The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) is exploring a new location for its office in Creston.
Regional board members have approved $13,000 for a design concept and cost estimate to renovate the upper floor of Rotacrest Hall at 230 19th Ave. N., near the Creston Community Complex.
The RDCK said in a news release that its current Creston office no longer meets the needs of staff and the public. The space has accessibility challenges, limited customer service capacity and insufficient parking.
It also lacks an adequate number of workstations, private offices, meeting rooms, storage, a functioning lunchroom, staff-only washrooms and RDCK branding, which the district said impacts the delivery of service.
Additionally, the RDCK’s hybrid work model has meant some Nelson-based positions have been relocated to Creston due to available amenities and lower housing costs.
While the intent of a new space is not to allow for additional hiring or expanded government services, the RDCK said it is a significant factor in recruiting and retaining key positions.
The RDCK did not say whether other sites were considered, though Rotacrest Hall is already owned by the district, has more than twice the square footage of the current office location and meets the RDCK’s space requirements.
The proposed office would also improve public access and service by adding parking, meeting space and a modern lobby.
The design work is the first step in the process. Once the concept is complete, the board will decide whether to proceed with developing the hall into an office.
Staff will consult user groups and other interested parties as part of the board’s decision-making process.
“As our community grows, so too do the demands on our services,” said Stuart Horn, RDCK chief administrative officer.
“We have outgrown our current office space, which is no longer meeting the needs of the public or our staff. Relocating to a modern, accessible facility will allow us to better serve residents, provide a welcoming environment and ensure our team has the space and amenities they need to deliver exceptional service.”
The Rotacrest Hall is currently used for meeting room rentals and banquets. Groups that use the upper floor will be directly affected, particularly the New Horizon Senior Society.
The RDCK said it believes the needs of those groups can be accommodated in other nearby spaces and that it will work with them to identify options and enable a smooth transition if the hall is developed as office space.
The main floor, which Valley Community Services uses for its Therapeutic Activation Program for Seniors, will remain unchanged.
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