Residents of East Kootenay no longer need to worry about adjusting their clocks twice a year as the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) board has voted 12-3 to adopt mountain daylight time permanently. This decision aligns the region with Alberta’s time system rather than following the majority of British Columbia.
The debate over the region’s time observance began in March when the RDEK board initially voted for year-round mountain standard time, which would have synchronized the area with most of B.C. However, following public opposition and requests for further consultation, this decision was reversed.
In response to the community’s input, a regional survey was conducted, receiving over 14,000 responses. The survey indicated that 89% of participants favored eliminating seasonal clock changes and sticking to a consistent time all year, with 66% preferring permanent mountain daylight time.
RDEK board chair Rob Gay emphasized that the survey played a significant role in the decision-making process. He noted that the region’s strong ties to Alberta, particularly in areas like the Elk Valley and Crowsnest Pass, alongside considerations for health, business operations, public safety, and school schedules, influenced the final choice.
Gay highlighted that many residents expressed a desire for more daylight in the evenings to engage in outdoor activities after work and school. Despite differing opinions within the community, the consensus was clear: residents are ready to bid farewell to changing their clocks.
Looking ahead, when November arrives, East Kootenay residents will maintain their current time settings instead of turning their clocks back. The RDEK plans to inform neighboring local governments in Golden and Columbia Shuswap Regional District Electoral Area A about their decision, as these areas still need to determine their time observance practices.
Although not everyone may agree with the outcome, the board and the community took the time issue seriously. As East Kootenay prepares for the upcoming season, adjusting clocks will no longer be a part of their fall routine.