After hearing calls for an outdoor recreation space in the rural community of Osborn, the Peace River Regional District is preparing to respond.
Residents of the North Peace community are being invited to review six designs and the potential tax implications before the Peace River Regional District (PRRD) board considers moving forward with the space.
“During community engagement in summer 2025, Osborn residents expressed preference for an outdoor recreation space rather than constructing a new community hall,” the regional district explained.
The survey and meeting on March 24 at the Cecil Lake Community Hall, and are gauging public reaction to what could be coming to 17526 Siphon Creek Road, according to the PRRD.
General feedback, as well as reviews on the six potential designs for the outdoor space, are being collected. Information and opinions provided will “inform a recommendation to the regional board on whether to move toward a referendum,” board staff explained.
“If approved, the community will have the final say on if they support a new taxation area to fund the project,” they continued.
Of the options presented, the lowest estimated tax rate impact is 48 cents per $1000 – this design includes a picnic shelter with a steel roof and picnic area, a moderate playground, a sports court, and more. Annually, its estimated operating cost is $41,265.
Another option, at 61 cents per $1000, includes basic electrical service, a pavilion, and other services. One step up from that would cost six cents more per grand and $53,098 to run annually.
The two most expensive options would raise the tax rate by over a dollar per $1000 – with the lesser of the two impacts being estimated at $1.02 per $1000. This would include a small hall with utilities, a kitchenette, toilets, and basic interior finishings. Topping the list with an estimated tax hike of $1.14 per $1000 features a small hall with utilities, a moderate playground, and sports and picnic areas.
Option six is “no further development,” which carries no cost. These designs are in their second round of development.
Paper copies of the survey can be picked up from the district’s offices in Fort St. John and Dawson Creek. The online survey launched Wednesday and will remain open until April 1.
