagan Crime Stoppers Society continues to enjoy thesupport of these major sponsors: Whillis Harding/Western Financial Group, Rocky Mountain Marketing,Stutters Construction Restoration, Central OkanaganBingo Association, Fortis BC, Capital News, Castanet,CHBC-TV, B103 FM and Power 104 FM, Lake CountryCalendar, and Westside Weekly.

CRIME STOPPERS

CENTRAL OKANAGAN

TIPS RECEIVED 775

ARRESTS MADE 19

CASES CLEARED 17

REWARDS PAID OUT $3,200

PROPERTY RECOVERED $1,400

DRUGS SEIZED $1,700,250

CANADIAN STATISTICS

ARRESTS 175,269

CASES CLEARED 236,736

REWARDS $14,063,330

PROPERTY RECOVERED $424,085,730

DRUGS SEIZED $2,641,633,509

WORLDWIDE STATISTICS

ARRESTS MADE 811, 643

CASES CLEARED 1,263,348

REWARDS PAID $94,250,391

PROPERTY RECOVERED $1,959,492,502

DRUGS SEIZED $7,106,709,603


Going green!Close drapes andblinds during the

hottest part of the daypreventing up to 65%

of the heat gainthrough windows.


� WHAT WE DO…The Regional District of Central Okanagan False

Alarm Reduction Program began in November 2005 withthe adoption of Security Alarm Bylaw No. 1081 by theRegional Board in response to a request from theKelowna RCMP. In 2006, the District of Peachlandjoined the program and the District of Lake Countrybegan participating in 2007. The District of WestKelowna has participated since its inception and in April2009 the Westbank First Nation joined the region-wideprogram for security alarm users.

Prior to the start of the program, false alarms hadbeen an increasing problem, draining police time andresources and increasing costs to public safety andalarm users. The program has resulted in a decline in thenumber of false alarms that the RCMP attends. Itssuccess is based on the requirement that all residentialand business alarm systems in the electoral areas and all

local governments in the CentralOkanagan must be registered,whether they are monitored by asecurity alarm system or not. If asecurity alarm system is notregistered, either the police willnot respond, or if they do, theowner is assessed a $100.00 fee.

The registration requirementensures that the owner isaccountable and responsible for

maintaining a well functioning alarm system. The FalseAlarm Reduction Program provides an opportunity forincreased awareness on the part of alarm users as manyfalse alarms are caused by inadequate training onsystem use, improper design and placement, lack ofscheduled maintenance and failing equipment. Duringthe summers of 2008 and 2009 the Okanagan had aninflux of salespeople encouraging citizens to install asecurity alarm system. While it’s estimated that thereare well over 20,000 security alarm systems in theCentral Okanagan, as of November 2009, a total of 6,754are registered.

The annual fee for a residential alarm system is $10while a commercial alarm system registration fee is $15per year.

2009 HIGHLIGHTS� Advertising was conducted throughout the year to

raise general awareness among alarm systemowners that they are required to register theirsystems for a nominal annual fee.

2010 INITIATIVES� Program Coordinator is a qualified False Alarm

Reduction Association Instructor and will continueongoing public awareness and education effortsregarding False Alarm Reduction Program benefitsand alarm system registration.

� Continue to work with alarm monitoring companiesto ensure residential customers and business clientshave valid alarm system registration.

� Continue to explore innovative ways of reducingfalse alarms.

� Encourage all security alarm users throughout theCentral Okanagan to register their system.

� Participate in False Alarm Reduction Associationconference in Buffalo, New York.

Judy Burns • COORDINATOR

FALSE ALARM REDUCTION PROGRAM

YEAR FALSE ALARM CALLS POLICE RESPONSE

2006 4,815 2,175

2007 4,463 2,134

2008 4,682 2,359

2009 4,682 2,359

� WHAT WE DO…In the past, the major focus of the criminal justice

system has been to apprehend, sentence, and rehabilitateoffenders, with little assistance offered to the victim. Toaddress this deficiency, Provincial legislation was passedin 1988 to formally establish the rights for victims ofcrime. The Regional District of Central Okanagan police-based Victim-Witness Services has become central toupholding those rights.

Trained Victim Services workers are dedicated toensuring that those impacted by crime and trauma arerespected, supported and informed. A crime or traumaticevent often takes place within a short period of time butfor victims and survivors the aftermath may includephysical and or emotional effects as well as financialhardship. Some common reactions experienced byindividuals may include feelings of shock, numbness,anger, confusion, and disbelief. Victim Services workersare committed to helping those impacted by crime ortrauma through the difficult transition towards reclaimingtheir lives.

The Regional District of Central Okanagan RCMPVictim-Witness Services provides emotional and practicalsupport, including but not limited to information onBritish Columbia’s Victims of Crime Act. It is a jointprogram of the Regional District of Central Okanagan,Ministry of Pubic Safety and Solicitor General, RCMP, andWestbank First Nation. The main office is located in theKelowna RCMP Detachment; however, Victim Servicespersonnel are able to utilize office space in the LakeCountry and West Kelowna RCMP Detachments to meet

with their clients.Office hours have been extended

to Monday through Saturday from7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Our 24/7 on-callservice for emergency police call outsremains a top priority. Four staff and acomplement of seven volunteers aretrained in carrying out the mandatedservices for the program.

2009 HIGHLIGHTS� Working in collaboration with and providing support

to the RCMP Domestic Violence Unit.� Victim Services personnel provided emotional

support, practical assistance, hand outs on trauma

reactions and recovery, transportation, child minding,and follow up during the Glenrosa and TerraceMountain Fires. Over 200 teddy bears were providedto children who were evacuated from their homes.

� Crisis call outs doubled from 56 in 2008 to 112 callouts in 2009.

� “Meeting Spiritual Needs in a Diverse Culture”presentation offered by one of our program volunteersat the Police Victim Services of British ColumbiaAnnual Training Symposium. Another volunteerreceived an award for her outstanding contributionsto Victim Services at the same conference.

� Ongoing training and community developmentspecifically in the respective areas of Suicide.

� Orientation and educational sessions to 26 RCMPrecruits.

� Volunteer mentoring program implemented to assistvolunteers in remaining current in the field of VictimServices.

� Active participation on a variety of communitycommittees to ensure effective referrals, non-duplication of service and further programdevelopment. These groups include the CommunityCritical Incident Response Model, Violence AgainstWomen in Relationships, Community Critical IncidentResponse Committee and Okanagan SuicideAwareness Society.

2010 INITIATIVES� Increase service delivery in the area of court

support by providing case specific information andact as a liaison with Police, Crown Counsel, courtsand corrections.

� Develop new program pamphlets and posters toincrease our program profile.

� Implementing the Self Care Funding initiative forVictim Services staff.

� Excel in the area of effective service delivery includ-ing crisis intervention services for police call outs.

� Explore educational opportunities for Victim Servicespersonnel to better serve their clients/community.

The Regional District of Central Okanagan police-based VictimWitness Services receives most referrals from the RCMP;however, self-referrals are always welcome. Our main office islocated at the Kelowna RCMP detachment, 350 Doyle Avenue.For more information call Victim Services at 250-470-6242.

Cary Berger • COORDINATOR

VICTIM-WITNESS SERVICES

2009 STATISTICS

NUMBER OF NEW CLIENTS 821

AVERAGEMONTHLY CASELOAD 310

NEW CLIENTS RESULTING FROMFAMILY VIOLENCE 202

CRISIS CALL OUTS 112

REFERRALS MADE 1,046

COMMUNITY OUTREACH 127



� July and August 2009 saw the Regional District ofCentral Okanagan Emergency Plan and EmergencyOperation Centre (EOC) activated to their highest levelfor the third time since the Okanagan MountainProvincial Park firestorm of 2003.

Three wildfires, simultaneously burning in the region,brought the well practiced Regional Emergency Plan andEOC into action initially supporting the West KelownaIncident Command which quickly became a UnifiedCommand of West Kelowna Fire Rescue and the BCForest Service.

It started mid-afternoon on Saturday, July 18th withthe reported Glenrosa fire forcing thousands from theirhomes. Later that evening, a second fire on the west sideof Rose Valley Reservoir along McDougall Rim causedfurther people to seek assistance from the CentralOkanagan Emergency Social Service program volunteersthat quickly set up a reception centre at Royal LePagePlace and days later with the support of School DistrictNo. 23 in Mt. Boucherie Secondary School. A section ofHighway 97 was closed in West Kelowna for three daysas a result of the Glenrosa fire resulting in EmergencySocial Service response and assistance to those displacedresidents from the Peachland Community Centre. At theheight of this pair of wildfires, an estimated 17,000 peoplewere forced from their homes, while thousands more hadto be prepared to leave on amoments notice if the fires grew.

While fire fighters from across the Central Okanagan,municipal and paid-on call supported their West Kelownacolleagues and BC Forest Service crews responding tothese growing blazes, a third fire was discovered on thatfateful Saturday in the forests in the north-west section ofthe Central Okanagan West Electoral Area. Known as BCFire K50720, this initially small blaze burning on severaldozen hectares was dubbed the Terrace Mountain fire. Inlittle over two weeks, this grew to cover more than 9,200-hectares and at its peak threat, resulted in the evacuationof approximately 2,500 residents, some of those twice,while another 2,000 were on evacuation alert. Initially,the evacuees were helped through the cooperation andassistance of North Westside Emergency Social Servicevolunteers and soon after by Vernon and area EmergencySocial Services volunteers and supporting agencies andmunicipalities. As the fire burned and days became weeks,Central Okanagan Emergency Social Services coordinatedand carried out their response, providing food, clothingand accommodation assistance to those in need.

More than 250 people representing every localgovernment in the Central Okanagan and supportingagencies like the RCMP, BC Hydro, Interior Health andSchool District No. 23 passed through the doors of theEmergency Operation Centre during the response to thethree fires. There were 88 news releases issued andseven media conferences held. BC Forestry Fire fightingranks were bolstered by hundreds of colleagues fromOntario, Alberta, Saskatchewan, California and Australiain their battles with the three fires. RCMP from theCentral and North Okanagan logged close to 10,000hours in patrols of evacuated areas and staffingevacuation boundary checkpoints.

Volunteers from Shaw Cable and the Red Cross quicklysprang into action and established a call centre for theregion. The public information call centre received 4,196calls between July 20th and 30th, keeping evacuees andconcerned citizens up to date on the latest information.

Finally, on August 14th, EOC staff got the break theywere looking for. Periods of heavy rain brought totalrainfall amounts of 25 to 35 mm to the area and awhopping 51mm of rain fell directly over the TerraceMountain fire area, setting a record for the rainiest dayon record in the City of Kelowna!

2010 INITIATIVES� Continue regular review and updating of Central

Okanagan Regional Emergency Plan and EmergencyProgram Bylaw, particularly based on feedback fromthe 2009 Fires Post Action Report.

� Spring Table Top Exercise for personnel involvedwith response to Regional Emergency program.

� Support and encourage ongoing EmergencyManagement and Response training for personnelassigned to Central Okanagan Emergency OperationCentre (EOC), despite funding cuts from theProvincial Government.

� Implementation of revised Call-Out and NotificationSystem for EOC personnel.

� Research the implementation of a Software Toolwith support of the Provincial Emergency Program.

� Continue efforts to ensure equal participation andrepresentation from all local government partnerswithin the emergency program.

� Continue efforts to raise public awareness andeducation regarding individual, family and businessresponsibility for emergency preparedness.

Rene Blanleil • COORDINATORJason Brolund • DEPUTY COORDINATOR

REGIONAL EMERGENCY PROGRAM – WEST KELOWNA COMPLEX FOREST FIRES

� WHAT WE DO…Police, fire or ambulance? Emergency assistance is

as close as your telephone 24 hours a day. The 911emergency telephone service is provided for residents ofthe Central, North and South Okanagan-Similkameen,Columbia Shuswap and Squamish Lillooet regionaldistricts from the 911 Communications Centre located inKelowna. The Regional District of Central Okanaganadministers the general operations of theCommunications Centre in partnership with the RCMP.Calls initially answered by operators at the Centre arethen transferred to the appropriate emergency responseagency dispatch centre: Police, Fire or BC Ambulance.

2009 HIGHLIGHTS� Planned, put into motion and hosted a meeting

where representatives from participating regionaldistricts attended and were provided withinformation regarding 911 primary service answeringpoint (psap) and secondary service answering point(ssap). A tour of the RCMP Southeast DistrictOperational Communications Centre (OCC) followed.

�Squamish Lillooet RegionalDistrict began participating inthe inter-regional 911 service.�Enhanced workingrelationship with the RCMP asservice provider to ensureseamless delivery of serviceand staffing.

� RDCO 911 staff participated in a variety of RCMPOCC appreciation events where RDCO 911 personnelwere recognized for their services. One employeereceived a commendation from the RCMP afterbeing nominated by their peers.

� Participation on the Continuous Improvement Team(CIT) of the RCMP Southeast District OCC. Thiscommittee is a non-governing body responsible foridentifying, proposing and implementing solutionsfor the OCC’s environmental issues.

2010 INITIATIVES� Renewal of 911 service agreements with

participating regional district partners.� Active Membership with British Columbia 9-1-1

Service Providers Association.� Coordinate efforts with stakeholders to ensure

effective delivery of services and staffing.

911 COMMUNICATIONS CENTRE

Going green!Draft proof around

doors and windows tokeep energy bills down

and heat inside!


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