Coldstream Applies for Funding to Boost Emergency Preparedness
The District is taking steps to strengthen its readiness for future emergencies. Council authorized Administration to apply for up to $30,000 in grant funding through the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) Community Emergency Preparedness Fund.
The application targets the Emergency Operations Centres (EOC) Equipment and Training stream, which supports local governments in improving their capacity to respond effectively during crises such as wildfires, floods, and other large‑scale emergencies.
If approved, the grant would allow the District to enhance training for Emergency Operations Centre staff and purchase new equipment essential for coordinating response efforts. Council noted that improving EOC capabilities will help ensure Coldstream is better prepared for both small‑scale incidents and major emergencies that may impact the community.
Council Proposes Changes to B.C.’s Farm Property Tax System
Coldstream Council is calling on the Province to modernize B.C.’s farm property tax system by creating new subclasses that distinguish between small-scale farms and large industrial agricultural operations. At its February 9th meeting, Council endorsed a resolution that will be presented at the 2026 Southern Interior Local Government Association (SILGA) Convention.
Currently, all farm uses fall under a single provincial tax category—Class 9—regardless of size or impact. Council notes that large industrial farms place significantly greater demands on municipal infrastructure and services, yet are taxed at the same rate as low‑impact family farms.
The resolution asks the Minister of Finance to introduce additional subclasses within Class 9, allowing municipalities to apply more equitable taxation based on the nature and intensity of agricultural activity.
If endorsed at SILGA, the resolution will proceed to the Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM) for provincial consideration.