The RDOS gave unanimous approval (in committee) to the proposition of seeking a 30 license of occupation for the Fairview Mine townsite or a portion thereof.

Jessica Murphy spokesperson for the Fairview Heritage Townsite Society told regional district directors the present tenure agreement is about to end and this longer term license is needed. The goals of the Society is to help preserve the heritage and ecological nature of the area. Murphy was quick to point out that the license is only for 5% of the actual land once in the mining community that operated circa 1898-1902.

The society is attempting to attract a developer who would become a partner in attracting tourist to this incredible site with view of the valley all to the way to Osoyoos. Murphy says the society would like to build a 40 room hotel or even a smaller 10 bed Country Inn. They had engaged an architect to give them some plans and details about layout and viewscapes.

Questions and statements:

Director Hovanes – how many members, how active has the society been in recent years?

Murphy – “it has been quiet for the past 8-9 years. Society did not want to interfere with plans for a hotel downtown” Our membership is probably about ten but could grow to fifty very quickly”

Director Shafer – “with the car racing track on the other side of the valley coming this year – the Tee Pee, if constructed, would be visible”.

Director Siddon – “would recommend a tourist info booth at this time”. In Ok Falls we have heritage sites and buildings but the cost of doing anything is prohibitive”

Director Hovanes – “I support the idea of the 30 year license of occupation to the RDOS but sub-leasing to the society should be left to another time”