Cash is in hand for a contentious review of banning boats on the Shuswap River.
The Electoral Area Advisory Committee approved $70,000 Wednesday for further consultation work on vessel restriction regulations on the river in the Enderby area.
“We have to try and finish this off,” said director Herman Halvorson.
The Regional District of North Okanagan had been considering motorized vessel restrictions on three parts of the river because of environmental and safety concerns. But the process stalled after considerable criticism arose among boaters.
A survey indicated a range of 45 to 46 per cent in favour of regulations and a range of 42 to 52 per cent opposed.
A ban had been proposed on motorized vessels from south Mabel Lake upstream to Shuswap Falls and from Trinity Valley Road upstream to the eastern end of Skookumchuck Rapids Park. It was also suggested that there be a vessel engine size limit of 10 horsepower from Mara Lake upstream to Trinity Valley Road.
As a result of the protests, directors decided to engage a third-party to meet with residents and user groups.
It’s expected a consultant will be hired soon.
“The process will start fairly quickly and be completed in April or May,” said Halvorson, adding that hopes a constructive discussion can proceed in the community.
“I believe everyone wants to see if there is a solution to this.”
