Lights atop Kelowna radio towers dimmed after complaints from across the lake

Photo: Google Street View

Broadcast towers near Benvoulin and Casorso Rd.

A set of flashing lights in South Kelowna visible from across the region are no longer shining as brightly.

The lights at the top of three Bell Media broadcast towers near the intersection of Benvoulin and Casorso roads sparked discussion on social media when they became visible about a year ago.

Central Okanagan-Similkameen-Nicola MP Dan Albas says the issue hit his desk when residents on the other side of the lake, in particular in Casa Loma, started to complain.

"The regulations are such that any new tower that would go up would have to shine as brightly as they did," Albas said. "But after hearing from the Casa Loma residents association, I encouraged them to reach out to Gord Milsom and (West Kelowna) council. And just to make sure there was community interest in having this done."

Albas says he met with West Kelowna's mayor and city staff, and "to Bell's credit, they were immediately open to further discussions."

Albas says it took several layers of government and industry to get involved, but in the end, the lights have now been dimmed.

"They looked at the regulations and found an exemption for previously standing (towers) and they were able to actually turn down the lights," the MP said.

"Had this not been an existing tower, that would have posed a whole set of other circumstances that wouldn't have probably been as positive nor resolved as quickly."

A good example where different levels of government and private industry could work together to address local concerns…my thanks to all involved: pic.twitter.com/MJqRuL3Umb

— Dan Albas MP (@DanAlbas) August 29, 2022