BC NDP MLAs Anderson and Morissette say funding will help equip the Kootenays for emergencies

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Summary

·        Local communities are receiving a total of $105,927 for emergency operations centres

·        The funding will support equipment and training for staff and volunteers to better respond to emergencies like wildfires

             

NELSON– BC New Democrat MLAs Brittny Anderson and Steve Morissette say the Kootenays will be better prepared for emergencies with provincial funding for emergency operations centres.

“Across the Kootenays, we have dedicated emergency personnel and volunteers that are ready to jump into action when an emergency occurs,” said Brittny Anderson, MLA for Kootenay Central. “Providing local EOCs with equipment and training helps make a difference when it comes to emergency response in communities all over B.C.”

In the Kootenays, the following local governments will receive funding:

  • Central Kootenay Regional District – Communications equipment, furniture and training to support EOC operations, $29,977
  • Creston – IT equipment, communications gear, training and exercise to modernize emergency operations, $30,000
  • Nelson – Training, communications equipment and section supplies to strengthen EOC operations, $30,000
  • Silverton – Training, workstations and emergency supplies to build EOC capacity and resilience, $15,950

The Province is providing approximately $3.5 million for 110 projects to support local emergency operations centres through the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund (CEPF).

Emergency operations centres (EOC) coordinate people, actions and resources, and support first responders on the ground. They also ensure people receive timely information, emergency support services and other vital assistance throughout an emergency.

“People here know just how quickly an emergency can happen, and how crucial it is to be prepared, especially in rural communities.” said Steve Morissette, MLA for Kootenay-Monashee. “I’m glad that the RDCK is getting some funding for radios, training, and equipment to keep everyone safe.”

Through this fund, since 2017, more than $25 million has supported more than 820 projects throughout the province. The Province has committed $369 million through all CEPF streams since it was established in 2017. To date, more than $350 million has been provided to First Nations and local governments for more than 2,800 CEPF projects throughout the province.

Learn More: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2026EMCR0031-000853