A press release from the provincial government on the state of Okanagan Falls' incorporation process appears to present a far smoother process than what the Regional District of Okanagan Similkameen is dealing with.
During their regular board meeting on Aug. 21, and almost exactly at the same time the press release was issued, director Matt Taylor was asking for support to send a letter asking for more provincial funding to cover the RDOS' costs for their part in the incorporation process.
Before that could go to a vote, however, the board closed the meeting for an in-camera discussion, although not before CAO Jim Zaffino announced that the RDOS had put a pause in their negotiations with the provincial government.
"Meetings will not resume that we're having between the province, ourselves and the [Osoyoos Indian Band] until the following conditions are addressed by the province. Clear definition of the RDOS' role in the negotiation process, improved transparency from the province regarding decision making and expectations, timely provisions of information to RDOS to support meaningful participation," Zaffino stated. "We remain committed to the incorporation process, and we will continue to advocate for a collaborative and informed approach."
Zaffino added that he had personally notified the OIB of the RDOS' position and that he had asked RDOS staff to decline any meetings until the regional district's issues with the process were addressed.
The press release from the provincial government indicates no sign of any tension with the RDOS, nor does it provide a firm date for when the requisite Letters Patent will be issued for the community, simply stating they will be issued in the spring of 2026.
The press release also includes a quote from RDOS vice-chair and Director Campbell Watt, which appears to indicate more of an equal playing field than what
The RDOS is committed to working in partnership with the Osoyoos Indian Band and the Province of British Columbia," Watt's quote reads. "The RDOS board of directors respects and appreciates the collaborative efforts that continue throughout the incorporation process."
Concerns from residents that have arisen in recent weeks around a possible renaming of the future municipality were acknowledged, but with little detail.
"Through collaboration, consultation and co-operation with the OIB, and discussions with relevant community representatives, many different perspectives have been brought forward regarding different aspects of the incorporation, including the official name," the release states. "The province recognizes discussion at the local level will continue."
Following the March referendum, Okanagan Falls set itself to become the first newly incorporated municipality in the province in 15 years, and the first to incorporate since the province adopted legislation recognizing the United Nations Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
The province stated in the press release that the aim is to have the election for the municipality's first council coincide with the next general election in October 2026.
A facilitator has also been appointed to oversee the process by the Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs.
