Coldstream officials are making waves over new dock rules.
The provincial government is considering letting lakefront property owners construct docks without a formal application. There is some concern, though, that could lead to local regulations for construction and placement being overlooked by the resident.
“This is one of the dumbest ideas the province has come up with,” said Coun. Pat Cochrane.
“I can’t understand the rationale unless it’s an opportunity to have less (provincial) staff.”
Coldstream will write Victoria and insist that any permission for private moorage requires compliance with local government rules. The municipality will also investigate developing its own process for dock permits.
Coun. Richard Enns insists the provincial government’s possible actions must be addressed.
“It’s downloading responsibility on to local government,” he said.
Thefts increase
It’s not known what’s been driving an upswing in thefts from vehicles in Coldstream.
RCMP statistics show there were 40 thefts from vehicles between October and December 2016 compared to 24 during the same period in 2015.
“It could be the proximity to the hub, Vernon,” Supt. Jim McNamara told Coldstream council Tuesday.
McNamara pointed out that thefts are linked to other social issues in the community.
“A lot of property crime is a result of substance abuse. Criminals are involved in crime to support their habit,” he said.
McNamara is urging Coldstream residents to keep their vehicles locked and to not have valuables in their vehicles that may entice thieves.
Budget moves ahead
Coldstream is moving towards its 2017 financial plan.
On Tuesday, council gave two readings to the budget, which includes a 2.75 per cent tax increase.
The next step will be for the district to put the proposed budget before the public for input.
“An open house will likely be held in the next three weeks and then those comments will come back to council for consideration,” said Trevor Seibel, chief administrative officer.
