A discussion about whether RV camping should be allowed at Creston and District Community Complex came to no resolution at the July 8 meeting of the Regional District of Central Kootenay’s Creston Valley services committee.
The issue arose from concerns expressed recently at the Creston town council level, with Coun. Jerry Schmalz arguing that the practice takes away business from local campground operators.
A report by the community complex’s recreation supervisor, Neil Ostafichuk, described the practice of families camping while a summer swim meet takes place as having “at least” a 25-year history. When the outdoor pool was the venue, he said, on-site camping was traditionally allowed because of “concerns with security of the timers and other meet equipment in and around the pool.”
The practice continues despite the security concerns disappearing with the construction of an indoor aquatic facility. No other groups continue to request permission to camp during an event. Ostafichuk said that the Good Sam Club and square dance conventions camped out in the past, but not for the last 10 years.
A survey of other facilities in the region showed mixed policies. Nelson and Trail do not allow on-site camping, while Castlegar, Kimberley, Grand Forks and Colville, Wash., do, with varying restrictions.
Out of safety and security considerations, facility manager Randy Fediuk said, RV camping for the event could be moved to the rear of the community complex.
Area A director Garry Jackman recommended that staff poll local campground operators to determine whether they typically have sufficient room to accommodate the number of campers that have been staying at the community complex in recent years.
No recommendation was made about whether the practice should be allowed to continue.
Committee Briefs
•Fediuk reported that discussions are underway with the Creston Valley Thunder Cats about who will get the revenue if advertising wraps are installed on the newly acquired Zamboni. Under the existing agreement, all advertising in the arena area benefits the Junior B hockey team.
•RCMP Staff Sgt. Bob Gollan presented his annual policing report.
•Fediuk reported on the status of an electronic media sign being considered for installation at a property on Canyon Street at 19th Avenue.
•Alanna Garrett, emergency co-ordinator for the area, updated the committee on recent activities, which included a mountain rescue. Potential flood risk is being monitored, she said, as is the growing forest fire hazard with the sudden increase in temperatures.