Empowerment Update August 2
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 F with delegated powers to be discussed.”
We now have the results of that request in the form of a staff report. While the report hasn’t ruled out an LCC entirely, it’s taken a soft “no” position. The tone is: “We hear the concern, but we think we can address it with less structural change.”. The report is well-intentioned and technically accurate for the most part, but the conclusions lean toward organizational convenience rather than community empowerment. The risks cited are manageable, and the recommendation overlooks the central request made by residents: a voice that matters.
I’ve posted the report along with a summary, critique and proposal on the NorthShuswap.Info website and you can find it here. https://www.northshuswap.info/ce-resources/
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10 thoughts on “Empowerment Update August 2”
Why would the CSRD want to give up any of their jobs? It seems like we think we have more choice than what we do.
The question is not ‘would the CSRD want to give up their jobs?’ it’s ‘Do we want the responsibility and authority to make these decisions locally and for ourselves?’
I suppose it would take a great group of people with knowledge of our community’s needs. Always a challenge. The CSRD doesn’t necessarily have these things either It could be a better difference to have change and see how things work out.
Thank you, Jay Simpson,
For this comprehensive and forward-thinking response. It’s clear that the intent behind the Local Community Commission (LCC) proposal is to give Area F residents a stronger, more democratic voice in shaping the services that directly affect our daily lives.
The CSRD staff report raises valid logistical points, but as you’ve rightly pointed out, those challenges are not insurmountable especially when the payoff is improved transparency, accountability, and community control. The LCC model doesn’t replace the CSRD, it works within it to better reflect the priorities of our residents.
What stands out most is the call for real community engagement, not just more advisory committees, but actual decision-making power through elected representation. If we want to improve service responsiveness and rebuild trust in our regional governance, we need to look at solutions that go beyond status quo structures.
Aligning the referendum with the 2026 provincial election is a smart move both practical and cost-effective. Most importantly, it gives the people of Area F a chance to weigh in on their future.
Let’s open this up for broad public discussion. Whether you’re for or against the idea of an LCC, your input matters. Let’s make sure this isn’t just a boardroom conversation but a true community decision.
Excellent response Patt, thank you. I agree with all your points.
The problem is that small groups seem to be able to get the things they want done without the knowledge or consent of the majority. We saw this with the tax increase for the SC medical centre, the purchase of new land for the new SC fire hall and the road rescue. Most the people I talked to didn’t know anything about any of these. Part of the problem is that too many people here don’t care enough to get involved. Then the CSRR uses this to their advantage by using the AAP to pass whatever they want. AAP’s should be used in reverse with the 10% needed to pass new tax increases.
Part of the problem is the lack of public meetings, and the advertising thereof, to discuss these projects.
Democracy is supposed to be majority rule, not minority as has been the case.
Should the board approve moving forward with this there will be much public discussion, along with OCP and Parks plans.
You know Eugene, you often comment on my posts but what I’ve found is that you never have any actual views on the issues. You don’t provide your opinion, nor any suggested alternatives if you don’t agree with my position. Why don’t you try engaging with the issue instead of just (pick your own word).
Thank you Jay! I completely agree with your stance on this important matter and so appreciate your efforts to allow us to be heard in a meaningful manner! Keep up the good work!
It would seem the the CSRD doesn’t want to let any control go to the residents and possible counsel that would directly disagree with the way they want to control things without actually doing anything to benefit the residents of the North Shuswap/ Seymour Arm.
We need a structured organized counsel that will have power, and use the rights of the residents to forward our own agenda and not the CSRD’s, considering that the two seem to vary greatly!