Mayor's Musings for March 2026
by Steve Fairbairn, Mayor for the District of Elkford
There’s no shortage of topics to cover this month, so let's dive in!
TIME CHANGE AND REGIONAL ALIGNMENT
The lead story this month? Time.
As of March 8, 2026, British Columbia has announced its intention to move to year-round daylight-saving time, effectively remaining on daylight time year-round. Yukon made a similar change in 2020. Spring ahead, with no falling back!
What does that mean for us? For now, not much. The potential impacts would be more noticeable in the fall and winter months, particularly for communities in the Kootenays that observe Mountain Time and shift seasonally.
The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) has acknowledged that any changes to time observance in this region should be considered at a regional level. If adjustments are contemplated, it makes sense that communities and rural areas across the region are aligned and informed. The RDEK is expected to have staff review the matter and report back to the board in the coming months.
A regional approach would help ensure consistency across municipalities and rural areas. There is still a fair bit to consider before any changes would be implemented locally. We’ll let that one play out and see where it lands.
Either way, we will remain on Mountain Time, consistent with Alberta, although there may be some adjustment required during part of the year. I’m calling that “clock shock.” We’ll see if it sticks.
HEALTH CARE ACCESS
The more immediate local news this month is the anticipated end of Alberta’s health-care restrictions affecting Elkford residents.
This follows a long period of discussion and coordination between the two provinces. Over several years, elected officials across the region have consistently raised this issue, particularly the challenges associated with travelling to Kelowna or Vancouver for care. It has remained a standing item in meetings, conversations and reminders, and it appears that work may now be nearing a positive outcome. It’s been a long road, but progress is progress.
REGIONAL WILDLIFE UPDATE
In other regional news, none of the deer culled in Cranbrook in January tested positive for chronic wasting disease. That’s good news!
Continued vigilance is important, though. Experience elsewhere has shown that once the disease enters urban deer populations, it can become widespread. Prevention remains key, and this is one we all want to stay ahead of.
THE SEASONAL TRANSITION
It’s always a bit risky to comment on spring weather and the end of winter. In like a lamb and all of that.
The ski hill has now wrapped up for the season, which likely means we’ll get one or two (or five) more good snowfalls just to keep things interesting. That’s usually how it goes.
Here’s hoping the roads and highways stay dry and safe from here on out.
Either way, spring is starting to push its way in, whether winter is ready to let go or not. A bit more daylight and sunshine go a long way this time of year, and I think most of us are ready for it.
BUDGET AND SPRING OPERATIONS
Tax season has once again reached its consolidation phase. Staff have worked hard to contain costs. As a result, there are fewer projects than in some past years, extended replacement cycles for certain mobile assets, and careful consideration of the long-term implications of decisions being made today.
While it may seem like a quieter time of year, things are picking up behind the scenes. Planning for summer is well underway. The campground is accepting bookings, rates have been updated, ice has come out of the arena and planning for parks and trails continues.
Street sweeping will begin once the risk of additional snowfall requiring plowing and sanding has passed, as it does each year. As residents begin spring cleanup, please avoid placing grass clippings in the gutter along with gravel. Grass can clog the street sweeper’s vacuum and dust collection system, reducing efficiency and increasing maintenance. Clippings can be taken to the designated grass collection bins.
A little extra effort there saves a lot of time on the back end and helps keep things running smoothly for everyone.
CELEBRATING VOLUNTEERS IN ELKFORD
Elkford has always been a community built on people who step up, pitch in and make things happen.
On Saturday, April 25, the District will host its annual Volunteer Appreciation Event at the Community Conference Centre from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. It’s an opportunity to recognize the many individuals and families who give their time and energy to support programs, events and services across the community.
Volunteerism is one of the things that sets Elkford apart. Whether it’s coaching, organizing events, supporting local initiatives or simply lending a hand to a neighbour when it’s needed, our nonprofit organizations and volunteer groups are at the heart and soul of Elkford. Quite simply, a lot of what we enjoy here doesn’t happen without them.
This event is a small way of saying thank you, and a chance to come together, celebrate and recognize the people who quietly make a big difference.
If you are a volunteer, I hope you’ll come out and join in! Please RSVP by Saturday, April 18 at 4:30 p.m. by calling 250.865.4010, emailing events@elkford.ca or stopping by the Community Conference Centre at 750 Fording Drive.
And if you know someone who consistently gives their time to others, take a moment to thank them. It matters more than you might think!
A QUICK NOTE ON FIRE RESCUE
Our paid-on-call firefighters are also part of that volunteer spirit.
Elkford Fire Rescue is currently recruiting paid-on-call firefighters, and this is a great opportunity for anyone interested in serving the community in a hands-on way. Drop-in information nights will be held on Wednesday, April 1 and April 29 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Elkford Fire Hall, 2300 Balmer Drive.
These are relaxed, no-pressure evenings where you can meet the firefighters, see real live-fire demonstrations and learn about what the fire department does. No experience is required, you just show up!
If it’s something you’ve ever thought about, this is a good time to take a closer look. You might surprise yourself!
WINTER RECAP
Before we fully turn the page on winter, it’s worth recognizing another strong season in Elkford.
Winter in the Wild, Fernie Freestyle night at the ski hill, and local snowmobile racing events all contributed to an active and well-attended winter. These events take a lot of coordination and effort, and they continue to reflect the energy and pride people have in this community.
Now we get to see what spring has in store. If winter is any indication, it should be a good one!
Until next time, stay safe and stay awesome!
Mayor Steve
