The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) is looking back on a busy milestone year as 2025 comes to a close.
“This year, we were honoured to celebrate the RDEK’s 60th anniversary. Sixty years of collaboration, service, and steady growth,” said Rob Gay, board chair of the RDEK.
“The issues are evolving. From climate adaptation to housing, from sustainability to emergency preparedness, but the values that guide us remain constant: collaboration, service, and stewardship.”
Key projects completed this year included the opening of the Radium Transfer Station, the Cold Spring Creek Mitigation Project and the Wycliffe Park Campground.
Heading into 2026, the RDEK is focusing on feedback and optimization across the region, such as zoning changes, waste management and projects such as Connect the Basin.
Looking ahead
“As we review completed projects and talk about upcoming endeavours, it is important to note that staff and volunteers put in a considerable amount of work to secure grant funding for projects to alleviate the taxpayer.”
Connect the Basin will be spearheaded by the Columbia Basin Broadband Corporation to bring high-speed internet to 1,355 homes in East Kootenay. It’s set to be complete in March 2027.
The RDEK is also aiming to complete a project to explore expanding bylaws to allow more home accessory dwelling units by summer this year.
“The RDEK Board of Directors made some zoning changes in 2024, as required by the Province, but are now seeking feedback from residents and property owners about what types of ADU opportunities they would—or would not—like to see,” added Gay.
Residents can expect the Yellow Bin system to be phased out, with the RDEK seeking feedback on other recycling and waste diversion services through producer responsibility programs.
Lastly, anyone looking to be more active in local governance can run in the next general elections. Candidate nominations run from September 1 to 11, with the campaign period beginning on the 19th.
“You will be entrusted with making decisions that directly affect the daily lives of residents, families, local business owners and many others in the community,” he said. “It is important to think about how you can best serve your community if you are elected.”
Elections are scheduled for October 17, 2026. The RDEK will launch a general local election project page by the spring, but any questions can be sent to elections@rdek.bc.ca in the meantime.
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