If you step up… Over the years, there’s been a lot of discussion about community growth, economic development, and how decisions affecting the North Shuswap get made only by the CSRD. I’ve made some progress trying to change that but… Here’s the blunt truth: none of this moves forward unless people are willing to participate. One practical option on the table is the creation of a Local Community Commission (LCC) — a structure that allows residents to help set priorities,…
Last year, volunteers from outside the North Shuswap participated in a “First Impressions” exchange program, evaluating the community’s strengths and areas for improvement. Their insightful feedback offers valuable suggestions for growth. A plain-language summary is available, with a link to the full report on www.NorthShuswap.Info.
All the best from my family to yours this holiday season. Have fun, be safe and look forward to an excellent 2026!
On September 14th, voters in CSRD Electoral Area G (Sorrento, Blind Bay, Notch Hill) were asked a simple question: Should we establish a local service to help fund community halls through a small annual tax? The answer was a clear yes—with 68% voting in favour. This new Community Halls Service will now allow CSRD to collect about $11 ($16 maximum) per property per year, which will go toward helping local non-profit community spaces cover essentials like insurance, hydro, basic maintenance,…
Time to Go Our Own Way? Here’s something frustrating: even though Electoral Area F is included in the CSRD’s Economic Development and Tourism Service, for the second year in a row, the committee responsible for directing those funds—supported by the CSRD Board—has voted not to fund any actual Economic Development work. THIS IS NOT NEW MONEY. We’ve been paying into CSRD Economic Development and Tourism service for years. It has provided tourism promotion and studies about what is needed, but…
Kicker, October 1, 2025Speed Dating with Provincial MinistriesSeven meetings, fifteen minutes each, and plenty of asks for the North Shuswap I’m writing this column from Victoria, where the weather is spectacular and the city is showing off its best side. You might think I’m here on holiday, soaking up the sights — but no such luck. This is the annual Union of BC Municipalities conference (UBCM), where nearly 2,000 elected officials and provincial staff, including ministers, gather to learn, share…
We all know we need it. It’s been two years since the fire, and much of that time has been spent in discussions with our insurer and the Province over how much funding they can provide. Those conversations are still ongoing, but one thing is clear: there is no way to rebuild the Scotch Creek hall without borrowing funds. Anglemont’s new hall, based on the same design, will also require borrowing. Like many of you, I’m not happy with how…
As I sit down to write this on August 18, 2025, I can’t help but remember the Day of the Dragon two years ago, when fire tore through and razed so much of our community. We’re coming back, but recovery is proving slow and expensive. Still, the news isn’t all bad. Rebuilding is happening. As of early June, the CSRD had received 70 building permit applications for fire-destroyed buildings, and 59 had already been issued. Of those, 51 permits are…
We now have some results from our request to the board regarding a Local Community Commission that would have delegated authority over some of the services that the CSRD operates. I’ve suggested that Parks and Recreation along with Economic Development/Tourism be placed in local North Shuswap hands. The LCC discussion got on the CSRD regular agenda in June and the board approved the motion THAT: “the Board direct staff to look into opportunities for a Local Community Commission in Area…
The Columbia Shuswap Regional District (CSRD) is introducing a septic system rebate program in efforts to encourage property owners to maintain their septic systems and to help reduce the costs associated with septic maintenance. As part of the program, the CSRD will cover up to 75% of the eligible expenses for specific services, subject to a maximum amount. This shared investment approach can make septic system maintenance more accessible and affordable for property owners. Don’t delay Online applications for this…