By Karla Kozakevich, RDOS board chair
The COVID-19 response is quickly evolving and the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) has implemented a set of preventative measures designed to slow the spread of the virus. The intent of these measures is to mitigate the impact on our health infrastructure.
Taking guidance from the RDOS Business Continuity plan, the board voted on March 19, 2020 to close all RDOS facilities to the public until further notice. This includes corporate and satellite offices, recreation facilities and community halls. RDOS board meetings will continue to be held and will be open to accredited media only. In addition, RDOS programs have been cancelled in all rural areas and residents are asked not to attend area Fire Halls. For the health and safety of the public and staff, please conduct your enquiry or business by telephone 250-492-0237 or email [email protected].
Also, until further notice all applications for planning and building permits must be submitted at the front entrance of the RDOS office at 101 Martin Street in Penticton or sent via email. Please see information below. Payments can be dropped off in the after-hours drop box. Payments for other Regional District services will be accepted by cheque, or electronically by debit/credit where available.
The Regional District and its member municipalities are taking aggressive steps to address the threat of COVID-19 and we’re working closely with all of our communities. Collectively, we’re developing plans to keep our core services functional in light of potential staff shortages. These include properly staffed essential services, such as keeping the water and wastewater treatment systems operating, as well as public transit and solid waste collection and treatment. All communications will be coordinated through the Emergency Communication Coordinators, on our websites and social media pages.
The Government of Canada and the BC Ministry of Health continue to deem the overall risk of spread of COVID-19 in B.C. communities as low, but the evidence shows that the reach is expanding. The RDOS is taking the matter seriously and the board is being updated as conditions evolve. We will continue to work with provincial authorities and reiterate the importance of good hygiene practices publicly, and to our staff.
