By Tiffany Goodwein

RDNO looks to improve communication after audit reveals shortfalls

Jul 24, 2019 | 1:16 PM

They say communication is key which is why the Regional District of the North Okanagan is looking to improve communication with employees and the public.

The board supported the new communications plan last Wednesday.

In 2018, an audit was conducted by the new communications coordinator and it revealed “staff are generally unaware of what work is taking place in other departments. In many instances, staff are used to reading about an RDNO project or announcement in the newspaper before they learn about it internally,” the audit read.

Issues with a lack of debriefing after an event, a lack of media training amongst staff and difficulties using the website were also emphasized in the audit.

Some of the highlights of the new plan include; rebuilding the RDNO website and using social media sites like Facebook to communicate important messages to the public.

Charger rollout

Phased approach planned for EV chargers at Vernon ALC

Apr 24, 2026

Secondary Dwellings

Coldstream considering more housing on agricultural lands

Apr 24, 2026

Wildfire Risks

Okanagan's Fire Danger Rating already up to Moderate

Apr 23, 2026

An RFP for a new website developer is expected to go out some time this year.

The new communications plan also promises to maintain a positive “proactive” relationship with local media outlets by sending out regular press releases on important issues.

A communications role did not exist prior to 2018, and according to the audit, the relationship with the media was often “reactionary,” after an event occurred and there was no formal spokesperson established.

At the board meeting last Wednesday; Electoral Area “D” director Rick Fairbairn expressed confidence in the new communications plan and said it is long overdue.

“I think it identifies some of the areas of concern historically that we have had here and so it is a job well done and I look forward to its implementation,” he said.

by Tiffany Goodwein

View Comments