Kelowna

Is it time residents of Ellison, Scotty Creek, South Lakeshore and South Slopes joined the City of Kelowna?

That's a question those residents currently living outside city limits and within the Regional District of Central Okanagan will be asked.

“We have a formal request from Lake Country to discuss a boundary relocation and as we go through that process it makes sense to hear from residents living in rural areas adjacent to Kelowna about what their preferences are for the future,” says Rob Mayne, Corporate Services Director for the City of Kelowna.

The request from Lake Country asks that 13 industrial properties along Beaver Lake Road, currently paying taxes to Kelowna, but receiving services from Lake Country become part of that community.

In essence, it would allow Beaver Lake Road to become the true boundary between the two communities.

At the same time, the city has also received inquiries from outlying areas to be included within Kelowna city boundaries.

In addition, development potential along the South Slopes (Kelowna Mountain) will have a significant impact on the City of Kelowna’s long-range planning for services such as roads, water and sewer.

The City wants to ensure a governance model is in place to effectively manage growth that has a direct impact on Kelowna.

Some of the areas likely included in the boundary review are the Beaver Lake Road area of Kelowna, Ellison, Scotty Creek, South Lakeshore and South Slopes.

“All of these areas are unique and have their own unique needs, so we want to hear what people think, whether it’s to keep things as they are or join the City of Kelowna,” says Mayne.

He says the review process has not yet begun, but wants people in neighbouring areas to be aware it will be happening. More information will be provided as the process unfolds.

“It’s a long, complicated process involving residents, the Regional District of the Central Okanagan, the Province and the City, so it will take time, but we feel given the current requests and increasing development pressures on the City’s perimeter now is the time to start a meaningful dialogue.”