Local MLA Linda Larson says she will head up a special committee to provide some oversight to the two year building project for the Okanagan Correctional Centre.

That committee will be comprised of local politicians and will be chaired by her.

The committee to be constituted with OIB Chief Clarence Louie and Area C Director Allan Patton along with the Mayors of Osoyoos, Oliver and Penticton.

The contractor of the 193 million dollar project will meet with the committee on a regular basis, says Larson.

Plenary Justice spokesman Michael Marasco of Plenary Justice (the contractor) says his group is “excited to begin our local hiring and launch construction work on this critical piece of infrastructure.

“We are committed to delivering the Okanagan Correctional Centre on time and on budget, and British Columbians can be assured our track record of finding innovation and sustainable solutions for public infrastructure and providing excellent value for taxpayer dollars will continue.”

Workers are already clearing soil from the construction site, putting up fencing and ensuring unspecified environmental protections are in place.

The jail is expected to be complete in the fall of 2016. the Osoyoos Indian Band has granted a 60-year lease and utilities service agreement to the B.C. government.