INFORMATION RELEASE 

The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) is reaffirming its commitment to protecting the community and ensuring the continued delivery of safe, reliable, and professional fire protection services in Naramata (Electoral Area “E”).

As previously committed, the RDOS engaged an independent and neutral third party to review the decision regarding the former fire chief of the Naramata Volunteer Fire Department. Before the review, the Naramata Volunteer Fire Department leadership group and RDOS senior management agreed that an independent review would provide an objective assessment and that the findings would be respected regardless of the outcome.

The review is complete, and the reviewer concluded that the decision was appropriate and supported by the circumstances considered. The RDOS respects the right of individuals to express their views and recognizes the value of constructive communication and engagement.

The RDOS values the dedication and commitment of all fire department personnel and remains committed to working constructively and respectfully to maintain the high standard of service that residents expect and deserve.

To help residents better understand how fire protection services are delivered, the RDOS will host an online public information session on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, from 6:30 to 7:30 pm. The session will provide an overview of RDOS fire protection services, including emergency preparedness, response operations, governance, and roles and responsibilities.

The RDOS recognizes that residents have questions about independent reviews concerning fire departments in Kaleden and Naramata and believes it is important to address them openly and transparently. While there may be limitations on discussing specific employment-related details, the session will provide an overview of the review processes and the governance framework that supports fire service delivery.

By addressing these topics directly, the RDOS hopes to provide clarity, answer questions where possible, and continue building trust with the community through open and respectful dialogue.

The session will also provide an overview of provincial training opportunities for community volunteers who are interested in supporting firefighting efforts in rural communities, such as Faulder and Meadow Valley.

Join the information session by visiting: rdos.webex.com

Webinar password: RD@S (7317 from phones)
Join the audio conference only via telephone: 1-833-311-4101 Canada toll-free
Questions can be submitted during the information session using the Webex chat function.

Watch the information session on the RDOS YouTube channel.

A recording of the information session will be available on the RDOS YouTube channel for those unable to attend. 

For further information, please contact RDOS Communications.

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Contact:

RDOS Communications
250-490-4148
Toll-free 1-877-610-3737

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