It could be lights, camera, action again in the North Okanagan.
Two production companies are currently considering shooting movies in the Enderby area.
“If the one comes, it will begin shooting in three weeks,” said Jon Summerland, with the Okanagan Film Commission, who wasn’t able to provide further details.
The second movie would have a budget of about $10 million.
In 2011, a horror movie, No Tell Motel, shot in both Enderby and Falkland.
The Regional District of North Okanagan provided $24,766 to the commission last year, and it is seeking $34,000 in 2012.
“We need the money and we hope the regional district is still film-commission friendly,” said Summerland.
Much of the money from the Okanagan’s three regional districts goes towards encouraging film producers to bring their projects to the valley. That may include putting producers up in hotels and showing them potential locations around the region.
If a movie is shot in the North Okanagan, the production company uses local restaurants, hotels and other services.
John Trainor, film commission chairperson, says he understands the financial pressures facing local communities.
“Sewers and roads are important and they have to be done but this (movie industry) brings money back into the region,” said Trainor, who is also an Armstrong city councillor.
“Every year we’re busier and we’re bringing productions in. But we operate on a budget that hasn’t increased in five years.”
Part of the film/TV industry that is expanding in the Okanagan is animation.
“This business employs 65 people on a small show and the average wage is $65,000,” said Summerland of the possibility of creating local jobs.
The $34,000 request will be considered as part of the regional district’s 2012 budget process.
“There will be a discussion,” said Patrick Nicol, RDNO chairperson.
“Over the years, they have provided good value for money.”
Director Shirley Fowler supports the film commission as an economic development strategy.
“You hope there will be an impact for hotels, restaurants and culture,” she said.
“They are also providing training for your young people and they can then get employment.”
