A $2 environmental fee to use the Okanagan river channel has been rescinded for now, after the City of Penticton and Penticton Indian Band have agreed to enter into discussions on the matter.
“The Penticton Indian Band is our neighbour, and we are committed to working with them to resolve outstanding issues,” said acting mayor Garry Litke. “It is beneficial to have these protocols in place to ensure our joint interests are addressed.”
The City of Penticton and Penticton Indian Band said late Friday afternoon that they have signed a letter of intent agreeing to enter into discussions with the aim to resolve outstanding maintenance concerns relating to the river channel cleanup.
As the parties work toward a co-operative solution, the Penticton Indian Band has indicated the $2 environmental fee will be rescinded effective immediately. Early this week Coyote Cruises, who runs a tube rental and bus shuttle service along the channel, sent out a press release that the board of directors were implementing the fee as a strategic move to ensure their stewardship to the land and water is intact.
“We are pleased that the City of Penticton is working with us on good environmental stewardship. We all play a part in taking care of the land. The end result is a healthy river channel and positive experience for everyone,” said Penticton Indian Band Chief Jonathan Kruger.
Check out the Penticton Western News weekly video segment, Word On The Street, by clicking here to see people think of the $2 levy..
