Council has approved giving $2,500 towards a proposed shuttle bus service between Osoyoos and Kelowna.
The South Okanagan Chamber of Commerce is proposing to offer the service for residents and visitors who need transportation up and down the valley.
Chamber representative Robert Linttell has been requesting funding from local municipalities to help launch the project.
At a recent council meeting, Linttell outlined the program and its benefits. He noted the region lacks a reliable, day-to-day transportation service for people who need to get to their jobs, students who need to get to post-secondary schools, and for seniors who need to get to their medical appointments.
Linttell said an informal poll, in which 500 people responded, indicated that 70 per cent are in favour of this service.
Linttell envisions four shuttle buses running daily from Osoyoos to Kelowna at a fare of $30 or $40.
“There must be financial support from communities to make this a success,” he said.
Mayor Ron Hovanes said the Town of Osoyoos has contributed financially to the project, which is a “great opportunity for seniors who do not drive.”
But Councillor Dave Mattes said just because Osoyoos has contributed doesn’t mean Oliver has to.
“I’m not sure if we should be helping a commercial enterprise.”
Councillor Jack Bennest said the shuttle would be a positive step for the South Okanagan. But he made it clear the $2,500 is a one-time-only contribution.
Councillor Larry Schwartzenberger agreed that it’s a great project, but said this private enterprise should be paying for it.
In the end, council agreed to the contribution subject to a shuttle contract being awarded by July 1.
Mattes voted in opposition.
