The North Okanagan Regional District is not wading into plans for a telecommunications tower.
Telus Mobility has asked RDNO for input on a proposed 60-metre-tall antenna system on Commonage Road. However, the Electoral Area Advisory Committee has decided not to take action.
“We have no jurisdiction over what the communications people do,” said director Mike Gavinchuk, adding that it is a federally regulated matter.
The EAAC is asking Telus to hold an input meeting with the residents in the Howards Road area potentially affected by the proposed antenna system.
“We’ve now asked Telus three times to meet with the residents,” said Gavinchuk.
In a letter to RDNO, Telus officials state the federal government has established a process for consultation.
“Given the period of time that has passed since Telus began its consultation for 276 Commonage Road, it would be appropriate for the Regional District of North Okanagan to immediately engage Telus identifying any reasonable and relevant concerns there may be,” said Morris Bodnar, Interior director.
“Should the regional district choose not to engage Telus regarding the Commonage Road proposal by Sept. 30, Industry Canada may have no choice but to consider the consultation process requirements to have been satisfied.”
Bodnar adds that Telus established a consultation process with the general public in May 2010.
Despite Telus’ appeals, the regional district is adamant that it is not taking an official role.
“We don’t have any jurisdiction,” said director Herman Halvorson.
“The residents will have to deal with Telus directly.”
