East Kootenay residents in British Columbia can now mark one task off their autumn checklist: adjusting their clocks. The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) board made a decisive 12-3 vote on Friday to end biannual clock changes and adopt mountain daylight time permanently. This choice aligns the region with Alberta time instead of synchronizing with the majority of British Columbia.
This resolution settles extensive deliberations on the time standard to be followed in East Kootenay following the announcement by the province that most of B.C. would cease seasonal clock adjustments, leaving mountain time communities to determine their time preference independently.
Initially, the RDEK board decided in March to transition affected areas to year-round mountain standard time, aligning them with the rest of British Columbia. However, following public opposition and requests for more community input, this decision was later retracted.
A regional survey was conducted, receiving over 14,000 responses, with 89% of participants expressing a desire to stop clock changes and 66% favoring permanent mountain daylight time. According to RDEK board chair Rob Gay, while the survey influenced the decision, various factors were considered, including ties to Alberta, health considerations, business schedules, public safety, and school schedules.
Residents in East Kootenay, particularly in areas like the Elk Valley and Crowsnest Pass, have strong connections to Alberta, influencing the board’s choice. The survey also highlighted the community’s preference for more daylight later in the day, catering to outdoor activities popular in the region.
Looking ahead, when the clocks would typically fall back in November, East Kootenay residents will maintain their current time. 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.
While the resolution may not satisfy all residents, the board and community members recognize the significance of the decision. Come November, East Kootenay locals may prepare for autumn tasks like leaf raking and winter preparations, but adjusting clocks will no longer be part of their seasonal routine.