SMWS: bylaw clarification

The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) is aware of an administrative error within in the Sage Mesa Water System Loan Authorization Bylaw No. 3076, 2024. While the error is unfortunate, the error does not affect the validity of the bylaw.

Bylaw 3075, 2024, the Sage Mesa Water System Service Establishment Bylaw establishes an RDOS water service for Sage Mesa.  The Service Establishment Bylaw works in conjunction with Bylaw No. 3076, 2024, the Sage Mesa Water System Loan Authorization, which authorises the RDOS to borrow up to $33,034,000 for Sage Mesa Water System capital upgrades.

Both Bylaws remain at third reading and cannot be adopted by the Board without elector assent.

Below is a copy of Bylaw No. 3076, 2024, the Sage Mesa Water System Loan Authorization. The error is in underlined in red within a whereas clause.

• Whereas: Generally considered non-binding, non-operative "background" information.

• Therefore: Introduces the legally enforceable, operative terms.

Answers to specific citizen questions are provided below:

• No sewer system is being proposed or funded under Bylaw No 3076, 2024

• The borrowing is for capital upgrades — not for operating or maintenance costs.

• Ratepayers within the Sage Mesa Water System Service Area would be responsible for repaying the borrowed amount over the loan term.

• The bylaw remains at third reading. It cannot be adopted without a successful assent vote.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Riley

rgettens@rdos.bc.ca

250-488-0246