INFORMATION RELEASE

The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) is providing an update to residents connected to the Olalla Water System regarding current water quality measures and ongoing infrastructure improvements. 

Current water quality status
A Water Quality Advisory (WQA) remains in place for the Olalla Water System as a precautionary measure. Temporary chlorination is also currently active. With these measures in place, the water meets Interior Health Authority (IHA) requirements for general consumption. As with any WQA, additional care is recommended for seniors (65+), young children, and those with a weakened immune system. Visit the IHA website for more information. 

The advisory in effect is a Water Quality Advisory, NOT a Boil Water Notice.

The RDOS team has made progress on projects aimed at improving water quality:

• Reservoir relining, which is now complete
• Universal metering installation is anticipated to be complete by the end of 2026 or early 2027

These projects are part of a broader effort by RDOS operations and environmental teams to address system performance and maintain long-term water quality.

Installation of water meters is fully funded by a grant from the Ministry of Housing and Municipal Affairs as part of the Universal Metering System Pilot Project. Crews will communicate with property owners to ensure restoration work is completed following installation of water meters.

Next steps
Once installation of the water meters is complete, a water quality assessment will be conducted. The results of this assessment will be reviewed in consultation with Interior Health to determine whether the temporary chlorination and Water Quality Advisory can be removed. Updates will be provided to residents as additional information becomes available. 

Utility billing update
Residents are reminded that water utility rates have been adjusted for 2026. The 2026 water rate reflects an increase of $58.77 per year per connection, which is just under an eight percent (8%) increase. Water rates within the RDOS-operated systems range from $739 to $2,031 per annum, with Olalla representing the lowest cost per household. Water and curbside services are billed together on quarterly utility bills. 

This rate adjustment applies to the 2026 billing year only and is reviewed annually as part of the RDOS budget process.

Mock Billing
To provide residents with an adjustment period before the program begins, a 12-month mock billing period will be implemented following final installation of the water meters by the end of 2026 or early 2027. 

Mock billing helps residents understand what their rates would be under the new system.

For further information, please contact RDOS Communications.

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Mark Pendergraft, Chair
Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen

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

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