Students in the Okanagan-Similkameen School District will benefit from over $1.3 million in provincial funding for school upgrade projects and classroom supplies, MLA Linda Larson announced on behalf of Education Minister Mike Bernier.

The B.C. government has committed $5 million to reroute the Town of Oliver’s agricultural irrigation system so the region’s fruit, vegetable and crop economy has the stability to grow.

The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen is receiving a joint federal-provincial Small Communities Fund grant worth $6,606,224.

Building on the economic benefits and jobs created by getting to yes on major projects and provincial investments in infrastructure, Boundary-Similkameen MLA Linda Larson announced immediate investments and a long-term action plan outlined in B.C.’s rural economic development strategy that will create jobs and economic opportunities in Boundary-Similkameen.

The on-time, on-budget completion of the new $200-million Okanagan Correctional Centre (OCC) puts a lock on more options to safely house inmates throughout British Columbia – and adds 300 jobs in the South Okanagan for correctional officers and support staff.

Boundary-Similkameen MLA Linda Larson, on behalf of Suzanne Anton, Attorney General and Minister of Justice, announced three new deputy sheriffs will be assigned to the Sheriff’s Office located at the Okanagan Correction Centre, and will assist in nearby courthouses until that time.

Under the BC Rural Dividend, the Province is providing $313,180 in grants to five communities in Boundary-Similkameen, MLA Linda Larson announced.

Later this month is your chance to take a stroll through B.C.’s new correctional centre just north of Oliver.

The South Okanagan is brimming with local flavours from a variety of companies, including the Howling Moon Cider House in Oliver and Bordertown Vineyards and Estate Winery in Osoyoos.

With less than three months until builders hand over the keys to British Columbia’s newest correctional centre, hiring is on track, with approximately 190 positions filled – from correctional officer and administrative support roles to the warden’s chair.