Residents of East Kootenay in British Columbia can mark one task off their autumn checklist: adjusting the clocks. The East Kootenay Regional District board made a decisive 12-3 vote on Friday to cease the practice of changing clocks twice a year and opt for permanent mountain daylight time. This resolution aligns the region with Alberta’s time zone instead of synchronizing with the majority of British Columbia.
This choice comes after a period of deliberation following the provincial announcement that most of British Columbia would discontinue seasonal clock changes, leaving mountain time communities to determine their timekeeping practices independently. Initially, in March, the RDEK board had decided to transition affected areas to year-round mountain standard time, aligning them with the rest of British Columbia. However, this decision was reversed due to public resistance and calls for additional consultation.
In response to the debate, the region conducted a non-binding regional survey, receiving over 14,000 responses. The survey indicated that 89% of participants favored abandoning biannual clock changes and adopting a consistent time throughout the year, with 66% preferring permanent mountain daylight time. While the survey was a significant factor in the board’s decision-making process, other considerations such as resident preferences, ties to Alberta, health implications, business operations, public safety, and school schedules were also taken into account.
East Kootenay residents, known for their outdoor lifestyle, expressed a desire for more daylight in the evenings to engage in recreational activities after work and school. The decision to stick to a single time zone year-round reflects the community’s weariness of adjusting clocks and the desire for consistency. Although opinions may vary, the board’s resolution means that come November, residents will not have to set their clocks back, simplifying their seasonal routines.
The RDEK plans to inform neighboring local governments in Golden and Columbia Shuswap Regional District Electoral Area A about their decision, as these regions still need to finalize their time observance practices. While some individuals may not fully agree with the outcome, the board emphasizes the seriousness with which the decision was made. Ultimately, the adjustment will bring a sense of continuity to East Kootenay residents, who can now focus on autumn tasks like yard work and preparing for colder weather without the added chore of changing clocks.