INFORMATION RELEASE

The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) is hosting an online public information session to share details on regional fire service coordination and ongoing operations. The online format enables residents and property owners from across the region to participate and access information, including those outside the area.

The RDOS Chief Administrative Officer, Manager of Protective Services, and Manager of Regional Fire Services will be in attendance, along with members of the RDOS Board of Directors.

Information session
Date: Wednesday, August 19, 2026
Time: 6:30 to 8:00 pm

Join the presentation 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

Or watch the information session on the RDOS YouTube channel.

Send questions through the Webex chat function during the session.

Send questions via email to communications@rdos.bc.ca.

If you do not have access to email, questions can be submitted in advance by calling RDOS Communications at 250-490-4148.

“Fire protection personnel are a vital part of the RDOS Protective Services Department and play an essential role in safeguarding communities,” said RDOS Chair Mark Pendergraft. “The safety of residents, property owners, visitors, and emergency responders remains our highest priority, and the dedicated personnel who serve our communities have the full support of the organization.”

Latest updates

The RDOS is confirming that the administrative leave of the Kaleden Volunteer Fire Department Fire Chief concluded on Monday, July 27, 2026. RDOS senior leadership remain committed to meeting with fire department personnel across the region to discuss fire service operations and support ongoing collaboration.

Regional coordination

Local governments are responsible for ensuring fire services operate in compliance with an evolving legislative, regulatory, and standards-based environment. To help meet these requirements, the RDOS established the Board-endorsed position of Manager of Regional Fire Services to support fire chiefs, not replace them.

The Manager of Regional Fire Services provides regional coordination, administrative support and assistance to help fire departments address increasing responsibilities related to training, emergency preparedness, risk management, regulatory compliance, and service delivery.

This approach reflects a model widely used by regional districts and local governments across British Columbia. It strengthens consistency, collaboration, and regional coordination while fully respecting the leadership and operational authority of local fire chiefs.

The RDOS recognizes that residents have questions regarding recent staffing decisions and organizational changes affecting local fire services. The Regional District is committed to being transparent; however, it also has legal, privacy, and confidentiality obligations. As a result, personnel matters cannot be discussed publicly.

Residents, property owners, and members of the media are encouraged to follow official RDOS communication channels for the latest information regarding fire protection services.

For further information, please contact RDOS Communications.

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Mark Pendergraft, RDOS Chair
Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen 

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

Board Correspondence: info@rdos.bc.ca | 101 Martin Street, Penticton, BC, V2A 5J9

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