Oliver Parks and Recreation Governance

For Immediate Release

January 20, 2023



Oliver Parks & Recreation Services to transition back to Town of Oliver



Governance discussions have been ongoing between the Town of Oliver and the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) regarding governance of Oliver Parks & Recreation services. The parties agree to transition the operation of Oliver Parks & Recreation programs, services and facility management to the Town of Oliver effective December 31, 2023. This transition will result in dissolving the Oliver Parks & Recreation Society who have managed the operations for the Town and RDOS since 2005.



It is common practice for parks and recreation services to be managed in house as a municipal department. The Town and RDOS feel the transition will result in improved integration of services that will better serve residents of Oliver, Osoyoos Indian Band and rural Oliver (Area C).



Oliver Parks & Recreation users will see no change day-to-day in accessing programs or services. The Town and RDOS assets will benefit from enhanced long-term asset management planning to ensure the longevity of the pool, arena and park amenities.



A joint Recreation Advisory Committee will be formed to guide and make recommendations to both Oliver Council and the RDOS Area ā€œCā€ Director. There will be no change to the complement of Parks and Recreation employees who will form part of the Town of Oliver team.



Inquiries:

Ed Chow, Chief Administrative Officer

250 485 6200