Photo: File photo

MP Mel Arnold

It was not a meeting with Santa, but local politicians did tell their MP what they'd like.

North Okanagan-Shuswap MP Mel Arnold recently met with the Regional District of North Okanagan board on Nov. 20 to get input for the upcoming federal budget process.

"It's good to hear the priorities for the communities so we can make submissions to the finance minister," said the Conservative MP.

Bill Morneau has been reappointed as finance minister in the Liberal cabinet.

Among the items RDNO directors brought to Arnold's attention were the new trail from Armstrong to Sicamous, housing, addiction treatment services and infrastructure for indigenous communities, including water and sewer.

A pitch was also made for the proposed Greater Vernon cultural centre.

"It's a regionally significant project," said Kevin Acton, RDNO chairperson.

Funds are also being sought for wildfire and flood mitigation in the region.

Representatives from the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce will meet with Arnold on Nov. 25 to discuss the 2020 federal budget.

- with files from the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce