Letter to the Editor

Dear Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Chair and Board members:

I am writing to address the board’s recent decision to align our region with Pacific Time.

I believe the board has overlooked the principles of good governance by making a rushed decision without fully considering the significant consequences for constituents.

Despite RDEK staff suggesting that the eight-month lead time before the next clock change allows ample time for public and stakeholder consultation—including chambers of commerce, tourism boards, and municipalities—this recommendation was rejected.

The narrow margin of the board’s vote underscores that this is a contentious issue with far-reaching impacts on our diverse communities. At a minimum, the board should commission a statistically valid public survey and carefully evaluate the potential outcomes of such a change.

With eight months remaining before we “fall back” for the final time, it is not too late for the board to reconsider its position and listen to its constituents. While your recent press release noted that any decision will result in some dissatisfaction, residents and businesses deserve the opportunity to provide input on a decision of this magnitude.

I urge the board to pause and engage in a more thoughtful, consultative process before moving forward.

Brett Watson,

Cranbrook

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