SMWS: RDOS Information Release re: pre-feasibility study

The pre-feasibility study to determine the viability of a jointly owned water treatment facility is in draft form and not available for distribution currently.  However, the RDOS released the following today:

News Article

Published: March 31, 2026

INFORMATION RELEASE

As part of the Utility Acquisition Policy process, the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) and the snpink’tn Indian Band (PIB) conducted a pre-feasibility study to determine the viability of a jointly owned (RDOS and PIB) water treatment facility. Initial analysis of the pre-feasibility study does not indicate that a jointly owned water treatment facility is a viable solution to reduce the estimated capital costs required to address the water quality and water supply challenges within the Sage Mesa Water System.

Background

As part of the Utility Acquisition Policy, the RDOS engaged McElhanney Consulting Services Ltd. to provide engineering and financial assessments of the SMWS. Two water supply options were assessed: connecting to the City of Penticton, tying into the West Bench distribution system, or building a new stand-alone water treatment facility.

The McElhanney Engineering & Financial Assessment of the Sage Mesa Water System identified an option for consideration: evaluate a proposed new stand-alone water treatment facility to supply water to Sage Mesa, West Bench, and PIB. Expanding the ratepayer base could lower the per-household costs and allow the City of Penticton to postpone its own water treatment plant expansions. 

Following a meeting on March 13, 2026, between the RDOS and the City of Penticton, the City provided details confirming the City’s ability to supply water to the Sage Mesa Water System. If the Sage Mesa Water System referendum results in a yes vote, the RDOS Board of Directors will review the City’s information as part of broader discussions about long‑term service delivery options.

All potential service delivery pathways would be explored if the RDOS were to assume ownership of the Sage Mesa Water System. 

For further information, please visit the project page at rdosregionalconnections.ca.

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Mark Pendergraft, ChairRegional District of Okanagan-Similkameen 

Contact:

RDOS Communications250-490-4148Toll-free 1-877-610-3737