Following a recent survey, the City of Cranbrook will be advised that the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) will not proceed with a referendum to consider an Electoral Area C Recreation and Culture Contribution Service.

“The survey results were clear that the majority of respondents – roughly 70% – do not support establishing a dedicated service to contribute to the city’s recreation and culture services, so we will not be moving forward with a service establishment process,” said Electoral Area C Director Rob Gay.

In 2024, the city undertook a Recreation and Culture Review that examined fees and charges, organizational structure and staffing, and other opportunities to enhance service delivery and long-term sustainability. One of the options identified was a contribution from the RDEK in recognition of the city amenities and services that Area C residents participate in.

In 2025, after meetings between the RDEK and the City of Cranbrook, the city formally asked the RDEK to consider an annual contribution. For the RDEK to provide funding, a service area would need to be established—an involved and detailed process requiring elector assent.

Before starting that process, Area C Director Gay wanted to first seek public input to understand whether Area C residents support the RDEK exploring the establishment of a service.

That input was sought through a non-binding survey. Two surveys were conducted from January 12 to February 9, 2026: an open online survey and a direct-mail survey sent to a random sample of 1,500 Electoral Area C property owners.

The RDEK received 606 online and 383 mail responses. Overall, 29% (online) and 32% (mail) supported establishing a new service to provide an annual contribution toward the City of Cranbrook’s recreation and culture services.

Forty per cent (online) and 48% (mail) reported they never use these city services or facilities.

“I want to thank everyone who took the time to participate in the survey. It was helpful in our decision making and to be able to provide that feedback to the city,” explained Gay.

Though a service establishment process won’t move forward, Gay says he is still willing to work with interested residents to determine whether they may be other creative solutions to explore.

“Thirty per cent of respondents did say they were willing to contribute and indicated they would be willing to contribute on the higher end of the scale. If there are Area C community champions out there who use the city’s facilities and services and would like to get together to look at how we might support a contribution in some way, I’d love to hear from you.”

Learn more about the Area C Recreation & Culture Contribution Service Survey or view the results.

e-KNOW file photo

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