COVID-19 Response

Yes. The camps have been running with a modified enrollment limit and activities in big spaces such as Beasley Park and George Elliot School gym. 

There is still some room in the morning ½ Day Multi-Sport Camp for boys and girls, age 9-14, at George Elliot Secondary School. Come join Coach Rylee for a wide range of sports, games and fun!  We have new sports each week plus some fun new challenges! Watch District of Lake Country Facebook page for updates and images. 

Register online at www.lakecountry.bc.ca/sportscamps or by calling 250-766-5650.  Registration fee will be prorated to the number of days left in camp.

No. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic and the importance of maintaining physical distancing from others that are not from your household in order to reduce the spread of the virus, there will be no Canada Day celebration in Lake Country for July 1, 2020.  

Heritage Canada invites everyone to join together in a Virtual Canada Day celebration: https://www.facebook.com/events/250110859586932/ 

Yes.  The splash park at Swalwell Park is now open for the summer 8:00am-8:00pm seven days a week until September. 

Parents/guardians are reminded of the importance of maintaining appropriate physical distancing from other family groups at all parks and facilities. Avoid crows. 

Please wash/sanitize hands before and after use of public facilities. 

Consider others wishing to use the splash park and plan for a limited amount of time at the park so others can use it too.  Parking is somewhat limited Monday-Friday due to the use of the public parking by the nearby construction project contractors temporarily on site for brief periods of time. 

Online: 

Property taxes can be paid using the online banking system through your financial institution from the comfort and safety of your home and device. Use your Roll number in the Account field, and choose Lake Country Property Taxes as the payee. 

Claim your eligible Home Owner Grant online here: https://secure.amaistech.com/ePAY-ePRINT/First?client=lakecountry 

Property taxes can be paid by credit card (+transaction fees) through the secure third party provider: Option Pay. Find out more: https://www.lakecountry.bc.ca/en/living-in-our-community/online-payments.aspx

Drop box at Municipal Hall: 

Pay by post-dated cheque anytime using the drop box at the front door of Municipal Hall. If eligible for the Home Owner Grant, complete and sign the form on the bottom of your property tax notice and put it in an envelope and deposit in the drop box at the front door of Municipal Hall anytime. 

In Person:

Municipal Hall is open to the public 8:30am-4:30pm Monday-Friday with an adjusted traffic flow and in-person customer service process to protect citizens and staff. We request all customers use the hand sanitizer provided on the table at the entrance and respect physical distancing to reduce transmission of Covid-19. Do not come in if you are sick or experiencing flu-like symptoms. The customer service counter is only able to serve one citizen at a time, so please be patient as you wait your turn. Make sure to complete and sign the Home Owner Grant portion of your property tax bill if you are eligible to claim it this year. 

Due Date: 

2020 Property tax due date has been moved forward to September 30, 2020 by 6:00 p.m. A 5% penalty will be applied after 6:00 p.m. September 30, 2020 on outstanding amounts (including unclaimed Home Owner Grants), and an additional 5% penalty will be applied after November 30, 2020 on the outstanding balance.  

Learn more: https://www.lakecountry.bc.ca/en/living-in-our-community/taxes.aspx 

Communities throughout the Central Okanagan are working to have playgrounds open Monday, June 1, 2020 

As phased reopening plans continue to progress, the next phase will see playgrounds and outdoor fitness equipment opening on June 1 across the region. This includes outdoor playgrounds located in municipal and regional parks as well as playgrounds located at public schools in the Okanagan.

Once barriers are removed, such as caution tape or fencing, it will signify that playgrounds have been inspected and are now open for public use. Residents are asked to refrain from using these spaces until parks staff remove closed signs, fencing and caution tape. Waterparks will remain closed at this time.

Residents are encouraged to exercise caution when visiting local playgrounds and continue to follow Provincial health guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19 by:

• Washing and/or sanitizing hands before and after visiting playgrounds
• Keeping a safe physical distance and avoiding gatherings
• Staying home if you feel unwell

The decision to close playgrounds has been at the discretion of local governments and were closed across the Okanagan region in mid-March. Staff have been working collaboratively with municipal and regional partners to determine appropriate timing to reopen playgrounds.

Information regarding waterparks and indoor recreation facility reopening plans will be provided by each respective municipality as each facility has unique considerations to ensure the safety of staff and patrons.  

Watch our video: https://www.facebook.com/lakecountry.gov/posts/2982336211821784  

As of May 25, the Discover Camping reservation system is back online to accept new reservations. Camping provides the ideal opportunity to connect safely with family and friends in BC Parks beauty. 

In order to ensure British Columbians have access to summer vacation opportunities close to home, new reservations are being limited to B.C. residents. The plan is to safely open as many parks as possible so that B.C. campers and day visitors can rediscover the wilderness beauty close to home.

Learn more of the details in the May 25, 2020 News Release from the Province. 

Unlike many other places that imposed strict “lockdown” policies, B.C.’s approach was to require safe operation of a broad range of services designated as essential services, to protect our health care system and maintain access to key services and supplies. Many non-essential businesses remained open, provided they could operate safely.

The Provincial Health Officer will continue to provide input and advice as needed throughout the review process.

In some instances, this will require consideration by the Provincial Health Officer of lifting or modifying existing orders before certain businesses re-open. Businesses and organizations that are not covered by a Provincial Health Officer order may re-open or continue to operate but they will be expected to adopt and implement sector safety plans are they are finalized. 

According to BC's Restart Plan: The risk of transmission at busy workplaces and other institutions is a direct function of two variables: the number of contacts (the number of people present at the same time) and the contact intensity (the type of contact ie. close or distant and the length of contact ie. brief or prolonged). These are factors that we can rate as low, medium and high risks.

Based on these factors, steps can be taken to reduce the risk, including:

• Physical distancing measures – measures to reduce the density of people
• Engineering controls – physical barriers (like plexiglass at checkouts) or increased ventilation
• Administrative controls – clear rules and guidelines
• Personal protective equipment – like the use of non-medical masks

These modifications and controls, combined with the following measures, can reduce the risk of transmission.

• Create clear workplace policies that ensure people with cold or flu symptoms do not come to work
• Implement sick day policies that allow people to be off or work safely from home when they are ill or have symptoms of a cold or flu
• Provide work from home options, when possible, to reduce contact intensity. When it’s not an option, consider measures such as staggered shifts and virtual meetings as much as possible
• Implement strategies that reduce the number and intensity of contacts – from greater use of non-medical masks to more checkouts and increased shopping hours
• Clean “high-touch” areas in workplaces and retail outlets frequently and provide hand sanitizer at entrances
• Focus on higher-risk employees including those over the age of 60 and those with underlying medical conditions – from more flexible hours, to work from home options and workspace accommodation

Additional measures specific to various organizational settings are being developed. More will be created as various sectors are engaged and industry or sector wide norms are adopted and required.

For employers and retailers seeking detailed information, please refer to the BC COVID-19 Go-Forward Management Strategy (PDF, 634KB) and the BC COVID-19 Go-Forward Management Checklist (PDF, 320KB), as well as resources from WorkSafeBC.

WorkSafeBC will work with employers and workers through educational materials, consultation, and workplace inspections to help them restart safely.

Employers will be required to:

• Review the new Health and Safety Guidelines, best practices and other resources from WorkSafeBC
• Adapt these materials into appropriate COVID-19 Safe Plans for your workplace

WorkSafeBC prevention officers can be reached by calling 1-888-621-7233 (1-888-621-SAFE) or 604-276-3100 (Lower Mainland), Monday to Friday between 8:05 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. for non-urgent matters. 

Urgent matters, (including reports of unsafe work conditions and refusals of unsafe work), can be directed to the same numbers, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

For general guidance and support, please contact the COVID-19 Provincial Orders Support Team (POST) Call Centre toll-free at 1-833-309-4631.

Concerns about non-compliance with PHO orders as they pertain to public health matters in work settings that are regulated by public health officers (e.g. food premises, personal services establishments, pools, and industrial camps, etc.) should continue to be directed to environmental health officers at the local level, who work for one of the five regional health authorities.  Contact Interior Health Authority via email: EPHonduty@interiorhealth.ca.

Protection of staff and the public is a priority.  While we recommend residents use online banking to pay water utility and tax bills from the safety and privacy of their home and device, Municipal Hall is now open with the following protocols currently in place:

• increased frequency of cleaning and disinfecting high touch surfaces
• physical distancing measures
• limited general public access to meet safe density guidelines
• advance appointments required (virtual appointments preferred)
• signage and demarcation of traffic flow inside the building
• hours of operation: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.   

View the Covid-19 Safety Plan for re-opening Municipal Hall. 

Yes. Effective May 14, 2020, wood burning campfires are allowed again in Lake Country.  

A campfire is a fire used to cook and/or provide heat and light when camping or in backyards and is only permitted on private property.

• They are only allowed when there isn't a Ministry of Forests ban in place which usually occurs during a high or extreme fire hazard rating.
• You must have permission from the property owner.
• Only well seasoned campfire style wood may be burned.
• The fire can be no larger than 1 metre in diameter and height.
• The fire must be supervised at all times.
• Equipment to put the fire out must be available to prevent it from getting out of control.
• The fire must be a minimum of 3 metres from any combustible materials.

A campfire ban within most local government fire jurisdictions in the Central Okanagan was put in place April 3 to support public health efforts to reduce sources of air pollution including open burning.  The decision to allow wood burning campfires from May 14 brings these local fire authorities in line with BC Wildfire campfire regulations in the Kamloops Fire Centre and the reopening of many BC Parks for day use for the May long weekend. 

With appropriate equipment, tools and precautions to prevent the spread of fire, wood burning campfires are once again allowed in the District of Lake Country.

All other open burning is prohibited within the Central Okanagan as the season is closed.

All smoking materials should be carefully extinguished and motorists are reminded not to throw cigarettes or other smoking materials from their vehicle.  As well, smoking is not allowed in any regional or municipal parks.  

Please remember that fireworks are not allowed at any time in most areas of the Central Okanagan.   Use of fireworks in the District of Lake Country must be approved in writing by the Fire Chief.

Following the unveiling of the BC’s Restart Plan, a coordinated approach is being taken to re-open some Lake Country parks amenities Friday, May 15 prior to the long weekend; and Lake Country Municipal Hall on Tuesday, May 19, 2020.

Protection of staff and the public is a priority.  Protocols for re-opening Municipal Hall to the public include:

• increased frequency of cleaning and disinfecting high touch surfaces
• physical distancing measures
• limited general public access to meet safe density guidelines
• advance appointments required (virtual appointments preferred)
• signage and demarcation of traffic flow inside the building
• hours of operation: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.  

The announcement by the Province included a phased plan (we are at the Phase 2 stage) that allows the opening of many types of business and services, provided they can meet Public Health and Safety Guidelines. Central Okanagan Parks leads have been collaborating with BCRPA and viaSport on consistency in opening the parks and facilities. The agenda for the May 19, 2020 Council Meeting includes an outline of the local approach for Lake Country. 

The District of Lake Country offers many essential services to the community which have continued to be provided while the Municipal Hall has been closed to the public since March 16, 2020.  The District will continue to request specific meetings between the public and staff or the Mayor occur virtually or by phone; and residents are encouraged to use online services through the District website www.lakecountry.bc.ca.

In addition to parks, beaches and sports fields which are currently open for casual use, Friday, May 15 the following racket sport facilities will be open with appropriate physical distancing required:

• Tennis courts at Woodsdale, Coral Beach and Benchlands parks including pickleball at Benchlands
• Skate park at Swalwall Park.

It is important for parks users to note:

• Casual play only; there will be No organized league play at this time. Crowded courts = closed courts.
• Playgrounds and the Trethewey waterpark remain closed.  
• Basketball courts remain closed.
• Multi-sport courts at Shoreline, Benchlands, and Apex parks are closed.

Other parks amenities will be reopened in the days/weeks to come. Watch for signage at specific parks.

Physical distancing measures remain in place and anyone exhibiting symptoms are asked to remain home and not use public facilities.

 Yes. The District of Lake Country is using BC’s Restart Plan to help guide decisions around the timing and protocols for the reopening of municipal facilities including sport courts, parks amenities and public buildings.

During May 6th release of the four-phase approach, Premier Horgan emphasized steps to reopen facilities and activities across the province will be slow and deliberate, and group gatherings of 50 people or more will not be allowed for the foreseeable future.

Dr. Bonnie Henry, BC’s Provincial Health Officer, reiterated we must continue to practice physical distancing measures to protect our communities and healthcare system, so we don’t unravel the work we’ve done to contain the spread of Covid-19 over the last several weeks.

From the beginning of the District’s response to this pandemic, our priority has been on public safety. The actions of Lake Country citizens have allowed us to move forward with a cautious plan of reopening. View the Covid-19 Safety Plan for re-opening Municipal Hall. 

The District of Lake Country is developing a plan to re-open Municipal Hall and various other community facilities in conjunction with the Restart Plan announced by the Province of BC.  Subscribe to Community News and Public Notifications to get announcements direct to your email inbox; and follow District of Lake Country Facebook page to be alerted as the plan evolves. 

BC’s Restart Plan lays out a series of steps that we will take together to protect people and ensure that our province can come back from COVID-19 stronger than before:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/emergency-preparedness-response-recovery/covid-19-provincial-support/bc-restart-plan

While the bigger group acts in front of large audiences have been cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic impacts on events, arrangements have been made with performers to offer small 2-performer shows in neighbourhoods. “It is a free show, just smaller and closer to home,” says Ryan Donn, Cultural Development Coordinator.

“We invite Lake Country residents to apply now to have a “Sidewalk Concert” on the public space adjacent to their property,” said Donn. “There will be two 20 to 30-minute concerts scheduled on Wednesday or Thursday evenings each week from late June through August. It is a significant modification to our regular programming in the parks, but it is a way we can still offer free live performances from a safe distance and for a limited audience each evening.” 

Popular performers like Ben Klick, Poppa Dawg, Opera Kelowna, Cod Gone Wild, Sista B, and many more have expressed a willingness to come out to Lake Country sidewalks or driveways to provide a short set in front of a few homes so families can watch safely from the privacy of their own yard.  

“Wednesday, Premier Horgan mentioned that restrictions on gatherings of 50 or more people including concerts, conventions and sporting events with a live audience are “here to stay”, so the Live! in Lake Country Sidewalk Concert series for 2020 ensures that we are providing a live performance and not a party,” said Donn.

Applications opened May 7 and close May 18th to allow for the planning and logistics time needed to consider the applicant’s location and performer availability.  Each applicant must detail their plan to ensure physical distancing for the host, neighbours and performers. Lake Country residents can apply online at www.liveinlakecountry.ca.

For more information contact:

Ryan Donn, Cultural Development Coordinator

rdonn@lakecountry.bc.ca

Tel 250-766-5650 

No. Open burning season has officially come to an early end in the Central Okanagan. 

Local fire departments across the Central Okanagan remind everyone that illegal burning, not only impacts the health of others but requires fire department resources which increases the physical distancing health risks of responding firefighters.

Lake Country property owners that purchased a burning permit in March but were unable to burn – due to air quality conditions and restrictions – may receive a credit for a fall 2020 or spring 2021 burning permit.  Please contact Lake Country Fire Administration at 250-766-2327 to have a credit recorded.

Note: The wood-burning campfire ban put in place April 3, was removed May 14, 2020 to allow campfires, but no open burning where a burning permit would be necessary. A campfire is a fire used to cook and/or provide heat and light when camping or in backyards and is only permitted on private property.

• They are only allowed when there isn't a Ministry of  Forests ban in place which usually occurs during a high  or  extreme fire hazard rating.
• You must have permission from the property owner
• Only well seasoned campfire style wood may be burned
• The fire can be no larger than 1 metre in diameter and height
• The fire must be supervised at all times
• Equipment to put the fire out must be available to prevent it from getting out of control
• The fire must be a minimum of 3 metres from any combustible materials

Yes. The District of Lake Country is developing a plan to re-open Municipal Hall and various other community facilities in conjunction with the Restart Plan announced by the Province of BC.  Subscribe to Community News and Public Notifications to get announcements direct to your email inbox; and follow District of Lake Country Facebook page to be alerted as the plan evolves. 

BC’s Restart Plan lays out a series of steps that we will take together to protect people and ensure that our province can come back from COVID-19 stronger than before:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/emergency-preparedness-response-recovery/covid-19-provincial-support/bc-restart-plan

Beginning in May Council meetings will be recorded and posted for the public to view online.

District of Lake Country staff is working on modifying processes which could result in Council being able to consider applications that require public input. 

The Province of BC announced May 1, 2020: Under the Emergency Program Act, the Province has repealed and replaced Ministerial Order M083 with M139 to expand the authorities given to local governments under M083. The new order will help local governments continue to make important decisions for their communities during the COVID-19 pandemic, including allowing local governments to hold public hearings electronically.

More information about resources for local governments is available here: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/local-governments/governance-powers/covid-19

The District of Lake Country is supporting the effort to reduce the spread of COVID-19 by changing the model for offering live concerts in the community during summer 2020. To accommodate physical distancing, while ensuring the cultural offering of free concerts for Lake Country citizens, Live! in Lake Country will be hosting “Sidewalk Concerts” to be enjoyed by households from the safety of their own private properties instead of large group events in the parks this year.  

While the bigger group acts in front of large audiences have been cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic impacts on events, arrangements have been made with performers to offer small 2-performer shows in neighbourhoods. “It is a free show, just smaller and closer to home,” says Ryan Donn, Cultural Development Coordinator.

“We invite Lake Country residents to apply now to have a “Sidewalk Concert” on the public space adjacent to their property,” said Donn. “There will be two 20 to 30-minute concerts scheduled on Wednesday or Thursday evenings each week from late June through August. It is a significant modification to our regular programming in the parks, but it is a way we can still offer free live performances from a safe distance and for a limited audience each evening.” 

Popular performers like Ben Klick, Poppa Dawg, Opera Kelowna, Cod Gone Wild, Sista B, and many more have expressed a willingness to come out to Lake Country sidewalks or driveways to provide a short set in front of a few homes so families can watch safely from the privacy of their own yard.  

“Wednesday, Premier Horgan mentioned that restrictions on gatherings of 50 or more people including concerts, conventions and sporting events with a live audience are “here to stay”, so the Live! in Lake Country Sidewalk Concert series for 2020 ensures that we are providing a live performance and not a party,” said Donn.

Applications open today and close May 18^th to allow for the planning and logistics time needed to consider the applicant’s location and performer availability.  Each applicant must detail their plan to ensure physical distancing for the host, neighbours and performers. Lake Country residents can apply online at www.liveinlakecountry.ca.

For more information contact:

Ryan Donn, Cultural Development Coordinator

rdonn@lakecountry.bc.ca

Tel 250-766-5650 

There are many questions the Federal government has addressed with regard to the temporary foreign worker program which is used by a number of agricultural operations throughout the Okanagan. For answers to many of your questions, please see the linked webpage intended to complement existing guidance to employers (published March 27, 2020), as well as information for travellers to Canada. Learn more: https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/foreign-workers/employer-compliance/covid-faq.html

Additionally, the Province of BC has developed recommendations for all farms to meet the orders, notices, and guidance issued by British Columbia’s Provincial Health Officer and additional MANDATORY requirements for farms employing Temporary Foreign Workers (TFWs) and domestic workers. The mandatory requirements apply to workers in B.C. under the Seasonal Agriculture Program (SAWP) and the Agriculture Stream (AgStream) programs.

See the details: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/office-of-the-provincial-health-officer/covid-19/covid-19-pho-guidance-farms-farm-workers.pdf

• 2020 Property tax bills will now have a due date of September 30 instead of July 2nd. Property taxes not paid by 6:00 p.m. September 30 will incur a 5% penalty and any unpaid property taxes after November 30, 2020 will incur an additional 5% (instead of the usual one time 10% July 2).
• Utility bills for District water customers, for water usage throughout 2020 will now be due four (4) months after the billing cycle. Interest will be waived on outstanding balances until December 31st.
• Council carried a motion to not give final adoption to the bylaw to increase the parcel tax by $25 per parcel or the equivalent of 1.25%. The parcel tax increase was part of the 2020 budget and was meant to support the Transportation for Tomorrow plan

As phrases like “Social Distancing and “Physical Distancing” become part of our everyday vocabulary, the discussion of who is responsible for enforcing distancing measures has been a topic of conversation throughout all communities. Distancing is a behaviour that is difficult to enforce, or police, and must be done through education resulting in the person practising distancing measures for the right reasons.

The District of Lake Country Bylaw Enforcement team consists of one full time officer who is on duty Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. Beginning April 16^th two seasonal officers will be joining the department and will provide additional support Thursday through Monday from 8:00 am to 9:00 pm.

If you have a concern, contact Bylaw Enforcement at 250.766.6673 or use the online "Report a Problem" system through  lakecountry.bc.ca. Concerns related to community members not adhering to physical distancing recommendations or usage of public spaces, will result in a bylaw officer explaining and trying to educate individuals about why physical distancing is important. Distancing is voluntary and cannot be enforced. If you observe groups of 50 or more or know of someone in the community who has returned from outside of the Country and are not self-isolating, please contact Bylaw Enforcement. Officers will support Interior Health by issuing formal warnings and contacting Interior Health when ongoing non-compliance continues to occur.

Last week a ban was put on campfires as well as open burning. To report a fire call 250.766.2327.

Continuing to stay home and take individual action on the advice being given by Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Bonnie Henry, is crucial as we all continue to do our part in flattening the curve.  

The District of Lake Country took a proactive approach and did an essential services and staff skills audit in early March. Many municipalities have been forced to lay off workers while spring programs are postponed and facilities are closed, but Lake Country does not employ any permanent part-time recreation program, parks or facilities staff like other communities.

A review of contracts and project plans has been done to ensure both fiscal responsibility in the use of tax dollars and senior government grants along with timelines for project delivery so as not to incur additional costs.  As many are aware, Council made a decision to terminate the Visitor Services contract for 2020.

Hiring has been suspended for new positions and will be reassessed at a later time.  Staff resources have been reallocated where needed to ensure continuity and fiscal effectiveness in delivery of essential services to the community. 

The summer student hiring was able to proceed since their wages are 100% covered by the Federal Government as part of the Covid-19 supports in place, and the District has instituted safe distancing practices in the workplace. 

Each private campground is an independent business subject to the same laws and regulations of any small business.

• Any business or service that has not been ordered to close may still operate if it can adapt its services and workplace to the orders and recommendations of the Provincial Health Officer.
• If you feel that there is a significant risk to the health and safety of British Columbians, you should report the issue to your local bylaw office.  Use the online Report a Problem form so the response to your concern is tracked. 
• The decision to close access to provincial parks was done to ensure public safety and help stop the spread of COVID-19 as many of the parks were incredibly busy and practicing physical distancing was becoming a significant challenge.
• The Province recognizes the value nature has for improving health and wellness and is coordinating with other authorities to reopen access to the park system as soon as it is safe to do so.
• People are encouraged to find other quiet outdoor spaces to enjoy, as long as there is enough space for safe physical distances to be maintained.
• While these changes are difficult for people, it’s important to remember that this is temporary.

Sandbagging stations were set up Thursday, April 9, at Beasley Park parking lot and on the Oyama isthmus across from the Oyama Fire Hall.  Those property owners that have had issues in the past with flooding are encouraged to take a look at their flood preparation plans.  It’s a good time to review and update the steps they take each year to protect and prepare their property from potential flood damage. Property owners are reminded they are responsible for having a plan as well as the tools and equipment necessary to protect their properties from possible flood damage.

As approved by NavCanada, a professional drone pilot/photographer will fly Middle Vernon Creek from Wood Lake to Duck Lake between April 8-13 to assist with planning and preparing for the spring freshet by helping identify areas of risk and hazards along the creek.

Links to information and pamphlets on flood preparedness including a recommended method for sandbag diking are available on the Be Prepared page of the Central Okanagan Emergency Program website cordemergency.ca and on the Prepared BC websiteopen_in_new.  There is also information available for areas that might be susceptible to land slippage or movement.

Yes. Regular front door loading and fare collection will resume June 2020. 

Rear door loading with no fare collection was implemented during the Covid-19 pandemic. 

BC Transit implemented summer level of service in the Kelowna regional transit system Sunday, April 5.

The changes include:

• Service reductions and schedule changes on various routes that reflect summer service
• Discontinuation of routes 4 Pandosy/UBCO Express and 13 Quail Ridge for the summer
• Schedule change for route 97 Okanagan and 23 Lake Country to improve on-time performance

To find out more about changes to specific trips, please check the preview schedules on BCTransit.com. Due to the additional changes in response to COVID-19, a Rider’s Guide will not be available for this service change. Customers are thanked for their patience during this time.

The response to COVID-19 is a fluid situation that businesses, governments, and people are adjusting to across the country and around the world. BC Transit will continue to monitor available resources and provide service updates on a day-to-day basis. 

Please visit bctransit.com/covid19 for details about BC Transit's response to COVID-19, including reduced passenger capacity, rear door boarding where available, not collecting fares, and enhanced cleaning on buses and at facilities.

No. The detachment will not be providing criminal checks. In order to protect the public and their employees, the Lake Country RCMP  are making the following temporary changes in response to COVID-19. 

These changes are being taken as a preventative measure and do not affect 9-1-1 service or calls to our non-emergency police line. Both of those services continue to be offered 24-hours a day, 7 days a week.

Our priority continues to be community safety and security and we are taking these measures to help ensure core policing duties will not be impacted. 

The Lake Country Fire Department appreciates donations of commercially-supplied PPE. 

The Province has requested that businesses and organizations undertake an inventory of critical supplies in their possession, including personal protective equipment, medical supplies and cleaning. Local governments are asked to share this request with businesses and organizations in their community.

The Province asks that all the supplies and associated volumes held by businesses and organization be outlined and whether each business or organization would be able to send the supplies to centralized provincial distribution facilities, located in the Lower Mainland and Victoria, for further distribution across B.C. Information on the location of these facilities will be forthcoming.

At this time, the Province is seeking quantities of 100 units or more. Businesses and organizations are asked to please return the spreadsheet by Tuesday, April 2 to:

ESMOC.DIRECTOR@gov.bc.ca

While regular in-person Activity Guide programs have been postponed, some of the recreation program fitness instructors have tried to provide options for classes via online video sharing technology. 

Lake Country Yoga enthusiasts: check out this video link to participate from home in a 30 minute class by recreation program instructor Eva Hartmann. It's based on what she does regularly in the Flow Classes on Wednesday evenings at Beasley (beginners to moderate students).  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j3asAVkyVqU.

Here is the same class in a version WITH music  https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Jtdu1Aff08U

Enjoy a quick Afternoon Boost with Ali Mayo’s latest Yoga video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A07chngfB6I

Kiarra Watson offers Bootcamp classes via Zoom:

April 6 class recorded for anytime access: 

https://us04web.zoom.us/rec/share/6p1tA-jS63JLGLPRy2_tdI4hB7jFaaa81HIfqPIJzxuI6FSSl1SU9qFD7XMSl_c3

April 1 class recorded for anytime access:  

https://us04web.zoom.us/rec/share/6PBpNJjO7XlIG4n8smbEAJcxAoHqeaa80SMa-Ptcn0z7fomjM-BTDDncHsQTejyM

March 30 class recorded for anytime access: https://us04web.zoom.us/rec/share/9OJaCYPV90hIR6PfuFjSXLI_A97oaaa81nVM_fYOzEtJv99dyXsHc9sKKAXOtuH- 

https://us04web.zoom.us/rec/share/-fJ0Eeuu90xOS4HT7B_8GbAOFYj0X6a8hChM-_MPmUu9E3Ia0msD7LudetDvnNbp?startTime=1585178981000

Enjoy Ali Mayo's March 24th Yoga class: https://youtu.be/d0YYgcnZsk0 

Here is a link to a children’s fitness class video by our Lake Country Yoga & Pl3y Kids Fitness Instructor, Christina Aaron. https://www.facebook.com/christina.aaron.18/videos/10163258139240125/

March 26, 2020 Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety, definded the following essential services: 

(See the Provincial News Release)

Essential services are those daily services essential to preserving life, health, public safety and basic societal functioning. They are the services British Columbians rely on in their daily lives.

Developed by Emergency Management BC in consultation with other government ministries and the provincial health officer (PHO), this definition is intended to clarify what qualifies as an essential service in the context of the Province’s response to COVID-19.  In consultation with the PHO, these services should and are encouraged to remain open. They must, however, follow the orders and guidance provided by the PHO to ensure safe operations and reduce the risk of transmission of COVID-19.

The PHO has ordered some types of businesses to close. Any business or service that has not been ordered to close, and is also not identified on the essential service list, may stay open if it can adapt its services and workplace to the orders and recommendations of the PHO.

Child care providers and schools providing care and/or in-class instruction for children are to prioritize placements for those children whose parents are employed as front-line workers in direct to public health and health services, social services, law enforcement, first responders and emergency response.

A list of essential services follows.

Health and health services

Direct-to-public health services

• all health-care services, including acute care (hospitals), secondary/long-term care, coroners' services, health-care providers working within and outside an acute care setting and other health services, including public health, detox facilities, safe-injection sites, COVID-19 testing, clinical research supporting the COVID-19 response, blood/plasma donation services and emergency pre-hospitalization services;
• other health services and caregivers (e.g., physicians, dentists, psychiatrists, psychologists, mid-level practitioners, nurses and assistants, infection-control and quality-assurance personnel, pharmacists, physical and occupational therapists and assistants, social workers, mental-health and substance-use workers, including peer support workers, speech pathologists, diagnostic and therapeutic technicians and technologists, counsellors, chiropractors, naturopaths, dentists, crisis centres, outreach workers, overdose and harm-reduction services, meal programs; and
• health first responders (paramedics).

Health service providers

• pharmaceutical production, medical laboratories/research, medical testing, pharmacies, medical supply and equipment manufacturers, wholesale, distribution and stores, and analytical testing labs related to testing of finished product for pathogens and contaminants;
• safety supply (e.g., work clothes, personal protective equipment, medical/pharmaceutical/ laboratory supplies, etc.) stores, manufacturers, technicians, logistics and warehouse operators;
• medical wholesale and distribution; and
• health plans, billing and health information.

Law enforcement, public safety, first responders, emergency response personnel

• first responders, including police, fire and those services providing for public safety, including commercial vehicle safety enforcement, corrections and detainment facilities, park rangers, security and protective services, court services, bylaw enforcement, as well as communications/dispatching support for first responders and volunteers, such as search-and-rescue and public-safety lifeline volunteers;
• public-sector workers for peace, order and good government, and employees of contracted service providers in these fields, including maintenance of technical infrastructure to support this work and compliance with health and public-safety orders;
• businesses that provide support to police and correctional services;
• operations and services in support of the Canadian Armed Forces and Canadian Border Services Agency;
• emergency management personnel at local, regional and provincial levels;
• businesses that ensure global continuity of supply of aggregates to support critical infrastructure repairs and emergency response requirements (e.g., sandbags, armour stone barriers, etc.); and
• equipment and uniform suppliers for first responders.

Vulnerable population service providers

• businesses and non-profits that provide food, shelter, social and support services, and other necessities of life for economically disadvantaged or otherwise vulnerable individuals, such as:
  • food banks, community kitchens, and voluntary and community service providers;
  • residential health facilities, mental-health, substance-use and addictions services;
  • transitional, social and supportive housing, and single-room occupancy housing;
• community services and outreach for immigrants, refugees, vulnerable populations and non-market housing, including businesses that sell, rent or repair assistive/mobility/medical devices, aids and/or supplies;
• care for seniors, adults, children or individuals with disabilities;
• child care services for those persons providing essential services;
• caregivers for children in care and out of care;
• elder and disability care, including disabled service support for people with physical and cognitive disabilities;
• residential care for individuals with mental health and substance use challenges, including licensed and registered treatment and recovery facilities;
• government and non-profit service delivery staff who provide access to income supports for people in need of food and shelter;  
• residential and care facilities and shelters for seniors, adults, children and people with disabilities;
• overdose prevention sites, clinical overdose prevention services or medical marijuana provision; and
• businesses that sell, rent or repair assistive/mobility/medical devices, aids and/or supplies, or other products/services that support the health sector, including mental-health and addictions/counselling supports.

Critical infrastructure service providers

• infrastructure, drilling and production, refineries, processing, completion facilities, utilities, transportation, transmission, stations and storage facilities critical in supporting daily essential electricity needs, drinking water, waste water, electricity (including associated infrastructure), steam, alternative energy production, waste and hazardous management, industrial recycling, oil and natural and propane gas, fuel and other fuel sources, such as heating oil and wood pellets, as well as operating staff;
• manufacturing of goods necessary for the continued and immediate operation of other essential infrastructure and businesses;
• gas stations, diesel, propane and heating fuel providers including providers of motor vehicle, aircraft and water/marine fuels, and providers of charging stations for electric vehicles; and
• operations and employees needed to operate and maintain drinking water and wastewater/drainage infrastructure, including:
  • operational staff at water authorities;
  • operational staff at community water systems;
  • operational staff at wastewater treatment facilities;
  • workers repairing water and wastewater conveyances and performing required sampling or monitoring;
  • operational staff for water distribution and testing;
  • operational staff at wastewater collection facilities;
  • operational staff and technical support for supervisory control and data-acquisition control systems;
  • chemical disinfectant suppliers for wastewater and personnel protection; and
  • workers who maintain digital systems infrastructure supporting water and wastewater operations.

Food and agriculture service providers

• food cultivation, including farming, livestock, aquaculture and fishing, and businesses that support the food supply chain, as well as community gardens and subsistence agriculture;
• food processing, manufacturing, storage and distribution of foods, feed products and beverages;
• workers essential to maintaining or repairing equipment in food processing and distribution centres;
• workers, including temporary foreign workers, to support agricultural operations to enhance food security;
• retail: grocery stores, convenience stores, farmers markets and other establishments engaged in the retail sale or provision of food, pet or livestock supply, liquor, cannabis (including producers), and any other household consumer products, such as cleaning and personal care products. 
  • includes stores that sell groceries and also sell other non-grocery products, and products necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation and essential daily operation of residences. such as home supply, hardware, building material stores, pawn brokers, and garden centres and nurseries;
• farming supply, including seed, fertilizer, pesticides, farm-machinery sales and maintenance;
• inspection services and associated regulatory and government workforce and supporting businesses required for slaughter of animals, dairy production and food safety; and
• businesses that provide for the health and welfare of animals, including veterinarians, farms, boarding kennels, stables, animal shelters, zoos, aquariums, research facilities and other service providers.

Transportation, infrastructure and manufacturing

• supply chain services needed to supply goods for societal functioning, including cooling, storing, packaging, transportation, warehousing and distribution;
• workers who support the maintenance and operation of cargo transportation services, including crews, maintenance, operations and other facilities workers;
• manufacturers and distributors (to include service centres and related operations) of packaging materials, pallets, crates, containers and other supplies needed to support manufacturing, packaging staging and distribution operations;
• truck drivers who haul hazardous and waste materials to support critical infrastructure, capabilities, functions, and municipal and provincial services;
• local, regional, and provincial delivery services, including but not limited to businesses that ship or deliver groceries, food, goods or services directly to business and residences and mailing and shipping services;
• services to support and enable transportation, including highway, road, bridge maintenance and repair;
• employees who repair, maintain and overhaul vehicles, aircraft and parts, rail equipment, marine vessels, and the equipment and infrastructure that enables operations that encompass movement of cargo and passengers, as well as vehicle rentals and leasing;
• services that facilitate the transportation of essential supplies, personnel and services, including port/waterfront operations, road, air and rail operations;
• facilities supporting interprovincial and intra-provincial delivery of goods, including truck scales, commercial vehicle inspection stations, brokerages, truck towing and repair services, commercial cardlock fuel providers, truck and rest stops;
• government-owned or leased buildings;
• businesses that supply other essential businesses and people working from home with the support or supplies necessary to operate;
• private transportation services, such as taxis, ride-hailing, helicopter, aircraft and marine vessels;
• public transportation services under rules for physical distancing or other recommendations from the PHO;
• workers supporting the chemical and industrial gas supply chains, including workers at chemical manufacturing plants, workers in laboratories, workers at distribution facilities, workers who transport basic raw chemical materials to the producers of industrial and consumer goods and support the natural resource sector, as well as workers supporting safety at such facilities;
• provision of public services that support the safe operation of regulated businesses and the provision of public services that support those businesses to meet other regulatory requirements;
• workers who support the operation, inspection, and maintenance of essential public works facilities and operations;
• workers who support the inspection and maintenance for ongoing safety at industrial facilities;
• inspectors who ensure worksites are safe and health for workers, and who investigate serious workplace accidents;
• workers who process and manage claims made by injured workers, including services related to their care and treatment, as well as the provision of workers’ compensation benefits;
• hotels and places of accommodation;
• activities of the consuls general and staff who support the work of the consuls general;
• landlords of buildings where the consulates are located and those who must guarantee access to consular offices as well as the operation of the consular offices;
• storage for essential businesses;
• businesses that provide materials and services for the operation, maintenance and safety of transportation systems (road, transit, rail, air and marine) including delivery of maintenance services, such as clearing snow, response to collisions and completing needed repairs to transportation systems;
• businesses that extract, manufacture, process and distribute goods, products, equipment and materials, including businesses that manufacture inputs to other manufacturers (e.g., primary metal/steel, blow moulding, component manufacturers, chemicals, etc., that feed the end-product manufacturer);
• vegetation management crews and traffic workers who support environmental remediation/monitoring and who respond to environmental emergencies;
• businesses providing staffing services, including temporary labour services; and
• businesses that support the safe operations of residences, essential businesses and facilities/buildings.

Sanitation

• cleaning services necessary to provide and maintain disinfection;
• manufacturing of sanitary products, household paper products, chemicals, microelectronics/semi-conductor, including companies able to retrofit their production facilities to produce goods/services that can be used to address critical shortages of sanitary and protective goods;
• businesses that support environmental management/monitoring and spill cleanup and response, including environmental consulting firms, professional engineers and geoscientists, septic haulers, well drillers, pesticides applicators and exterminators, management of industrial sewage/effluent (e.g., for mining operations) and environmental laboratories; and
• waste (garbage and organics) and recycling collection, processing and disposal.

Communications, information sharing and information technology (IT)

• workers maintaining IT and communications infrastructure for medical facilities, governments facilities, emergency response and command agencies, energy and utilities, banks and financial institutions, employees working from home, and other critical infrastructure categories and personnel, including managing information and cyber-security incidents;
• newspapers, television, radio, online news outlets and other media services;
• IT, radio, cable providers and telecommunications services, including phone, internet, wireless communications and data centres; and
• satellite operations, undersea cable landing stations, internet exchange points, and manufacturers and distributors of communications equipment.

Non-health essential service providers

• feed, water, bedding, veterinary care, veterinary supply, transport and processing services for livestock, animal shelters and pets;
• coroners and workers performing mortuary services, including funeral homes, crematoriums and cemeteries, as well as workers supporting the appropriate handling, identification, storage, transportation and certification of human remains;
• banks and their branches, credit unions and related financial institutions, as well as workers who support security and technical operations supporting financial institutions;
• capital markets, including the British Columbia Securities Commission, self-regulatory organizations, exchanges, clearing agencies and investment-fund dealers, advisers and managers;
• services related to bankruptcy/credit restructuring and non-bank sources of capital, cheque-cashing outlets, money sending and money remittance services, currency exchange services, pawn brokers;
• accounting, payroll, translation services, legal services and insurance providers; insurance assessment and adjudication providers;
• plumbers, electricians, elevator maintenance providers, exterminators, property management services, custodial/janitorial workers, cleaning services, fire safety and sprinkler systems, building systems maintenance and repair technicians, engineers, mechanics, smelters and other service providers who provide services that are necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation and daily essential operation of residences and commercial buildings;
• educational institutions — including public and private K-12 schools, and public post-secondary institutions — for purposes of facilitating remote learning or performing essential functions, including services that are needed to ensure the safety, security, welfare, integrity and health of the community, property and research and certain operational and contractual activities, if operating under rules for physical distancing or other recommendations from the PHO;
• in relation to research universities, services including COVID-19-related research, residential housing and food services for students on campus, building operations and risk management, animal care services, health services for students, IT including data security and infrastructure, finance/payroll/administration/HR/communications and child care for essential university staff;
• laundromats, dry cleaners and laundry service providers;
• restaurants and other facilities that prepare and serve food, if operating under rules for social and physical distancing or other recommendations from the PHO;
• towing services and other vehicle repair/maintenance operations;
• schools and other entities that provide free food services to students or members of the public, if operating under rules for physical distancing or other recommendations from the PHO;
• construction work, in accordance with PHO direction, construction firms, skilled trades and professionals, and construction and light industrial machinery and equipment rental;
• businesses that ensure global continuity of supply of primary and value-added forestry/silviculture products (e.g., lumber, pulp, paper, wood fuel, etc.) including soft-pulp products, such as protective masks, gowns, drapes, screens and other hospital supplies, as well as household paper products;
• postal services, including both public and private mailing, shipping, logistics, courier, delivery services and post office boxes;
• research services supporting essential sectors, including medical/clinical research and industrial research;
• all government (local, regional, provincial) functions or services;
• businesses and non-profits that provide support services to citizens and businesses on behalf of government – these include but are not limited to: income assistance and disability assistance, pensions, residential tenancy, BC Services Card, drivers’ licensing, Affordable Child Care Benefit, Medical Services Plan, forest-worker support programs, notary, commissioner, affidavits, pesticide exams, invigilation for essential trades, 1 888 COVID19, verify by video, and helpdesk for BCeID;
• weather forecasters;
• businesses that ensure global continuity of supply of mining materials and products (e.g., metals such as copper, nickel and gold) and that support supply chains including
  • mining operations, production and processing;
  • mineral exploration and development; and
  • mining supply and services that support supply chains in the mining industry including maintenance of operations, health and safety;
• workers at operations centres necessary to maintain other essential functions;
• professional services, including lawyers and paralegals, engineers, accountants, translators;
• land registration services and real estate agent services;
• building code enforcement, inspection of buildings, building sites and building systems by building officials and registered professionals (architects and engineers);
• public washrooms and hygiene facilities (toilets, handwash stations, showers) for unsheltered persons; and
• parks and green space for public health and sheltering (for people experiencing homelessness).

Yes. For up-to-date information on Waste Management visit the RDCO website

FAQ – Solid Waste Management During COVID-19 Crisis

RDCO Updated March 24, 2020 

Is my garbage, recycling and yard waste still being picked up?

Waste management is an essential service and we know residents count on being able to put their waste out at the curb. We are doing all we can to make sure that the service is impacted as little as possible.

• In order to protect our garbage services which is the priority for pick up, we are suspending some non-essential items like tag-a-bag options and cart upgrades. 

• For now, all the usual schedule for garbage, recycling and yard waste are being maintained.  Should anything change due to staff shortages residents will be notified. 

• To stay up to date, download the Recycle Coach app or visit rdco.com/recycle.

What do I do with my recycling if the depots close?

Store your recyclables safely in your home, garage, basement until depots reopen. 

• Please do not put depot only items such as refundables, plastic bags, Styrofoam, glass, electronics etc. into recycling carts or the garbage.

• We need to ensure the garbage collection can remain running smoothly and not be overwhelmed by materials that shouldn’t be in your garbage

What happens if the Hazardous Waste Depot closes?

The Battery Doctors continues to accept household hazardous wastes at this time. 

• Should this facility close, please store all household hazardous wastes safely in a garage or shed until the depot can reopen.  Do not put household hazardous wastes in the garbage.

• We need to ensure the garbage collection can remain running smoothly and not be overwhelmed by materials that shouldn’t be in your garbage.

Is the Westside Transfer Station on Asquith still open?

This facility continues to run as per usual however traffic volume at this facility is a concern. 

• Please limit your visits to this facility to ensure physical distancing can be maintained on site. 

• Effective March 23^rd, no cash payment will be accepted.  Please use contactless payment whenever possible.

Why are cart upgrades being suspended?

In an effort to ensure contractor staff is available for the essential service of garbage collection, cart upgrades will be suspended until further notice.  

Will I still be able to get a broken cart repaired?

Cart repairs and replacements will still take place, however priority will be given to carts that are no longer completely functional. 

Why is tag-a-bag being suspended?

To limit the amount of bagged waste that collectors have to manually handle, tag-a-bag for extra garbage is being suspended at this time.

• New homes waiting for bin delivery will still be allowed to use bags at the curb until their carts arrive.

What do I do with donation material if charities stop accepting donations temporarily?

Please store all material for donation such as clothes, toys and household goods in your home.  Do not place donations next to community bins as this is a form of illegal dumping and the charities do not have staff available to clean up.

• Please do not add this material to your household garbage. We need to ensure the garbage collection can remain running smoothly and not be overwhelmed by materials that shouldn’t be in your cart.

What do I do with extra garbage if there is no tag-a-bag available?

Extra garbage can be taken directly to the Westside Transfer station in West Kelowna or the Glenmore landfill.  Additionally, you could speak with neighbours to see if they have room for your extra garbage.  Continue to recycle bulky boxes in your recycling cart. 

Is now a good time to renovate and spring clean while home due to COVID-19?

Please limit unnecessary trips you are taking out into the community, including visits to transfer stations and the landfill.  Transfer stations and the Glenmore Landfill need to be remain open and extra trips while people are home can overwhelm and put strain on these very important services. 

Are events still going ahead like the Repair Café, Trunk Sale or Community Cleanup?

All events have been cancelled at this time.  We will revisit any scheduled fall events as we get closer to those dates. 

Will I still be able to pickup the composter or rain barrel I ordered?

The pickup events for the composters and rain barrels will be postponed.  If you purchased a composter or rain barrel we will contact you directly through email on how and when you can pick up your purchase.   

No. From the week of April 20th the Winfield Bottle Depot has reopened weekdays 10am-3pm with a limit of 5 customers in the depot at a time.  If you are unable to get in during the adjusted opening time, store your recyclables safely in your home, garage, basement until depots expand the hours of operation. 

• Please do not put depot only items such as refundables, plastic bags, styrofoam, glass, electronics etc. into recycling carts or the garbage. To ensure the garbage collection can remain running smoothly and not be overwhelmed by materials that shouldn’t be in your garbage.

Avoid group gathering in public spaces

Maintain 2 metre distance (approx. 6 ft)

• All essential services in Lake Country will continue to be provided (water, wastewater, emergency response, road maintenance) in addition to limited services for permitting, bylaw enforcement, inspections and business licensing;
• Most District of Lake Country municipal services are available on-line through the website at www.lakecountry.bc.ca. District staff can be reached at 250.766.5650 or email customerservice@lakecountry.bc.ca and staff will endeavor to respond as soon as possible;
  • The Report a Problem/Service Request form can be accessed online by visiting www.lakecountry.bc.ca. 

To let us know about a municipal service issue you have experienced, or observed firsthand, please use the online Report a Problem/Request Service form so we can address the issue as soon as possible and track the response.  Thank you for your patience as it may take longer than usual to respond due to reduced staff levels available. 

https://forms.lakecountry.bc.ca/Administration/Report-a-Problem 

Yes. Bylaw Enforcement and essential municipal services are being provided for Lake Country citizens, along with a simplified model for many regular municipal services are still proceeding.

Bylaw Officers are available Monday to Friday 8:30 am to 4:00 pm with seasonal officers working weekends & some evenings from May to September. If you leave a voice message after hours or use the online form, the Bylaw Officer on duty the following working day will respond. 

You can use the online Report a Problem/Request Service form for Bylaw Enforcement issues or call 250-766-6673.

Part of living in a community is respecting each other's rights. Issues are dealt with on a complaint basis. The goal of bylaw enforcement is not to ticket, but to first provide information and work with residents so we can preserve the quality of life we all enjoy in Lake Country.

Guidelines to support the Provincial Health Officer's orders (released Wednesday, April 1, 2020) 

Please note: Spion Kop is provincial crown land. To report issues please contact the conservation officer 24-hour hotline: 1-877-952-7277 or #7277 on the TELUS Mobility Network. You can also use the online form to report issues to the Province. (https://forms.gov.bc.ca/environment/rapp/)

To report issues with firearms or public safety please contact the RCMP Office at 250-766-2288.

Extra time on your hands and thinking you'd like to be more informed? Learn more about Lake Country Bylaws. https://www.lakecountry.bc.ca/en/local-government/bylaws-and-policies.aspx

• Lake Country Municipal Hall                        
• Fire Administration
• Winfield Arena                                                 
• Winfield Curling Club
• Creekside Theatre                                          
• Beasley Community Centre
• Seniors Activity Centre                                 
• Lake Country Museum
• Playgrounds and Skateboard Park
• Sports Courts including Pickleball, Basketball, Ball Hockey, Baseball Diamonds

No – Regular Council Meetings, Public Hearings and Committee Meetings are cancelled until further notice. Special Council Meetings may be scheduled when a decision of Council is required to allow staff to take a certain course of action.

Local governments need to ensure that they are meeting the public health orders and necessary physical distancing – yet they also need to keep functioning so that they can continue to make needed decisions about public services, assets and finance.

Yes - to apply for a new Building Permit please note the updated process:

• Drop off new Building Permit Applications at the front entrance on the north side of Municipal Hall.
• Place all documents in the small drop box slot to the right of the main entrance of Municipal Hall.
• If your documents are too large to fit in the drop box, place them in the temporary Large Drop Box bin provided directly below the small drop box.
• Place all cheques in the small drop box slot on the Municipal Hall building, so they are secure inside the building.
• Make sure to include the name of applicant and type of application (purpose) in the envelop with the cheque.
• Email building@lakecountry.bc.ca to inform us of the drop off.
• You can also email completed applications (excluding drawings) to building@lakecountry.bc.ca to have them processed; and follow up with payment and two (2) sets of drawings  delivered via the drop box at Municipal Hall or Canada Post mail.

 For complete Building Permits, ready to be issued:

• Permits that are ready to be picked up, will be delivered by Building Inspectors while they are in the field for inspections.
• Water meters, if required, will also be dropped off at this time.
• As a point of reference, here are some frequently-used online resources:

• Coordinate with building@lakecountry.bc.ca to determine the cost of the permit, and have a cheque ready for Building Inspectors to take with them back to the Municipal Hall to complete payment.

• Building Permit Application Form
  
• Access Permit Application Form  
• Water/Sewer Connection Application Form  
• Simple Building Permit Requirements Information Bulletin  

Guidance from the province to construction sites operating during COVID-19: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020EMBC0002-000542

The inspector will require physical distancing during inspections, including having all workers pause and relocate in open air briefly to enable our inspectors to complete inspections. One person may escort the inspector to ensure safety while on-site, while maintaining a minimum separation of 2 metres.

Yes – work is continuing and schedule updates will be provided on the District website at lakecountry.bc.ca. 

To find out more about any specific project please visit https://www.lakecountry.bc.ca/projects  

Guidance from the province to construction sites operating during COVID-19: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020EMBC0002-000542

Where can I get accurate information about COVID-19?

Public health officials require anyone arriving in B.C from a foreign country to self-isolate for 14 days, staying away from work or school. Guidance for self-isolation is available on the BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC) website: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/testing-isolation

• Help flatten the curve by checking symptoms online. The self-assessment app can be downloaded here: https://covid19.thrive.health/
• If you or a family member have symptoms or need medical advice, call 811.
• For the most up-to-date health information on the #COVID19 outbreak, follow the BC Centre for Disease Control at @CDCofBC or visit: www.bccdc.ca
• For up-to-date non-health information, including the latest travel restrictions and provincial and federal programs, call 1 888 COVID-19 or visit https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/emergency-preparedness-response-recovery/covid-19-provincial-support
• Latest COVID-19 updates and statements: https://news.gov.bc.ca/Search?q=COVID-19
• Latest orders and directives from the provincial health officer can be found https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/office-of-the-provincial-health-officer/current-health-topics

For recommendations on protecting yourself and your community, including for employers, businesses, schools and those planning events of less than 50, visit: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/coronavirus-(novel)

For common questions about COVID-19 and terminology, visit: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/common-questions

For the COVID-19 pandemic preparedness and planning materials, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/office-of-the-provincial-health-officer/current-health-topics/pandemic-influenza

For the latest videos and livestreaming of COVID-19 media availabilities, visit: https://www.facebook.com/BCProvincialGovernment/

To view tables of epidemic curve and age distribution, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/Epidemic_Curve_Age_Distribution_March_20_2020.pdf

Yes. 

The Federal Govts economic stimulus plan has some great measures. March 18, 2020, the Prime Minister announced a new set of economic measures to help stabilize the economy during this challenging period. These measures, delivered as part of the Government of Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan, will provide up to $27 billion in direct support to Canadian workers and businesses.
https://www.canada.ca/en/department-finance/news/2020/03/canadas-covid-19-economic-response-plan-support-for-canadians-and-businesses.html

To learn more about Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan, visit: https://www.canada.ca/en/department-finance/economic-response-plan.html

For information on B.C.’s COVID Action Plan and other government resources and updates, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/covid19

Guidance to retail food and grocery stores operating during COVID-19: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020EMBC0015-000587

The Province is providing a $3-million emergency grant from the Community Gaming Grants program to Food Banks British Columbia: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020MAH0049-000583

The B.C. government announces support and relief for the province’s most vulnerable and those living in BC Housing: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020MAH0013-000536

The B.C. government is taking steps to support the child care sector during the COVID-19 pandemic: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020CFD0041-000530

The B.C. government is waiving the Medical Services Plan (MSP) coverage wait period for people moving back to B.C. from COVID-19 impacted areas. In addition, the B.C. government is planning to provide health coverage to British Columbians who are out of province and unable to return. https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/health-drug-coverage/msp/bc-residents

Resource for managing COVID-19 related stress, anxiety and depression: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/health-safety/covid19_stressmanagement_5_accessible.pdf  

WorkSafeBC resources available for employers and workers: https://www.worksafebc.com/en/about-us/covid-19-updates

On March 21, 2020, the federal government announced new measures to provide support for Canadians at home or abroad, as well as support for international students, seasonal agricultural workers and other temporary foreign workers: https://pm.gc.ca/en/news/news-releases/2020/03/21/prime-minister-announces-efforts-bring-canadians-home-abroad

COVID-19 Provincial support and information: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/emergency-preparedness-response-recovery/covid-19-provincial-support?utm_campaign=20200319_GCPE_AM_COVID_4_NOTIFICATION_BCGOV_BCGOV_EN_BC__NOTIFICATION 

See the comprehensive set of resources for Central Okanagan businesses from the COEDC: https://www.investkelowna.com/covid19/

The Province is funding the expansion of bc211, a provincewide information and referral service, to match seniors whose support network has been affected by the COVID-19 outbreak with volunteers. To learn more about bc211, visit: http://www.bc211.ca/  

To learn more about United Way Better at Home Program, visit: http://betterathome.ca/

Seniors and people who want to volunteer and who are well can call bc211 or visit: www.bc211.ca/

Fact Sheet on various renters’ supports: https://news.gov.bc.ca/factsheets/information-for-renters-and-landlords-during-covid-19. You can also find more details on actions to support renters at https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/residential-tenancies/covid-19. 

The provincial government also launched a temporary rental supplement program to assist renters who may have difficulty paying rent. This supplement is in addition to funding available from the federal government and the $1,000 B.C. Emergency Benefit for Workers. We encourage all renters to continue paying their rent and talking with their landlord to establish a payment schedule if they can’t pay rent right now. The temporary rent supplement will provide for up to $500 per month, for eligible households to be paid directly to the landlord on the renter’s behalf. Additional information will be available at http://www.bchousing.org.  

Are there supports for students? 

April 22 Prime Minister Trudeau announced a proposed Canada Emergency Student Benefit, which would provide support to students and new graduates who are not eligible for the Canada Emergency Response Benefit. This benefit would provide $1,250 per month for eligible students or $1,750 per month for eligible students with dependents or disabilities. The benefit would be available from May to August 2020. Backgrounder: Support for students and recent graduates impacted by COVID-19

Learn more about the Ministry of Education’s CommunityLINK program: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/education-training/k-12/administration/program-management/communitylink

Education assistants find new ways to help students: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020EDUC0031-000723

What is being done about family and social supports for child care and mental-health counselling for students?

The Government of British Columbia has launched Here2Talk, a new mental-health counselling and referral service for post-secondary students: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020AEST0024-000698

March 31, 2020 an announcement was made that essential workers can fill out a new “parent” form to identify their need for urgent child care. Forms can be accessed by calling 1 888 338-6622 and selecting Option 4, or online:

www.gov.bc.ca/essential-service-child-care

Child Care Resource Referral (CCRR) centres in 38 communities will act as community-based hubs. The CCRRs will reach out to essential-service workers in their area who filled in the form to connect them with available licensed child care spaces.

Applicants will be asked:

• which category of essential worker they are;
• their child’s age; and
• in which community they need child care.

Child care spaces will be prioritized for children whose parents work in public health and health services, social services, law enforcement, first responders and emergency response sectors. Additional spaces will then be given to families working in other crucial roles, defined as essential service workers.

March 24, 2020 the Ministry of Children and Family Development provided answers to common questions regarding child care impacts and supports. See them here: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/family-and-social-supports/covid-19/qa_child_care_sector.pdf?fbclid=IwAR04CzGQxsia7DSYVE8zITlff_P6ilXkM2u4mGnQuEZHbZ0lzRdY6gcdnUQ

Are there any specific supports for businesses?

Yes. 

The Province is providing enhanced relief for businesses by reducing most commercial property tax bills by an average of 25%, along with new measures to support local governments facing temporary revenue shortfalls as a result of COVID-19: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020FIN0020-000703

May 4, 2020 an expansion to the temporary lay-off period was announced. https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020LBR0013-000810

April 15, 2020 announcement: 

A new B.C. Business COVID-19 Support Service will serve as a single point of contact for businesses throughout the province looking for information on resources available during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The B.C. Business COVID-19 Support Service will be operated by Small Business BC (SBBC), a non-profit organization that is well known and respected by the business community. The service will act as a one-stop resource to answer questions about supports available to businesses from the provincial and federal governments, industry and community partners. 

Starting on Thursday, April 16, 2020, advisors are available Monday to Friday, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Pacific time) and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 1 833 254-4357. Inquiries can also be emailed to covid@smallbusinessbc.ca, or raised on the live-chat feature available on SBBC’s dedicated website: https://covid.smallbusinessbc.ca

March 27, 2020 announcement on small business supports: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/employment-business-and-economic-development/business-management/small-business/covid-19_small_business_supports.pdf

The BC Economic Development Association has compiled a resource list for support to BC businesses: 

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1OjtkSJ_VedTzPVJIRL2fDp8NyXA07RkXMB6St12eYdc/preview 

Business credit availability program 

See the comprehensive set of resources for Central Okanagan businesses from the COEDC: https://www.investkelowna.com/covid19/

Here is a resource for you to look up what types of grants and extra funding your organization may be eligible for. Access supports from other agencies and levels of government.

https://ca.fundingportal.com/

Okanagan College has developed a Professional Development webpage with three components: https://www.okanagan.bc.ca/pd

1. OC Programming - free webinars and courses (a few now, and hoping to add some each week), as well as low cost options.
2. Curated Content - webinars/courses being done by others that fit the needs we're hearing about
3. Core resources - links to the local task force resources that the community has put together, as well as key government sites.

Are there supports for vulnerable populations?

Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry has reached out to the social service sector to emphasize the importance of services to vulnerable people who may be at greater risk of COVID-19. 

View the Factsheet for Unsheltered people. 

BC Centre for Disease Control COVID-19 Harm Reduction and Overdose Response

Information to help us all stay healthy

Are the utility companies and banks providing any relief options for individuals? 

Yes. Here are some links to the relief programs we are aware of: 

BC Hydro help with utility bills

ICBC autoplan payment deferral 

Student loan payments suspended without interest

Employment insurance benefits

BC Housing rental supplement program

Guide to managing debt