Televised Meeting of Council

1. Town of Oliver will apply for grants from the Okanagan Basin Water Board. Grants of between $3000 and $30000 are available for many municipalities, regional districts and non-profit community groups. The two projects are the rehabilitation of Flume 3 – south of Gallagher Lake and the Rockcliffe  Domestic well – chlorine analyzer. The Okanagan Nation Alliance is also applying for such grants and council decided to endorse local projects rather than supporting competing proposals.

2. In a split decision, Council approved a Temporary Use Permit for the operation of a wine making plant at 860 Fairview Rd. Owners Kristie and Scott Stefishen have been given a 3 year period to prove the viability of such an operation manufacturing up to 575 cases of wine. Staff pointed out that such an operation is not a permitted home occupation use so the permit is necessary.

3. Council has asked staff to report back on any ramifications of allowing Solar Hot Water Regulations similar to other municipalities in the province. Under the Climate Action Plan – municipal government is being urged to provide for innovative ways of saving on energy costs even though the installation of such devices can increase the cost of a home.

4.Council will go along with a request from Fortis to supply information on a host organization that could receive an award for Earth Hour.  Last year the Oliver Senior’s organization was the group but did not win the prize. Council was concerned about the late notification of such a programme  for 2012 but will try to work around it.