The subject of a passionate and current local issue involving the City of Castlegar and the rural district of Ootischenia, has played out on countless occasions over the years. Heated reactions, it seems, are just likely to show up whenever someone tries to redraw a boundary. People get used to borders being where they are, and when there’s a change that isn’t their idea, feathers tend to get ruffled in a big way.
The current, local bone of contention involves the City fathers and staff doing exactly what they were elected and hired to do - which is what they believe to be best for the residents and the future of Castlegar.
But the land coveted by the City (though owned by a provincial government Ministry) happens to be situated in Oostishenia – a place where what they’re not, (Castlegar residents)can be as notable as what they are. The same situation can likely be found in every city and region, just about everywhere. Neighbourly rivalries are as common as neighbourhoods. A phrase based on a piece of dialogue from a 70’s tear-jerking movie, stated that ‘Living in White Rock means never having to say you’re Surrey.” With a good sense of humour a lot of fun can be had with this kind of issue, but naturally there’s a definite serious side to it as well. People in both communities care deeply about what lies ahead for a 25-hectare property along the river.
At the present time there is not any deal on the table in terms of municipal expansion, as a matter of fact, there’s no table... either.
But we’re sure to hear more about this issue as the months go by and, with any luck, negotiations will be conducted with customary diplomacy.