Every spring, the freshet is a concern for residents in communities throughout the Shuswap.
Having lived here for most of my life, I understand the danger and threat of flooding brings to communities in our region.
The stress, heartache and grief that families go through to see their homes and their possessions destroyed by natural disasters is unimaginable.
Recently, on May 3, when the landslide hit the Shuswap River near Enderby, I drove out to meet with officials and first responders to survey the damage and find out what actions were taken by local authorities.
I commend the men and women who worked so hard to ensure all impacted residents were safe, and clear the slide debris so roads could be reopened.
Our government continues to provide support, co-ordination and guidance to the local authority as needed.
The Province will also pay for all eligible response and recovery activities undertaken, as we recognize that all necessary decisions made in this emergency are best undertaken by local authorities.
The best way to prevent damage in our communities going forward is investing in local flood mitigation projects.
On May 2, our government invested $333,333 in flood mitigation funding along with an additional $666,667 of funds shared between the Government of Canada and the City of Enderby, to upgrade the Regent Avenue lift station protecting 60 businesses and 250 homes in the area.
I commend the City of Enderby for being proactive in applying for this funding so the community can be better prepared for higher water flows. Not only will the main commercial area and nearby neighbourhoods be protected, but jobs and economic benefits will be created in the community with these upgrades.
As your MLA, I will continue to work with local government, regional districts and my colleagues to find new solutions to prevent flooding from impacting our communities.
-Greg Kyllo is the MLA for the Shuswap riding.
