By Sebastian Kanally, Times Chronicle
The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) Board of Directors voted in favour of amendments to the five-year financial plan, which included additional money for Area C, Oliver, and Area A.
Jim Zaffino, Manager of Finance for the RDOS presented an appendix to the 2023-2027 Financial Plan at the Feb. 16 Board of Directors meeting. The appendix includes the feedback gathered from the region for adjustments to be made.
Some of the amendments contained in the appendix for Oliver / Area C was additional funding for Lion’s Park washroom upgrades totalling $240,614. Town staff also requested additional donations, provincial grants, and transfers from capital reserves. In addition, $35,000 more was added per year for Oliver Tourism, resulting in $56,000 per year for the next five years.
Area C also requested a Grant-In-Aid, which was accepted to provide money for relocation support, and transfers from capital reserves. Zaffino noted this was requested for a two year increase in rural recreation support for the area.
Also in the appendix was a request from the Area A Anarchist Mountain Fire Department for $56,000 for a vehicle.
There were also increases for services all areas use, such as the Okanagan Library receiving a five per cent increase in funding and regional trails receiving money for a new vehicle.
Second reading as amended was passed, but some directors needed some time to review before third reading. The budget must be passed by the end of March therefore third and final reading will most likely take place next meeting.
