Controversy over how Kelowna’s water supply is managed and delivered is another step closer to a resolve as the five water utilities have agreed on a future plan.
This past spring, the province stepped in to mediate the water utilities’ debate over whether to become one or to focus first on water quality before considering amalgamation.
WATCH BELOW: Province to help sort out Kelowna’s water woes
This summer, the City of Kelowna, the Black Mountain Irrigation District, the Rutland Water Works District, the Glenmore-Ellison Improvement District and the South East Kelowna Irrigation District agreed to work together.
On Monday, it was announced the irrigation districts are closer to establishing a long-term water supply plan for the region.
“All parties have agreed on a statement of principles and terms of reference for a value planning process that will allow for an independent third-party to review all relevant documents and information that would inform the development of a new, integrated water system for the region over time,” Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development, Peter Fassbender said in a statement.
Fassbender said financial help from the the provincial and federal governments might be on the table to help see the plan to its completion.
WATCH BELOW: Kelowna at odds with water utilities on integration talks