By Don Urquhart, Times Chronicle
The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) has released more information on the building it is proposing to purchase as its new corporate headquarters at 3547 Skaha Lake Road in Penticton.
The Alternative Approval Process (in which only objections are registered) is ongoing until July 31, 2025 and applies to eligible electors in Electoral Areas “A’ through “I”, Keremeos, Oliver, Osoyoos, Penticton, Princeton, and Summerland.
The objective of purchasing a new building is to consolidate the three existing office locations (one owned and two leased) into a single, centralized facility, improving operational efficiency and enhancing accessibility for residents across the region.
The proposed facility will allow the RDOS to consolidate operations, resulting in anticipated cost savings in areas such as security, janitorial services, and general maintenance.
A comprehensive due diligence process was completed, and RDOS staff have confirmed the building is suitable for long-term use, with no issues of concern identified, according to Mark Pendergraft, RDOS Chair.
The building, built in 1980 is approximately 2,526 sqm. (27,189 sqft.) and will undergo renovations should the process be successful in order to “meet operational needs and enhance user experience.” No significant modifications are anticipated beyond the planned renovations, the RDOS added.
The RDOS said it is not able to confirm any final decisions regarding RDOS-owned/leased buildings at this time. “If the new building is purchased, the RDOS Board of Directors will evaluate future options for the current main office,” while confirming that the two leased buildings would be terminated.
All ongoing operational costs, including heating, electricity, and grounds maintenance, will be funded through the existing Corporate Facilities budget. Any future capital improvements will be addressed through long-term capital planning and future budgets.
