The RDCO is looking at spending $8.4M for a new COSAR headquarters

Photo: COSAR

UPDATE 9:30 a.m.

A new home for Central Okanagan Search and Rescue is not imminent according to officials with the regional district.

In an email to Castanet News, RDCO officials say a search is ongoing for a new facility, and funds were included within the capital plan so they can move forward if that opportunity arises.

"The first year is an estimated amount to cover planning and engineering costs," the email stated.

"Onward are placeholders to cover construction costs. As the project moves forward, estimates would be refined."

ORIGINAL STORY 4 a.m.

It looks as if Central Okanagan Search and Rescue could finally have a new place to call home.

The Regional District of Central Okanagan has earmarked $8.4 million for a new COSAR building within its new five-year capital plan.

The line item shows $400,000 to be spent as part of the 2023 budget, $6 million in 2024 and another $2 million in 2025.

There are no specifics as to where a new building may be constructed, the timeline or particular funding sources.

COSAR has been lobbying for nearly two years for a new building to replace the old, antiquated building it currently uses on Old Vernon Road near Kelowna International Airport.

During a presentation before the regional board in September of 2021, COSAR officials went over a long list of issues including no drinking water, a washroom converted to file storage, inadequate parking and a poor location.

COSAR is the oldest search and rescue organization in the province, tracing its roots back to 1954.

The regional board will take its first look at the 2023 budget on Thursday morning.