Annual Report 2003

Nurturing Growth, Fostering Lifestyle Regional District of contents Central

1450 KLO Rd., , BC V1W 3Z4 Ph: 250-763-4918 Fx: 250-763-0606 Email: [email protected] www.regionaldistrict.com

Message from the Chair ...... 2 Message from the Administrator . . . . .3 provide so many recreational opportunities; Vital Statistics ...... 4 orchards and vineyards that provide a rural, Finance ...... 5 agricultural flavor and all the amenities Engineering ...... 6 associated with a thriving, urban centre. In fact, Regional Waste Reduction Office . . . .7 the Central Okanagan continues to be one of the Parks and Recreation ...... 8 most desirable places in which to live. It’s truly a Planning ...... 11 four-season playground, attracting tens of thousands of visitors each year. They come to Inspections ...... 13 partake in extraordinary powder skiing, lush golf Human Resources ...... 14 courses, world-renown wineries, fruit right off Economic Development Commission .15 the tree and fresh, clean air and water. It’s no Crime Stoppers ...... 17 wonder an increasing number of people turn a Crime Prevention ...... 18 visit to the Central Okanagan into their chosen Victim Witness Services ...... 19 place to live, work and play. Emergency Response Plan ...... 21 The Regional District of Central Okanagan includes the two unincorporated Electoral Areas of Ellison/Joe Rich and Westside, along with the “Nurturing growth, while fostering lifestyle.” member municipalities of the City of Kelowna, That’s the challenge facing everyone involved the District of Lake Country and the District of with the Regional District of Central Okanagan. Peachland. The mission of the Regional District The Central Okanagan is located along the is to help protect the quality of life for all citizens shores of , in the beautiful by planning for the future, while delivering Okanagan Valley of ’s Southern regional services in an efficient and cost effective Interior.The Regional District encompasses over manner. Services that are provided by the 314,000 hectares of diverse topography. There Regional District include water, sewer and are mountain peaks and beautiful sandy beaches. garbage collection to the Electoral Areas. As well, You’ll also find naturally forested areas that the District provides region-wide services such as garbage collection and recycling, 911, Regional Parks and the Emergency Response Plan that was brought into action during the

➢ Okanagan Mountain Provincial Park forest fire N District last summer. of Lake Country The Regional District Board of Directors is Westside made up of eleven elected and appointed Electoral Ellison/Joe Rich representatives from the Electoral Areas and the Area Electoral Area City of participating municipal government partners. Kelowna The Board normally meets every two weeks to provide guidance in managing the various

District of programs, services and issues that arise as part of Peachland local governance. page Regional District of Central Okanagan 2003 1 message from the chair Robert Hobson

Challenge, excitement partnership involving the Regional District, and exhilaration! Those Westbank First Nation and funding from the words can be used to Federal-Provincial Infrastructure Program saw describe 2003.The Okanagan the Casa Loma Sewer project move ahead. This Mountain Provincial Park will bring additional capacity not only for Casa firestorm, while many Loma residents, but also on First Nation lands. months ago, remains as The Regional District continues to strengthen the predominant event in our important relationship with the Westbank the Central Okanagan. I’m First Nation (WFN). WFN announced it will very happy with the way our community rose to contribute to the ongoing annual operation of the cause, handling the fire and it’s aftermath. the expanded Mount Boucherie Community This will, of course, continue to be a challenge Complex. Over the coming year, we will throughout 2004 and in the years to come. I continue to work closely with the WFN on a believe though, the event demonstrated the number of issues of mutual interest, such as the benefit of having a well-thought out and Okanagan Lake Bridge project. practiced Regional Emergency Plan and a Transportation will be a big issue during Coordinator (Kelowna Fire Department Assistant 2004. More money will be put into our transit Chief Sid LeBeau) who works with the talented system in order to restore service to previous and resourceful volunteers and staff from across levels and during the year, a long-term review the region. 2004 will see the Regional District will be undertaken into transit service. We will continue with a major fuel modification continue to have discussions with the Provincial program in our Parks. Government on the Highway 97 Corridor, an Another highlight of the past year was the important transportation backbone for the successful Mount Boucherie Complex Okanagan. Referendum. Not only will we have a wonderful In closing, I’d like to thank the army of facility to meet the needs of residents, but one residents who volunteer for Regional District that will also contribute to the economic future programs like Crime Prevention, Victim Services of the Westside. Kudos to the Mount Boucherie and in our Parks. Our community is a better Expansion Society, its Chair Rusty Ensign, the place because of your selfless dedication. I’d also Westside Directors and the hundreds of like to thank my fellow Board members for their volunteers who made this happen. tireless efforts on behalf of our citizens to make Partnerships were also a highlight of 2003. the Central Okanagan a better place in which to The Regional District, Peachland and Ministry of live, work and play. Thanks also to the staff and Transportation worked together to bring a new management of the Regional District who ensure on-ramp to the Okanagan Connector, which every day that we have the most effective and should be completed this year. Another efficient programs and services for all residents.

page Regional District of Central Okanagan 2003 2 message from the Wayne d’Easum administrator Chief Administrative Officer message from the administrator

This has certainly been a year of challenges for everyone living in the Regional District of Central Okanagan. Looking back on the year however, it’s pleasing to see how we came together as a community to meet those challenges head on. The devastating fire last summer certainly tested the mettle of not only our citizens, but also those people charged with providing a coordinated and unified response to the disaster. Our thoughts are with those of our neighbors With growth brings an increased demand for who suffered losses as a result of the fire. As a services. We continue to make progress in testament to the strength and resiliency of our building the infrastructure needed to support community,the rebuilding is well underway.Our those people who’ve chosen to call the Central Regional Emergency Response plan was put to Okanagan home. The second phase of the test and more than met the challenge with community sewers was completed in West the safe evacuation of almost 30,000 people. In Kelowna Estates and several other neighbor- many respects, the successful response is a direct hoods.Work was also finished on the $6 million result of the talent, commitment and co- sewer trunk linking Casa Loma and Westbank operation of everyone involved. It was truly a First Nation Reserve #9 with the Boucherie regional effort. While we hope that we never trunk system. This was a cooperative project have to mount such a response in the future, involving not only the Regional District and the should we again be put to the test, we’ll certainly Westbank First Nation, but also the Federal and benefit from our experience during the summer Provincial governments through their infra- of 2003. structure program. 2003 also saw Westside The Central Okanagan continues to be one of residents vote to support the Phase 2 expansion the most desirable places in which to live. Our of the Mount Boucherie Community Complex. Inspection Services Department processed We look forward in 2004 to breaking ground on almost 1,000 building permits during 2003, an the $5 million dollar project. increase of almost 20% over 2002. Those A clear objective of the staff of the Regional approved projects were valued at more than $70 District of Central Okanagan is to continue to million, compared with the $57 million in offer citizens effective and efficient programs projects receiving permits during 2002. The and services throughout 2004 and the years to residential construction market remains strong as come. more than 360 new homes were started last year, up slightly from the previous year.

page Regional District of Central Okanagan 2003 3 Regional District of Vital Statistics Central Okanagan

Statistics

POPULATION (EST.) 2003 Regional District 157,432* Westside Electoral Area (incl. IRs) 35,894 Ellison/Joe Rich Electoral Area (incl. IRs) 4,251 City of Kelowna (incl. IRs) 102,488 District of Lake Country 9,761 District of Peachland 5,038 Households 65,363* Businesses 12,609 ** Area 2,956.3 sq. kms RDCO Employees (full, part time, seasonal, casual) 149 *SOURCE: BC STATS JULY 1, 2003 **SOURCE: STATISTICS CANADA, NOVEMBER 2003

Regional District Departments Chief Administrative Officer Wayne d’Easum Director of Engineering Services Hilary Hettinga, P.Eng. Director of Financial Services Harold Reay Director of Human Resources Gary Leier Director of Inspection Services Kelly Roth Director of Parks and Recreation Services Bill Vos Director of Planning Services Ken Arcuri Economic Development Commission, Executive Director Robert Fine

Regional District Board The Regional District Board normally meets every two weeks, managing the wide variety of topics that arise as part of local governance.The elected and appointed Board represents the member municipalities and the Electoral Areas that make up the Regional District of Central Okanagan.

2003 - 2004 Regional District Board Members Robert Hobson, Chair Councillor, City of Kelowna Aaron Dinwoodie,Vice Chair Director,Westside Electoral Area Len Novakowski Director,Westside Electoral Area David Knowles Director,Westside Electoral Area Patty Hanson Director, Ellison/Joe Rich Electoral Area Walter Gray Mayor, City of Kelowna Bob Harriman Mayor, District of Peachland Rolly Hein Mayor, District of Lake Country Ron Cannan Councillor, City of Kelowna Colin Day Councillor, City of Kelowna Sharon Shepherd Councillor, City of Kelowna

Back row (left to right) B. Harriman, R. Hein, C. Day, S. Shepherd, A. Dinwoodie, L. Novakowski, D. Knowles. Front row (left to right) P. Hanson, R. Hobson, W. Gray, R. Cannan page Regional District of Central Okanagan 2003 4 Harold Reay Finance Director

Operations 2003 Capital Financing

In accordance with the Local Government Regional District purposes $1,959,644 Act, the law that governs the activities of local On behalf of municipalities $39,186 Accounting and governments, taxes are requisitioned from the Invoicing province and member municipalities who in Auditing turn collect them from residents and businesses. 2004 Operations Budget Budgeting The Regional District does not have the authority Employee Payroll to collect taxes directly from residents and Regional District purposes $35,699,315 Computer businesses. Information Services Tax revenues are used to provide a wide Utility Payments range of services for residents and businesses 2003 HIGHLIGHTS within the Electoral Areas, such as wastewater treatment, landfill operations, recreation, and Scanned accounts payable invoices are inspection services. online and accessible by Vadim users. Tax revenues are also used to provide Phase 1 integration complete of Recrea- regional services, of benefit to all within the tion Department online registration program. Central Okanagan, such as dog control, 911, Our External Web server has been set up. recycling, and regional parks. Conversion complete of files to MOA Some residents may also receive utility Records Management rules. bills for various services they receive such as water, sewer, and waste collection services. The Regional District coordinates funding 2004 HIGHLIGHTS for the Central Okanagan Regional Hospital District Expansion of online services where and issues debentures customers can check account balances etc. through the Regional Upgrading financial services software Hospital District Fin- Completion of Phase 2 of online software ancing Authority. The services allowing Accounts Receivable and Regional Hospital District payment options via the Regional District funds a 40% share of website. hospital facility construc- tion and funding for the purchase of major equipment for facilities within the Central Okanagan. The Regional District financial statements for the fiscal year ending on December 31 are published by March 31 of the following year, as required by the Local Government Act. Copies of the financial statements are available at the end of March each year. The Regional District five-year Financial Plan is first approved in draft form and will be adopted in March 2004.

page Regional District of Central Okanagan 2003 5 Hilary Hettinga Engineering P.Eng., Director

2003 HIGHLIGHTS area of Lakeview Heights to service approxi- mately 220 single family residential lots. Total Completed Stage One and Stage Two of the costs estimated to be $3.1 million. Casa Loma / Lakeview Sewer Service Area which Complete the Trepanier Bench Access Road includes the Casa Loma Collection System and at an estimated cost of $800,000.This project is Sewer Lift Station to service approximately 200 single a joint partnership between the RDCO, Fire Protection family residential lots. Total costs approximately Peachland, and Ministry of Transportation. Subdivision Bylaw $4.1 million. Complete the extension of sidewalks at Westside Landfill Completed the re-alignment of the Rose Valley Elementary School to improve safety Westside Regional intersection of Old Okanagan Highway and First for students.Total costs estimated to be $40.000. Wastewater Avenue.Total costs approximately $300,000. Complete design of Stage Three, Phase Treatment Plant Completed two small in-fill sewer projects Three of the Casa Loma / Lakeview Sewer Service Biosolids Composting Site in the Logan and Orlin Road neighborhoods to Area which includes a collection system in the Water and Drainage service 19 single-family residential lots. Total Anders Road area of Lakeview Heights and will Street Lighting costs approximately $135,000. service approximately 265 single family Regional Waste residential lots. Completed the Gellatly Road re-alignment Reduction Office including road widening, drainage works, curb Complete design of Phase One and Phase gutter, and sidewalk. Total costs approximately Two of the Glenrosa Sewer Service Area including $560,000. a collection system in the Webber and McIvor Completed the design of the Westlake Road areas and will service approximately 250 Road upgrade from Keefe and Arts Ponds to the single-family residential lots. intersection of Westlake Road at Horizon Drive. Complete design of the Applegreen Court This is a phased project that will be constructed and the Sussex Road sewer collection systems in conjunction with neighboring developments that will service a total of approximately 110 and as funds permit. single-family residential lots. Completed preliminary design for Commence construction of the major expansion of the Westside Wastewater Treatment expansion to the Westside Wastewater Treatment Plant. Plant.This will be a $12 million project.

Fire Services Fire Services

Provided assistance with Regional District Review automatic aid volunteer fire departments and administrative opportunities with adjoining staff in the Okanagan Mountain Park Fire fire departments. Completed design and are now in a Implement a Regional position to commence construction of new fire fire services prevention bylaw. halls for the Fintry and Wilson Landing Construct firehalls in the communities. Wilson Landing and Fintry Continued to work on a fire prevention communities. bylaw for the electoral areas of the Regional Finalize fire protection District. to the Brent Road community including construction of fire storage tanks. 2004 HIGHLIGHTS Review opportunities to provide fire protection to the Complete Stage Three, Phase One of the currently unprotected Upper Casa Loma / Lakeview Sewer Service Area which Ellison community. includes a collection system in the Collens Road page Regional District of Central Okanagan 2003 6 Regional Waste Carol Suhan Reduction Office Coordinator

2003 HIGHLIGHTS workshops. Twenty presentations were made to approximately 1,750 residents in our A participation study showed communities. A Go Natural booklet was that 92.5% of residents placed published. Waste Management recycling at the curb for collection Continued with business waste Garbage Collection over the eight-week study period. reduction initiatives: free visual waste audits Curbside and Depot Almost 9,000 tonnes of materials and recommendations for businesses, radio Recycling were collected in 2003 - an increase advertising campaigns and publication of a Composting of 8% over 2002 and enough to fill Commercial Recycling Directory and of bi- Education Sky Reach Place to the ceiling. monthly Wastewise@work newsletter. Staff Yard Waste The yard waste recycling programs once assisted 35 businesses set up recycling programs. Programs again collected more than 4,000 tonnes of Examined other jurisdictions’ commercial Sanitary Landfills materials, about double the amount collected in waste reduction strategies and facilitated focus Business Waste the first several years. Residents can place yard group research of businesses to determine Reduction waste at the curb for collection four times per barriers and attitudes about a recycling material Programs ban at local landfills. School Education year or bring it to the landfills any time of the Hosted first computer recycling event. 22 Programs year at no charge. Continued to promote the free Christmas tree drop off locations. tonnes of computers and other e-waste was Hosted the 12th annual Hazardous Waste collected for reuse or recycling. Round Up. Once again nearly 30,000 equivalent litres were collected. Rutland Senior Secondary Environmental Sciences Class, 2004 HIGHLIGHTS Mission Lion’s Club, Battery Doctors, Fuel Pro and Newalta Continue to work with the adjoining generously donated their time regional districts and major municipalities to and resources to make the consider alternatives to local landfills for long- event safe and successful. term waste disposal options. Co-hosted the fourth Continue to develop programs for further annual “Environmental Mind reduction of waste going to the landfills Grind” in April. Thirty including residential yard waste and commercial elementary, middle and high and construction wastes. school teams completed in the Develop and implement public awareness curriculum-approved programs to reduce waste in the community. environmental challenge. Staff Complete preparation for the Materials made 81 classroom presentations to more than Ban and implement the program. 2,000 students and to celebrate Waste Reduction Revise Solid Waste Management Plan to Week, hosted 16 school tours of Metro Materials submit to Ministry of Water, Land and Air recycling processing plant. Protection for approval. Illegal dumping remained static after a dramatic decrease in the last several years. In partnership with Integrated Career Opport- unities, staff cleaned 42 reported sites and did regular maintenance clean-ups. Approximately 1,350 residents collected tonnes of litter from our communities’ roadways and parks during the Community Clean Up promotion. Continued to partner with Water Smart and Regional Parks to host Go Natural Garden Party composting and water conservation page Regional District of Central Okanagan 2003 7 Regional Parks and Bill Vos Recreation Department Director

2003 HIGHLIGHTS Summary of Parks and Facilities

The Regional Parks and Recreation Regional Parks Department administers 28 Regional Parks Westside Parks and including two campsites under contract with Recreation Ministry of Forests (1,049 hectares), 100 Eastside Parks and Westside Parks (72.67 hectares), six Eastside Parks Facilities (13.25 hectares) as well as recreation facilities Education and Completed concept and site development Community including Ellison Heritage School Centre, the plans for the Gellatly Nut Farm in partnership EECO Centre, Mount Boucherie Recreation Relations with the Gellatly Nut Farm Society. Park Planning, Complex, Johnson Bentley Memorial Aquatic Launched an evening interpretive Design and Centre, Westside Seniors Centre, Westside Youth program at the amphitheatre in Mission Creek Development Centre and Webber Road Community Centre. Regional Park. Geographic Received a donation of a six hectare Information property from the Coldham family and created Systems Grants and Donations in 2003 Coldham Regional Park on Trepanier Road in Peachland. In 2003 grants and donations to the Closed many Regional Parks due to fire department totaled $268,842 including: hazard in July. These included Bertram Creek, Regional Parks $78,072 Cedar Mountain, Gellatly Heritage, Glen Canyon, Regional Park Land Donation $120,000 Kalamoir, Mill Creek, Mission Creek, Mount Westside Parks and Recreation $64,890 Boucherie, Rose Valley and Woodhaven. Staff $5,880 Bertram Creek and Cedar Mountain Regional Park were severely impacted by the Okanagan Mountain Park Fire. Regional Parks The Regional Board approved a safety and erosion control plan for Bertram Creek and All residents in the Central Okanagan contribute remedial work is underway including fencing, to the Regional Parks function. Here are details for removal of damaged timber, and erosion control. some of the projects completed this year: Implemented a dog park pilot project, Partnered with Central Okanagan which will run until April 2004 for a total of 12 Naturalists Club and the Central Okanagan Parks parks available to dog owners. and Wildlife Trust to construct a parking lot and interpretive kiosk at Robert Lake Regional Park. Completed parking lot at Scenic Canyon Westside Parks and Recreation Regional Park. Completed detailed bridge design for Residents on the Westside (Area Westside) Mission Creek Greenway Phase 2. contribute to Westside Parks and Recreation. Attended or hosted 26 special events Some of the projects completed this year including the Environmental Mind Grind, Family include: Environment Day, Fisheries Awareness Day and Produced and distributed four seasonal the Gibson House Strawberry Tea. editions of the Westside Leisure Guide. Produced and distributed Regional Parks Signed a Master Joint Use agreement with brochure. School District No. 23. Wrote weekly article highlighting Completed a referendum for Mount Regional Parks for Capital News from May to Boucherie expansion which was passed by a September. 73% majority (5,759 voters, 4,213 yes votes). page Regional District of Central Okanagan 2003 8 Hosted grand opening ceremonies for Engineering Department. Shetler and Avondale Community Parks and Cooperated with the City of Kelowna and Constable Neil Bruce Soccer Fields. Ministry of Forests to provide emergency Completed Phase I development of mapping at the Emergency Operation Centre Jonagold Community Park. during the Okanagan Mountain Park Fire. Started vegetation restoration at Eain Completed a business license application Lamont Park. program for Inspection Services. Upgraded fitness equipment and ameni- Completed a software needs assessment ties at Johnson Bentley Memorial Aquatic Park. for the Regional District offices. Implemented new registration and facility Completed Sensitive Ecosystem mapping booking system at Mount Boucherie. and provided technical support for the Ministry Expanded youth programs with Boys and of Sustainable Resource Management and Girls Club at Gellatly Bay Aquatic Park. consultants. Continued to work with contractors at Johnson Bentley Memorial Aquatic Centre,West- side Senior’s Centre, Webber Road Community 2004 HIGHLIGHTS Centre and the Westside Youth Centre to provide high quality recreation programming. Regional

Partner with the Friends of Mission Creek Eastside Parks and Facilities to complete planning, design, fundraising and development of Mission Creek Greenway Phase 2 Residents in Area Ellison/Joe Rich contribute in order to be ready for spring 2005 grand opening. to Eastside Parks and Facilities. Some of this year’s Complete Master Plan for Kalamoir projects include: Regional Park. Closed Three Forks Park and Philpott Trail Complete restoration of Bertram Creek in August due to fire hazard. Regional Park. Added two new dog parks as part of the Commence restoration of Cedar Mountain dog park pilot project which will run until April Regional Park. 2004. Complete five year communication plan. Complete detailed planning of Gellatly Nut Farm Regional Park if BC / Canada Infra- Geographic Information Systems structure grant is received. Complete Regional Parks Wildfire Completed the development for launching Management Plan. GIS application via intranet and internet. Complete fuel modification planning and Transferred zoning, OCP and map inform- implementation in Regional Parks with ation to NAD 83 (geographically correct assistance of Human Resources Development database) for the Planning Department. Canada crew. Transferred service bylaws to NAD 83 Produce and distribute Regional Parks (geographically correct database) for the guide.

page Regional District of Central Okanagan 2003 9 Eastside Parks and Facilities

Complete Philpott Trail project which was delayed by 2003 fire hazard park closure. Complete study of Joe Rich Hall heating, ventilation and air conditioning and implement recommendations. Complete Joe Rich Hall agreement with Joe Rich Ratepayers and Tenants Society. Complete paving of parking lot at Ellison Update website to include park mapping Heritage School Centre in partnership with the and other special features. Ellison Volunteer Fire Department. Complete a five year interpretation plan. Geographic Information Systems Westside Parks and Recreation Create a maintenance Complete and implement development program for the Engineering cost charges bylaw for Westside Parks. Department to track street- Develop and implement plan for lights, sewer lines and transit neighbourhood park development. stops. Undertake Phase I improvements of Complete an operation Gellatly Waterfront Master Plan. review and strategic plan to Upgraded park entrance and enhanced provide direction for GIS gazebo at Kinsmen Park. program. Initiated playground assessment and Implement the immed- upgrade program for Westside parks and facilities. iate recommendations from Commence Mount Boucherie Expansion the operation review and Phase II including developing detailed concept strategic plan which may plan, design and costing and construction as per include providing web-based 2003 referendum. access for staff to a variety of Develop Mount Boucherie Expansion day-to-day GIS applications, Phase III Concept Plan. commencing use of the RDID Develop Westbank Town Centre Park and unique identifier index and Recreation Sector Plan. improving documentation and Completed annual report card for Westside directions for using GIS Parks and Recreation Master Plan. applications such as metadata Update contracts for operation of (information about GIS data). Johnson-Bentley Memorial Aquatic Centre, Westside Seniors Centre, and Westside Youth Centre. Develop five year recreation programming master plan. Produce and distribute four seasonal recreation guides. Complete roof replacement at Webber Road Community Centre.

page Regional District of Central Okanagan 2003 10 Ken Arcuri Planning Services Director

2003 HIGHLIGHTS Environmental Planning

Planning Services Restructuring One of the fastest growing areas of the province, the Central Okanagan places a priority Regional Growth The operating structure of the Planning on protecting the quality of our environment Strategies Services Department underwent a comprehen- while managing growth and development. Official Community sive review at the conclusion of 2003. The Highlights include: Plans Planning and Environment Committee sup- Completed mapping all watercourses and Environmental ported staff’s recommendations to move the aquatic habitat for the Westside electoral area, Planning departmental structure to a team based approach using the Sensitive Habitat Inventory and Mapping Neighbourhood and for year 2004. inventory standards.The inventory focuses on Concept Plans detailed watercourse information and will lead Development to the long-term protection of our water quality Applications Hillside Development Guidelines and overall health of aquatic ecosystems. The Regional Stream Restoration Crew, in New Hillside Development Guidelines are partnership with the City of Kelowna, completed being prepared in consultation with the Regional several stream restoration and enhancement Environmental Advisory Committee, Advisory projects on McDougall, Smith, Bellevue and Mill Planning Commissions and members of the Creeks as well as along Okanagan Lake. development community.Once approved, guide- In partnership with the Engineering lines may allow development on slopes greater Department and the BC Ministry of Sustainable than 30%, subject to the issuance of a Develop- Resource Management initiated a strategic water ment Permit regulating road design, visual resource management plan for the five com- quality, hazard reduction, environmental protec- munity watersheds of the Westside - Peachland tion, safety and erosion control measures. Creek,Trepanier, Powers, McDougall and Lambly Creek watersheds. When completed in early 2004, the plan will provide direction to future Westside Official Community Plan land use designations, water allocations, and operational decisions. The first draft of the Westside Official Completed the Joe Rich Creek Channel Community Plan consisting of detailed policies Assessment with the cooperation of the Ministry and development permit guidelines is expected of Transportation, City of Kelowna, Black early in the New Year. By the end of 2003, after Mountain Irrigation District, Riverside Forest extensive public consultation, Products Ltd., Gorman Bros. Lumber Ltd. and staff was completing the Ministry of Water, Land and Air Protection. detailed objectives, policies, The Central Okanagan Environmental and development permit Advisory Committee continued to advise and guidelines in preparation for assist the Regional Board in the protection of our the public release of the first common natural heritage and to ensure that our draft. communities are planned to provide for environ- mental sustainability and community health. Westside Population (incl. Reserves) Brochures YEAR TOTAL 1981 15,000 Brochures for applications and application 2002 35,500 processes were developed to provide inform- 2023 +/- 50,000 ation in an understandable and useable way to Anticipated applicants and the public page Regional District of Central Okanagan 2003 11 Website 2004 HIGHLIGHTS

Bylaws, applications and a layout for the Consideration of optional land use and website were developed in order to provide user- servicing plans for “Goats Peak” neighbourhood friendly access to information and bylaws. of the Westside Work will commence South Mount Boucherie Concept on a “Smart Transit” strategy Development Plan funded by Federation of Canadian Municipalities as a This concept development plan project pilot project in the develop- was concluded. An Official Community Plan ment of sustainable transit amendment bylaw contains the site planning business plans. layout and considerations that were resolved, Planning Services Depart- identifies outstanding items, and indicates the ment will participate with the actions required to obtain further input and Westbank First Nation and resolve those issues. provincial agencies in the review of the Network Road Plan for the Westside and Shannon Lake West Concept ensure that future corridors Development Plan will effectively link to the proposed new Highway 97 The Terms of Reference were developed Okanagan Lake bridge. and background information compiled. The Finalize the develop- project was withdrawn at the wishes of the ment approvals manual initi- property owner involved. ated in 2003. Finalize the Westside Official Community Plan Westbank Town Centre Plan review. Conclude the Ellison Official Community The Terms of Reference were developed. Plan Review initiated in 2003. The project was delayed as other options for Continue mapping watercourses and discussions with the Agricultural Land Commis- ecosystem habitat in electoral areas, using the sion were explored. In the fall of 2003 the Terms Sensitive Ecosystem Inventory and Sensitive Habitat Inventory of Reference were updated and confirmed with and Mapping standards. both the Agricultural Land Commission and the Continue to work with local stewardship Regional District.The project is now in its initial groups on stream restoration projects and stages. support community stewardship initiatives. Continue to promote our Storm Drain Marking Kits in partnership with the City of Ellison Official Community Plan Kelowna, the Okanagan Nation Fisheries Review Commission and Cloverdale Paint. Publish the Sensitive Ecosystems Inventory. The draft Terms of Reference is complete. Publish the Westside Sensitive Habitat Inventory The project was delayed by the summer wildfire and Mapping report. and the need to allocate staff to review wildfire hazard reduction methods in development approvals. The review of the Ellison Official Community Plan will begin early in 2004.

page Regional District of Central Okanagan 2003 12 Kelly Roth Inspection Services Director

2003 HIGHLIGHTS

Maintained service levels in the building inspection area by employing an additional Building Permits building inspector to help manage the increased and Inspections service demand caused by increased Dog Control construction levels in the community. Services Continued to microfilm additional Weed and Insect completed files to protect records. Control Developed dog control policy amend- 2004 HIGHLIGHTS Bylaw Enforcement ments that were adopted by the board and area Business Licenses Employ an additional building inspector municipalities that created a seamless dog to help maintain service to an area that is control service in the area. Stricter regulations for experiencing continued increasing construction dangerous dogs were also implemented. activity. Continued to work with the City of Complete the study and recommendations Kelowna to develop policies for problems with to area local governments about methods to trees and other vegetation. prevent future wildfire disasters in our com- Developed a new service for Prohibited munities. Animal Control for the Westside Electoral Area, Continue to microfilm completed build- District of Peachland and the City of Kelowna. ing permit files. Commenced a project to determine Review building bylaw and inspections methods for preventing wildfire disasters in our policies and procedures. communities. Work with the Dog Advisory Committee Incorporated wireless technology into dog to ensure that dog regulations continue to be control bylaw enforcement. appropriate for the challenges presented by the management of dog control issues. Incorporate wireless technology into build- ing inspection/bylaw enforcement procedures. Continue to provide inspection services to the public in a timely, fair and cost effective manner.

2003 Building Statistics Inspection Services Statistics Building Permit Value, All Permits $72,621,212 Bylaw Violation Complaints 184 Building Permits Issued 998 Untidy/Unsightly Complaints 274 Single Family Dwellings 376 Weed Complaints 326 Mobile Homes 28 Weed Orders Issued 394 Two Family Dwellings 63 Weeds Cut by Contractor 40 Multiple Family Dwellings 63 Insect Complaints 96 Commercial Permits Issued 24 Business Licenses Issued 742 Industrial Permits Issued 28 Dogs Licensed 8,793 Institutional Permits Issued 9 Dog Complaints 3,151 Dogs Impounded 1,229 Dogs Euthanized 306 Dog Bylaw Violation Tickets 367 Line of Vision/Nuisance Tree Complaints 165 page Regional District of Central Okanagan 2003 13 Gary Leier Human Resources Director

2003 HIGHLIGHTS

Prepared a Staff Development Policy for approval of the Regional Board. Assisted with the personnel needs of the Labour Relations Emergency Operations Centre. Employee Health Completed renovations to the Human and Safety Resources Department in order to improve staff Freedom of confidentiality. Information Organized and ran a Referendum into the 2004 HIGHLIGHTS Risk Management expansion of the Mount Boucherie Community Information Centre. Implement the Staff Development Policy. Systems Negotiate the renewal of a collective Emergency Disaster agreement with SARDCO (Staff Association Plan Regional District of Central Okanagan). Victim Witness Complete a study into the feasibility of a Services joint fire dispatch centre. Crime Prevention Crime Stoppers Present a formal offer and complete the 911 Emergency purchase of public properties on the Westside. Implement digital file management protocol. Run a "Blackberry" trial.

Implemented a new orientation process for new employees of the Regional District. Came to a tentative agreement with the RCMP as to future staffing levels for the 911 service.

page Regional District of Central Okanagan 2003 14 Economic Development Robert Fine Commission Executive Director

2003 HIGHLIGHTS from firms that have participated in this program. Business Retention Re-designed the EDC website with a new domain name – investkelolwna.com – providing a Business Retention EDC’s Business Retention and Expansion wider range of information about the Region in and Attraction Program, EDC’s core program for 2003, resulted a more user-friendly manner. Resource Library in 190 on-site business visitations and follow-up Completed the template design for EDC’s Economic and assistance provided to approximately 70% of first online newsletter to be launched in Demographic those companies. The BRE has also enabled EDC January, 2004. Information to identify common issues impacting Central Business Okanagan businesses, assess the performance Facilitation and relevancy of the EDC and identify new Business Attraction business opportunities in the Region.The results of the program were regularly communicated to Responded to more than 8,000 walk-in, the media and other organizations providing phone, mail and email inquiries into the EDC assistance to business. office. Produced the first EDC business EDC worked closely with a number of directory, 100 Reasons to do Business in Kelowna and the new arriving companies to the Okanagan prim- Okanagan Valley, which profiles companies arily in the manufacturing, service and tech- interested in expanding their market beyond the nology sectors prior to their decision to locate in Okanagan. The directory is a key vehicle for the Central Okanagan. As well, EDC provided promoting the valley at trade events and consultation and guidance to a wide range of responding to outside requests for information clients from individuals looking to start a about the business community. business in the Okanagan, to larger companies EDC took a lead role in determining the and a number of call centre delegations. financial impact of the Okanagan Mountain Marketed the Okanagan at major inter- Park Fire by surveying Central Okanagan national trade shows including CORENET, the businesses in a timely manner during the first premier site location and real estate show; two weeks of September. The survey identified cdExpo and COMDEX, major technology shows, the types of companies most affected by the fire and the Annual Winter Meeting of the Inter- and provided a rationale for the fire impact cost national Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) estimate to the business community as a whole. Worked extensively with Kelowna This information was presented to government Airport seeking out year round Toronto service from the municipal to the federal level in order and using the Airport as a marketing asset in to identify specific forms of assistance. selling the Okanagan story Formed EDC’s first Business Advisory Completed the first phase of a program to Board, consisting of volunteers from the busi- ensure consistent branding of the Kelowna and ness community willing to provide guidance and the Okanagan Valley through the formation of a advisement to local businesses under the EDC marketing committee that will work closely with banner. such organizations as the Kelowna Chamber of Developed the foundation for a Partners Commerce and Tourism Kelowna. Program aimed at providing a welcoming Continued to increased EDC’s profile both environment for employees new to the Region inside of and outside of the Central Okanagan. and their spouses/partners in an effort to retain Kelowna and the Central Okanagan was profiled skilled employees. as “open for business” on Garth Turner’s Investor Continued to provide support to a group Television aired on Global, Prime and Canadian of former Western Star Suppliers in conjunc- Learning Channel in November, and profiled in a tion with the Industrial Adjustment Service. week long in-depth series of articles in the There has been a 72% increase in employment Vancouver Sun. Canadian Business declared page Regional District of Central Okanagan 2003 15 Kelowna the best place for business in British conducted in conjunction with the Downtown Columbia in its October issue. Continued weekly Kelowna Association. The information gathered radio program with Dave Pears on CKOV and will provide the basis for a second Business monthly appearance on the station’s Let’s Talk About Opportunities directory. It, as well as bi-monthly columns in the With the completion of Cluster Analysis Okanagan Business Journal. The EDC also made through the Okanagan Innovation Forum in presentations on the local economy an what EDC early 2004, EDC’s expects to shape its key is all about at more than 40 events throughout business attraction activities around the the year. outcomes. As well, we will focus on suppliers to Provided ongoing support to the our existing manufacturing base to seek Okanagan Film Commission in its efforts to relocations to the Central Okanagan.We will also market the Okanagan as a potential film promote the Region’s cost competitiveness with production location and build essential infra- the release of the KPMG Competitive Analysis in structure, including opening a film production which Kelowna will be compared to 116 other studio in Kelowna. communities around the world. Worked closely with Okanagan Explore and develop University College to help it establish full new retail opportunities for university status, and develop an International Peachland and the Westside Students Program as a means of marketing the through a Retail Analysis that Okanagan. will identify consumer needs and unmet opportunities in these areas. Retail oppor- Facilitation tunities in Peachland, Westside and Lake Country will also be Partnered with the Okanagan Science and promoted through EDC’s Technology Council to interview 100 high participation at the Inter- technology firms on the opportunities, national Council of Shopping challenges and changes associated with the Centers Annual Winter Okanagan High technology sector, an update of Meeting. the original 2001 study. Partner with Agri- Provided representation on the newly cultural Advisory Committees formed Olympic 2010 Committee to draw in the valley to create an attention to the economic opportunities for local expanded direct Farm Market businesses associated with the upcoming event. Tour program to highlight Continued to support the Young Entre- what farms are doing to preneur’s Program and the Kelowna and promote direct farm market Westbank Business Excellence Awards. sales. Based on the interest shown by a number of local manufacturing and technology 2004 HIGHLIGHTS companies at an Export Café in 2003, identify opportunities to continue to bring such Building on the success of the Business companies together to share experiences, Retention and Expansion program to date, EDC opportunities and knowledge related to export will continue to survey and visit with Central development. Okanagan companies and provide appropriate Implement the Partners Program created follow-up assistance. Companies in the in 2003 aimed at retaining skilled employees by Agriculture, Manufacturing, Retail/Service and holding quarterly meetings for newcomers to Tourism sectors will be included, and a specific the area. survey of Downtown Kelowna businesses will be page Regional District of Central Okanagan 2003 16 Central Okanagan Bruce Baron Crime Stoppers Coordinator

Program Description Powerhouseprint Media Consultants first place for the Central Okanagan Crime Crime Stoppers is the most successful Stoppers magazine. community based Crime Fighting program in 99.9 Sun FM Best Radio Public Service Crime Stoppers the world.There are more than 40 Crime Stopper Announcement for Student Crime TIPS Line Program in the Province of B.C. The Central Stoppers Anti-Drugs, Anti-Bullying. Student Crime Okanagan Crime Stoppers Program was recently Stoppers TIPS recognized as the “Most Productive Program in Line B.C.” 2004 HIGHLIGHTS Reward Payment Central Okanagan Further develop the Partnership with the Crime Stoppers’ 2003 HIGHLIGHTS R.C.M.P. School Liaison Officers, Student Crime Board Stoppers, Drug Free Zones. RCMP Liaison Central Okanagan Crime Stoppers reached Engage R.C.M.P.Auxiliary Police officers in another significant milestone when we received the Drug Free Zones. the 10,000th tip on the Crime Stoppers Tips Line Work with School District Safe School 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). Committee. Central Okanagan Crime Stoppers and six Develop School District “Student” Safe of our Media Partners received first place awards School Committees. from BC Crime Stoppers for various media Community Fund Raising Events: programs during the year: The 7th Annual Crime Stoppers Golf 99.9 Sun FM for Best Radio P.S.A’s for Tournament June 25th Student Crime Stoppers Anti-Drugs and The 6th Annual Crime Stoppers Dinner Anti-Bullying. and Auction Jan 31st. CHBC-TV for Best T.V. Crime Reenactment. The Daily Courier Best Print P.S.A. for 2003 Statistics weekly feature of “Mug$hots” The Capital News Best weekly article for 800 tips - up 8% from last year “Crimes of the Week” 40 wanted persons arrested - down 20% CKOV Radio for Best Support of Crime 102 cases cleared - up 21% Stoppers for continuous features: Hot Cars, $1 million in drugs seized - down 175% Crime of Week, and Promotions for Tips $63,050 in property recovered - down 253% Line. Powerhouseprint Media consultants for the production of the Central Okanagan Crime Stoppers magazine. At the recent Crime Stoppers International Training conference in Melbourne Australia, The Central Okanagan Crime Stoppers Program and Media Partners received three first place awards: CHBC-TV for Best T.V.Promotion for the Central Okanagan Crime Stoppers Annual Community Fund Raising Golf Tour- nament. CHBC-TV also took a second place for the feature on the Central Okanagan Crime Stoppers 15th Anniversary.

page Regional District of Central Okanagan 2003 17 Mike Cain Crime Prevention Coordinator

2003 HIGHLIGHTS Sept. 25-27th the 25th Annual BC Crime Prevention Association Symposium was hosted May 2-4th the Central Okanagan hosted in Kelowna at the Grand Okanagan Resort with the 7th Annual Citizens Patrol Training more than 450 delegates attending. This con- Symposium at OUC attracting 180 delegates ference is the foremost training symposium in Community Policing from all over the province. The symposium has Western Canada attracting police officers, crime Regional Citizens become well know throughout the province for prevention and community policing profes- Patrol providing a wide variety of seminars and sionals, as well as a wide variety of community Crime Prevention workshops to volunteer groups. agencies and volunteers from Canada, the United Presentations States, and England. The hard work and Assistance for dedication by our local community policing Community volunteers helped make this Symposium one of Groups and Businesses the most successful in recent years. One of the Volunteer Services highlights of the symposium is the Solicitor Auto Crime General Community Safety and Crime Preven- Prevention tion Awards. This year we are quite proud that Speed Watch two awards came to the Central Okanagan: Program The Provincial Community Crime Prevention and Safety Award was presented to the Westside Citizens Patrol Society for its 20 years of exemplary leadership in this area. July 2003 edition of the BC Crime The Interior/Kootenay Volunteer award Prevention Magazine featured the Central was presented to Mina Jean Smith of Okanagan Speed Watch Program, including Peachland. Mina Jean is the volunteer pictures of the volunteers on the job. manager for the Peachland Community This past year the RCMP moved the Policing Office as well as the Peachland Westside Community Policing Office up the Citizens patrol. Mina Jean has made the street to a new and more serviceable building. outstanding contribution of 33 years of There are now over 30 police officers working volunteer service in a variety of capacities out of this facility with the continued assistance helping make Peachland a safer place to and dedication of 27 volunteers. The old build- live. ing is being utilized for RCMP storage, and as the base of operations for the Westside Citizens Patrol. The Citizens Patrol volunteers repainted, re-carpeted, and installed some new siding on the face of the building.

page Regional District of Central Okanagan 2003 18 Cary Berger Victim-Witness Services Coordinator

Program Description

Our police-based victim services program provides emotional support and practical inform- Victim and Witness ation to victims of crime or trauma (sudden Support death, suicide, fatal motor vehicle accidents, and Information on disasters) in the Kelowna detachment policing Court and Police areas (including Lake Country). Our goals Procedures include reducing the overall impact of victimi- Crisis Intervention zation and assisting clients with matters relating We continued to work with our Volunteer Services to the criminal justice system. and Referrals community partners to ensure an appropriate delivery of service when working one on one with clients or providing services in a 2003 Statistics community response such as participating on panels for the Youth Suicide Awareness Forum Volunteer Hours 3546 and Coping with Public Tragedy forum. Active Caseload 1635 School District No. 23 provided Victim Brief Service Contacts 458 Services with training in Critical Incident Stress Crisis Call-Outs 60 Management through the Justice Institute and Crime Victim Assistance Program Forms 41 continues to partner with us in our Critical (since June) Incident Stress Management committee. Victim Impact Statement Forms 5 We had the Victims of Crime Act and (since June) Victim Services phone number printed on the Domestic Violence Emergency 2 back of RCMP business cards. Response Alarms Our involvement during the Okanagan Mountain Park Fire included a variety of tasks and duties from the beginning of the evacuations 2003 HIGHLIGHTS to our role in the Recovery Center and the Unmet Needs Committee. Program staff, volun- We received an increase teers, and an additional four Victim Services in funding for the Kelowna workers from the Lower Mainland provided Detachment policing areas and assistance. Lake Country satellite office Victim Services provided emotional and due to the new funding practical support services, referrals, and written formula set out by the Ministry information at the Reception Centers that of Public Safety and Solicitor included daily check-ins with the RCMP at the General. Emergency Operations Center and Emergency One of our V.S. volun- Social Services. In addition, we assisted two teers has committed to work psychologists who were at the Emergency Thursday mornings at the Victim Operations Center to formulate a plan for the Services office in the Lake notification of homeowners who lost their Country RCMP satellite office. homes. A part-time assistant Victim Services attended two invitation- coordinator was hired and only community meetings for affected home- started in the position on April 1. owners at Trinity Baptist Church providing crisis Ten new people were and non-crisis intervention and we worked with recruited, trained, and security others from our community to provide the best cleared bringing our year-end possible services during these difficult situations. total to 29 volunteers. Sometimes it meant just listening, letting those page Regional District of Central Okanagan 2003 19 affected know someone cared, providing a shoulder to cry on, problem solving, or making a few phone calls to family members for individuals who felt uncomfortable doing so. Overall we provided choice and hope.We let our community know there will be assistance to those affected whether it is needed immediately, in the short term, mid term or long term. Victim Services also helped with the various bus tours where families were taken back

into their neighborhoods after the devastation BATKE EVAN COURTESY PHOTO providing support and information regarding Our extensive involvement with this event stress and reactions to trauma. would not have been possible without the We set up an information booth at relationships we have established in our com- Skyreach Place to provide emotional and munity and the continued support we receive practical assistance, referrals, literature, and teddy from the Regional District of Central Okanagan, bears to children or others affected by the fire. City of Kelowna, RCMP, Emergency Social Services, and the many other service providers and professionals we work with in our community.

2004 HIGHLIGHTS

To increase program usage regarding court support services. This includes assisting with victim impact statements, court orientation, and court attendance. Increase self referrals

PHOTO COURTESY EVAN BATKE EVAN COURTESY PHOTO Increase service delivery hours with staff and supervised volunteers. During our involvement, Victim Services Establish protocols with other victim provided 700 teddy bears, 20 trauma blankets, serving agencies and 125 gyro rings. Ongoing training with victim issues and Staff and volunteers marched in the victim services response. Celebrate Kelowna Parade to show support and ongoing commitment to our community. We continue to assist the City Recovery Center with additional staff and volunteer support while actively participating on the Unmet Needs Committee.

page Regional District of Central Okanagan 2003 20 Regional District of Regional Emergency Plan Central Okanagan

The Regional Emergency Plan is coordinated by the City of Kelowna Fire Department on behalf of the Regional District, the City of Kelowna, the District of Lake Country and the District of Peachland. The Plan makes provisions for the community in the event of any emergency such as flooding, forest fires, airplane crashes or other catastrophes. Officials from each member municipality,

including the Regional District, RCMP, fire BATKE EVAN COURTESY PHOTO departments, BC Ambulance, Interior Health field, were part of the second largest peacetime Authority, School District No. 23, public works, evacuation in Canadian history, with up to transportation, communications and emergency 30,000 residents forced from their homes by the social services volunteers meet and practice the ever menacing fire.When the threat passed, they plan, which also includes activating the were allowed to return in an orderly manner.The Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) in the main Emergency Plan also takes into consideration the Kelowna fire hall. Recovery Effort, which is underway and will be After years of tabletop exercises, mock perhaps for a year or more. Since the fire, all disasters and small field operations, the Regional involved with the regional response have been Emergency Response Plan was put to its most de-briefed and their suggestions for improving challenging test in 2003 with response to the the Plan have been put into place. This will Okanagan Mountain ensure through continued practice (or in the Provincial Park forest event it’s needed to deal with another fire. During the summer, emergency) that the citizens of the Central the fire spread across the Okanagan can count on a quick, efficient and south slopes an inside effective unified response. the boundaries of the Regional District and City of Kelowna.While a valiant fight was waged against what became known as “the fiery dragon”, in the end, 238 homes were lost. However, no lives were lost and no serious injuries were suffered through the three-week firefight. In fact, the hundreds of professionals and volunteers who carried out the plan in the

page Regional District of Central Okanagan 2003 21