Notices:

Community Meeting this Monday Nov 14/22

Does this document look familiar to you?  This a is building permit application that is filled out by the property owner and then forwarded to the RDCK offices in Creston or in Nelson. The Kootenay Lake Chamber of Commerce is inviting you to a discussion on the RDCK Building Bylaws/ Permitting process and the BC Building Code at the Boswell Hall on Nov 14th from 7PM until 8:30 PM. RDCK officials and Garry Jackman will be present. We are asking the public to send in learning’s/questions/experiences to Info@kootenaylake.bc.ca by Nov 10 so that RDCK can be better prepared in answering the questions.

Background Info:

        The Kootenay Lake Chamber of Commerce would like to invite you to a discussion on the RDCK Building Bylaw/Permitting process and BC Building Code. The Building Bylaw regulates building construction and clarifies the responsibility of property owners, contractors and owner/builders in the Central Kootenay. The British Columbia Building Code applies to the construction, addition, alteration and change of use of most buildings.

        Among the many issues that come to mind when we think of building bylaws and difficulties, is Community Housing. The lack of Community Housing is one of the largest crises in BC.; Area A included. We have next to no rental housing, for seniors, families, employees and current residents.  Area A communities do not fit with most of the Community Housing initiatives/models for urban areas.

          There are many complex and interrelated reasons for this crisis. Obviously, the cost of building, the cost of materials, supply chain issues and construction delays all play a part in the housing crisis. It is mentioned among KLCC members and non members that the RDCK Building permit process is too slow and causes delays. Owners or builders also contribute to delays but it is interesting to note that this is not mentioned.

        We can all agree that we want an economically viable, sustainable and safe accommodations in our communities.

To facilitate the discussion, we would encourage owners and builders in Area A to share their experiences and learnings. Please send your questions to info@kootenaylake.bc.ca.  The meeting is planned for Nov 14th at the Boswell Hall from 7 until 8:30 pm. Refreshments will be served. 

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