East Kootenay residents have made a decision to eliminate the biannual clock changes from their routine. The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) board voted 12-3 on Friday to adopt mountain daylight time permanently, aligning the region with Alberta’s time system rather than following the majority of British Columbia. This resolution comes after a period of discussion regarding the appropriate time standard for the East Kootenay following the provincial announcement that most of B.C. would discontinue seasonal time adjustments, leaving mountain time communities to determine their own time observance.
In an initial move in March, the RDEK board had decided to transition affected areas to year-round mountain standard time, which would have synchronized the region’s clock with that of most of B.C. However, this decision was later reversed due to public opposition and calls for increased consultation.
A non-binding regional survey was launched by the region, garnering over 14,000 responses. The results indicated that 89% of participants favored ceasing the biannual clock changes and remaining on a consistent time schedule throughout the year, with 66% preferring permanent mountain daylight time. RDEK board chair Rob Gay emphasized that while the survey was influential, it was not the sole factor in the board’s decision-making process.
Gay highlighted the strong connections between East Kootenay residents and businesses with Alberta, particularly in regions like the Elk Valley and Crowsnest Pass. Factors such as health, business operations, public safety, and school schedules were also taken into account before the final decision was made. The survey results revealed a desire among residents for more daylight during the later part of the day, as many in the East Kootenay engage in outdoor activities post-work and school hours.
Moving forward, when November arrives, residents in the RDEK will not need to adjust their clocks as they would have traditionally. 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 own time observance practices.
While the decision may not satisfy all residents, Gay acknowledged the seriousness with which the community and the board approached the matter. As the fall season progresses, East Kootenay residents can focus on tasks like raking leaves and preparing for winter without the added chore of changing their clocks.
