West Kelowna council officially opposes overhead BC Hydro transmission lines

West Kelowna city council has formally opposed BC Hydro's plan to install overhead transmission lines, advocating instead for an underground alternative. The council's unanimous vote signals a strong stance against the proposed infrastructure, which residents and businesses fear could negatively impact the community.

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We’ve been advocating really since we incorporated in 2007 for redundant power. It’s extremely important. But we do not want overhead lines.

Mayor Gord Milsom emphasized the long-standing need for redundant power in West Kelowna since its incorporation in 2007 but stressed the community's rejection of overhead lines. Concerns have been amplified by the potential height of transmission towers, reaching up to 100 feet, and their proposed routes through residential areas.

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There are helicopter operations that are saying if that happens then that impacts our aerodrome, we can no longer function.

Local helicopter operators have voiced significant concerns, with some stating that overhead lines could interfere with aerodrome operations. These worries gained prominence following a recent wildfire, where helicopter companies played a crucial role in firefighting efforts, underscoring the critical nature of their operations and the potential disruption.

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From our point of view, these transmission lines, if they’re above ground…the concern is that we’re going to have these lines within our community for generations to come.

Residents, like Justin Pasutto, are applauding the council's decision, seeing it as a response to community feedback and a commitment to preserving the "Okanagan lifestyle." The council intends to send a letter to BC Hydro and the BC Utilities Commission, urging the adoption of the more expensive but less intrusive underground option.

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It’s not the Okanagan lifestyle or way of life by having these 100-foot lines running through our community.