Regional Board meeting highlights - Dec. 20

Inclusive Regional Governance Final Report approved
The Regional Board approved the Inclusive Regional Governance Final Report, which summarizes the areas of investigation and the lanes of decision-making for Westbank First Nation to become a full voting member of the Regional District Board. The report reflects years of collaboration between the Regional District and Westbank First Nation and supports reconciliation and more inclusive regional decision-making. The report will be submitted to the Province for further consideration.

Action underway on soil deposit and removal concerns
The Regional Board approved a notice of motion directing staff to develop a Soil Removal and Deposit regulatory bylaw for future Board consideration. The motion responds to resident concerns about soil being deposited in electoral areas during a period of high regional growth, and potential impacts on rural areas, roads and the environment. The proposed bylaw would establish clearer rules, improve oversight and strengthen enforcement related to where and how soil is deposited in electoral areas. Staff will report back with a draft bylaw in the new year, with the item expected to be brought forward to the Electoral Area Services Committee.

2026 Municipal Finance Authority appointment
The Regional Board appointed Director Tom Dyas to the Municipal Finance Authority with Director Patrick Van Minsel as alternate.

Development variance permit approved
The Regional Board approved a development variance permit for a retaining wall at 1663 North Westside Road. The variance allows for increased wall height and reduced setbacks, subject to conditions including a structural engineering review to ensure safety and compliance.

Development permit approved for wildfire-impacted property
The Regional Board approved a development permit for a seasonal cabin redevelopment at 1895 Banff Road in the Central Okanagan West Electoral Area. The project involves rebuilding a wildfire-impacted property with environmental protections, shoreline restoration, and wildfire hazard mitigation measures in place.

Short-term rental bylaw review to move forward
The Regional Board directed staff to begin public engagement and prepare draft bylaw amendments related to short-term rental accommodations in the RDCO’s East and West Electoral Areas. The proposed bylaw will modernize existing bylaws, align with provincial legislation and ensure a balanced approach that reflects the unique needs of rural communities. Public engagement is expected to begin in the new year. Learn more about the project at yoursay.rdco.com/short-term-rentals.

Spay, neuter and microchip program extended
The Regional Board approved an amendment to its agreement with the BC SPCA to continue the Spay, Neuter and Microchip Program through 2026. The program supports low-income families, animal welfare, emergency boarding, and the rehoming of unclaimed dogs.

FireSmart grant application supported
The Regional Board approved staff applying for up to $1 million in funding through the Union of BC Municipalities Community Resiliency Investment FireSmart program. If successful, the funding would support wildfire risk reduction activities across the region in 2026 and 2027, including public education, community engagement, and fuel management projects in parks and high-risk areas.

Starling Control Program service review received
The Regional Board received the 2025 service review for the Starling Control Program. The review found the program remains financially sustainable and continues to provide local grant funding to support agricultural operations affected by invasive starling populations.

Regional Board meetings
Regional District office – 1450 KLO Road, Kelowna (Woodhaven Boardroom

·         January 22 – 9:30 a.m. (Regular Board meeting)

·         February 5 – 8:30 a.m. (Committee of the Whole)

·         February 19 – 8:30 a.m. (Regular Board meeting)

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