Parks Canada has released a working boundary for its proposed national park reserve. The boundaries include areas between Highway 3 and Highway 97. (Parks Canada)
By Vanessa Broadbent
Osoyoos Times
Osoyoos town council has denied MLA Linda Larson’s request to join the Town of Oliver in supporting a referendum on the proposed national park reserve in the South Okanagan.
Following Oliver council’s decision to send a letter to the federal government requesting they hold a referendum, Larson, in a letter presented at a meeting on Monday afternoon, urged Osoyoos council to do the same.
“My office has been deluged with phone calls and emails and I have been approached by many constituents asking for a referendum,” she said, referencing a poll from the South Okanagan Similkameen Preservation Society that reported 76 per cent of local people wanted a referendum.
“I strongly feel that it is in the best interests of the people that reside in the South Okanagan-Similkameen,” Larson said.
• Read more: Parks Canada project manager gives update to council
Coun. C. J. Rhodes said he initially supported a referendum, but noticed a lack of information.
“After some sober second thought I don’t understand how a referendum could be held in our community when it’s a federal matter,” he said, noting it would be helpful to see a referendum question before making a decision.
“I know it’s a fairly serious ask and a controversial issue in our community, but I don’t feel comfortable supporting a referendum.”
The rest of council unanimously agreed and mayor Sue McKortoff pointed out that previous and present town councils have been supportive of a national park in the area.
“I think it would be good for this area,” she said. “I’m very supportive of a national park.”
McKortoff also suggested that, regardless of stance, people should provide Parks Canada with feedback.
“Whether you support the park or don’t, please take the time to write in and give the powers that be the info you think should be considered,” she said.
