Okanagan residents will now find it even easier to access government services with the official opening of a brand-new FrontCounter BC office in Vernon.

FrontCounter BC is a single-window service for clients of the natural resource sector. FrontCounter BC was created in 2005 with eight locations, a dedicated call centre and online applications.

FrontCounter BC is expanding to more locations across B.C. Today's opening in Vernon marks the 11th new location this year and is a key part of the Province's integrated approach to the natural resource sector. FrontCounter BC is also an example of how the Province is streamlining processes to support resource development.

The Vernon FrountCounter BC office is located at 2501 - 14th Ave.

Quotes:

Mayor Wayne Lippert, City of Vernon -

"I'm so pleased the Province is expanding the FrontCounter BC program to Vernon. By bringing more government services to our families, the Province is supporting economic growth in our communities."

Quick Facts:

• FrontCounter BC offers more than 130 natural resource-related permits and authorizations at each location.
• FrontCounter BC provides services on behalf of 16 additional partner agencies.
• Since Jan. 1, 2005, over 38,000 authorizations have been processed.
• The FrontCounter BC call centre handles more than 21,400 inquiries annually.

Watch this short video on FrontCounter BC: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VjFrUY7zbQU

Find a FrontCounter near you: http://www.frontcounterbc.gov.bc.ca/contact/locations.html

Learn More:

FrontCounter BC: http://www.frontcounterbc.gov.bc.ca/

Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations: http://www.gov.bc.ca/for/index.html

Media Contact:

Cheekwan Ho
Media Relations
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
250 356-5261

Connect with the Province of B.C. at: www.gov.bc.ca/connect