A matter that raised ire at the January board meeting of the Columbia Shuswap Regional District, passed with only a couple of jabs last week.
CSRD directors agreed unanimously to ante up $100,000 from the Area D Falkland-Salmon Valley-Ranchero community works funds to replace the Syme Bridge.
“We will, however, require an agreement with the City of Salmon Arm that transfers al of CSRD’s obligations on ownership and reporting to the city,” wrote financial services manager Jodi Kooistra in her report to the board.
Owned by Salmon Arm and within city boundaries, the bridge serves some Area D residents.
Last month, Area D director Rene Talbot complained bitterly that he had been asked for funding without being apprised of plans or total costs for the bridge replacement.
He agreed to handing over $100,000, but not without voicing another complaint:
“I believe we all need to work together and this is part of working together. Electoral area directors have spent a lot of money over the years for projects the municipalities have benefitted from,” he said. “I have residents that cross that bridge so I am happy to pay, but I am hoping municipalities will work together with the electoral areas.”