Water Rates in Killiney Beach & Westshore Estates

This is a story from Castanet November 24, 2024, that highlights the ongoing challenges and frustrations surrounding a proposed infrastructure project. The latest figures presented to the Board indicate a staggering cost of 29 million dollars, a figure that has raised eyebrows and sparked significant concern among community members and stakeholders alike. Despite this alarming financial projection, it is important to note that, as of now, no right of way has been established for the project, which is a critical step in initiating any construction. Furthermore, no grants have been received to help offset these costs, and alarmingly, not a single shovel load of dirt has been moved to commence construction. This lack of progress is particularly disheartening when considering that the original feasibility study estimated the total cost of the project at a much more manageable 8 million dollars, a figure that now seems almost quaint in comparison to the current projection.

In light of these developments, I took the initiative to bring forward a motion aimed at shelving this project altogether, arguing that it is simply unaffordable given the current economic landscape and the financial burden it would place on our community. However, my motion was met with defeat by the Municipal Directors, a group that seems unwilling to acknowledge the financial implications of this project. These Directors, who will not be contributing financially to the construction, operation, or the ever-increasing ballooning costs associated with the project, have opted to continue pursuing a course of action that many believe is not in the best interest of our community.

This situation is not just a matter of financial oversight; it is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention. There are viable twenty-first-century solutions available that are far more affordable and practical than the current proposal. For instance, point of entry systems and reverse osmosis systems represent innovative alternatives that have been proven to be far less expensive while still delivering water at a quality level that meets the needs and preferences of homeowners. These systems not only provide a more economical solution but also align with modern sustainability practices, making them a more attractive option for our community moving forward.

It is crucial that we reassess our priorities and consider these alternative solutions seriously. The current trajectory of this project, with its inflated costs and lack of tangible progress, is not sustainable. We must advocate for a strategic pivot towards more feasible and efficient water management systems that can serve our community effectively without placing an undue financial burden on our residents. The time for a change in direction is now, and it is essential that we take a stand to ensure the long-term well-being of our community.

Water pipeline cost soars

Colin Dacre - Nov 24, 2024 / 4:00 am | Story: 519006

Photo: Unsplash

A long-discussed proposal to improve drinking water quality on North Westside of Okanagan Lake has gotten a lot more expensive.

The Regional District of Central Okanagan board will hear Thursday that planning work is expected to start next year on a unified drinking water system for the chain of small communities on Westside Road.

Killiney Beach and Westshore Estates are now serviced by separate water intakes from Okanagan Lake that sees water chlorinated and not treated any further. Neither system meets B.C.’s water quality standards.

The RDCO also owns and operates the Fintry/Valley of the Sun water distribution system, which draws from two groundwater wells in the Fintry delta. That system meets drinking water objectives without additional treatment, due to its groundwater source.

The regional district is proposing to supply the Killiney Beach and Westshore Estates systems with clean drinking water via a pipeline from the Fintry system.

The project had a cost estimate of $13M in 2022, which has since ballooned to $23M due to inflationary pressures.

Next year, $200,000 has been set aside for the RDCO to advance regulatory approvals and secure a right-of-way for the pipeline. Another $250,000 will be spent in 2026 to complete field investigations and advance design work.

It is hoped grants will be secured to offset some of the spending while the RDCO works to get the project to “shovel ready” status.

The Killiney and Westshore water systems are currently underfunded, and to help pay for the project, annual water rates are expected to increase by $304 and $608, respectively, in 2027.

There are currently 425 parcels serviced by the water system in Killiney and 525 in Westshore Estates.

Photo: RDCO