New printer at the information centre
There is a new printer at the information centre for public use. Anyone can use it for black and white, or colour printing, but nothing bigger than legal size can be printed. Prices are being reworked while the information centre compares all the costs.
New signs at the quarter mile and south lookout
New signs are being put up at the quarter mile and south lookouts toward Nakusp. With the new signs, photos can be replaced, and the look changed around. The entire sign doesn't have to be replaced at once. There is still a 4x4 space open at both locations. Invest Kootenay and Work West Kootenay have amalgamated, and their name changed to Imagine Kootenay. Their new logo will be coming out in about a month, and their sign will be placed in the 4x4 space.
Funding changes to destination BC
If communities want more funding for projects, they have to work together, according to Destination BC. The more communities that work together, the higher the funding will be. With a consortium, three or more communities, the minimum funding to apply for is going up to $250,000, but funds need to be matched. A single community can only get $7,500, whereas two communities working together have a limit of $15,000.
Last phase for the West Koot Route finalized
The last phase of the West Koot Route highway has been finalized. With the current phase done, the new website is up, there are also brochures, and the group is now on Facebook and Twitter. They're working on getting a business, marketing, and financial plan for the next phase. The goal is to hire a marketing team to look after the West Koot Route and promote the brand. They also want to get businesses involved, as well as getting a digital and printed visitor guide. The group is working toward a three-year plan to become self-sustainable.
Celebration of Light
The first committee meeting for the annual Celebration of Light event was held two weeks ago. Vendors have decided to stay open once again for Merchant Madness. New this year is an ugly sweater contest, with prizes to be given out. There will not be a house decorating contest, as the focus is to be kept on the downtown area. The Celebration of Light will be on Dec. 4, starting around 5 p.m., with the parade starting at 6 p.m.
Kootenay Compass
A new online map has been created fir residents and visitors. Kootenay Compass is an online and interactive map. It is a web app, not a mobile app. West Kootenay is outlined, and there are eight main categories, along with 70 sub categories. Businesses are able to pin their exact location, and the app has a "know your location" to figure out where you are. It is useful for for things like trails, and ferry routes, and also has links to government sites for ferry routes. If a business wants to put their information on the app, it only takes about a day and a half for it to be added. If a business is advertised on either the West Kootenay, Castlegar, or Nelson map, it will be advertised on the web app as well. Kootenay Compass continues to build its online map, and plans on making a kid zone, so children are able to use the app as well.