RDNO in strong financial position despite pandemic

May 6, 2020 | 11:58 AM

The Regional District of North Okanagan is moving ahead with $35 million worth of capital projects for this year, despite some impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Some of the current or recently completed capital projects include the Pat Duke Memorial Arena upgrade in Lumby, water main replacement projects, Okanagan Rail Trail erosion mitigation, and the Middleton Mountain trail upgrades.

General manager of finance Stephen Banmen, said creating strong financial policies and plans has allowed the RDNO to maintain and improve upon its strong financial position.

“Keeping tax increases to inflationary levels, while still providing a growing and a high level of service is a significant accomplishment,” Banmen said. “We commend the board of directors for their strong fiscal leadership and direction.”

While the pandemic had negative impacts on many organizations, Banmen said RDNO has been closely monitoring and managing its financial situation and is confident that its cash flow requirements will continue to be met through the outbreak.

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RDNO’s 2019 financial statements have been approved by the audit committee and the board of directors.

“The results show that the RDNO remains in a strong financial position,” Banmen said. “The RDNO completed the year under budget, while reserve balances increased by $8.7 million and long-term debt decreased by $5.7 million.”

“We have maintained our planned capital program and have not cancelled any construction projects. By doing so, we continue to invest significantly in our local economy and continue to maintain and upgrade important public amenities and infrastructure,” Banmen added.

The RDNO’s revenue has experienced some negative impacts due to the pandemic, such as not collecting transit fares and not being able to rent out recreation amenities like the Greater Vernon Athletics Park. However, the district has offset the decrease in revenue by eliminating some discretionary-type spending and delaying filling some vacant positions.

A further measure has been implemented in an effort to help ease the financial strain and cash flow challenges for residents. The board approved an extension in the billing cycles for its utility systems within the electoral areas of the North Okanagan. Depending on the billing frequency of the particular water or sewer utility, the RDNO’s the utility bills are being delayed up to 60 days.

“The RDNO continues to provide the majority of its services to the community throughout this difficult time,” an RDNO news release said. “Building permit and planning applications are still being processed and building inspections are still being conducted. The Regional District continues to provide safe drinking water and fire protection, as well as serving customers at the diversion and disposal facilities. Precautions have been implemented to make these services accessible and safe to residents and staff.”

by Pete McIntyre

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