Peter Fassbender, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development released the following statement regarding Kelowna water service:

“Yesterday I met with the City of Kelowna, the Black Mountain Irrigation District, the Rutland Water Works District, the Glenmore-Ellison Improvement District and the South East Kelowna Irrigation District. They have found common ground – a turning point in their discussions. An agreement has been reached to draft common principles and terms of reference for a Value Planning process. All previous and existing materials and plans will be used to inform this process.

“This agreement is the result of a very positive meeting between the Province and the parties, as well as facilitators Chris Trumpy and George Abbott.

“The parties agreed to work proactively as they take next steps to ensure a robust, resilient and sustainable system that delivers high quality water for all citizens’ needs.

“There will be further details that require work between all parties, but we are clear about one thing – it is time to move forward.

I commend everyone at the meeting for their leadership and commitment.”