WHEREAS many communities across British Columbia provide for or help fund many different types of recreational facilities both indoor and outdoor; AND WHEREAS the provision of a variety of recreational facilities adds a very important element to any small rural community by enhancing the physical and mental health of the citizens, while attracting and retaining a diverse population that helps to maintain a vibrant economy; AND WHEREAS small communities in BC struggle with limited funds available for the provision of ice arenas, swimming pools and curling rinks to name a few; AND WHEREAS costs associated with electricity to heat, light and run the necessary equipment for recreational facilities are ever increasing, seriously limiting the funding resources of small and rural communities to continue to provide for the important recreational facilities that keep the communities strong: Therefore be it resolved that the provincial government be asked to require that BC Hydro and FortisBC electricity provide lower electricity service rates for recreational facilities in small rural communities under 20,000 population to assist in preventing the loss of such facilities which will have serious negative impacts on small rural communities.
Ministry of Energy Mines Electricity rate design is the responsibility of the British Columbia Utilities Commission. One principle used by the British Columbia Utilities Commission is that rates should not discriminate between customers. Where two different users have similar patterns of use, they should have similar bills. BC Hydro has submitted its 2015 rate design application to the British Columbia Utilities Commission, and it is currently underway. This application will cover the general service rates that recreational facilities are served under. Municipalities are encouraged to participate in this process.