Residents of East Kootenay can now mark changing the clocks off their autumn checklist. The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) board has voted 12-3 to discontinue the biannual clock adjustments and adopt mountain daylight time permanently. This decision aligns the region with Alberta’s time system, diverging from the majority of British Columbia.
The board’s resolution concludes a prolonged debate on the preferred time zone for East Kootenay following the provincial announcement that most of B.C. would cease daylight saving time changes, leaving mountain time communities to determine their time observance independently.
Initially, in March, the RDEK board had endorsed transitioning affected areas to year-round mountain standard time, aligning them with the rest of B.C. However, this decision was revoked following public opposition and calls for increased consultation.
A regional survey was conducted, garnering over 14,000 responses. The survey revealed that 89% of participants favored discontinuing biannual clock changes and sticking to a consistent time throughout the year, with 66% expressing a preference for permanent mountain daylight time.
Rob Gay, the RDEK board chair, emphasized that while the survey was influential, it was not the sole factor in the board’s decision-making process. The survey highlighted the community’s desire for more daylight in the evenings, especially for outdoor activities post-work and school hours.
Many East Kootenay residents and businesses have strong ties to Alberta, particularly in regions like the Elk Valley and Crowsnest Pass. Health considerations, business operations, public safety, and school schedules were also taken into account before the final decision was made.
As November approaches, East Kootenay residents will no longer need to adjust their clocks. The RDEK will communicate its choice with neighboring local governments in Golden and Columbia Shuswap Regional District Electoral Area A, which are yet to determine their time observance.
While the decision may not satisfy all residents, the move reflects the community’s desire to end clock adjustments, allowing them to enjoy more daylight in the evenings for recreational activities.