In a report outlining high costs and uncertain demand, city staff are recommending that 琉璃神社 council pump the brakes鈥攁t least for now鈥攐n the idea of building a city-owned and operated sani-dump for recreational vehicles (RVs).
The report was requested by council last June to explore the feasibility of such a facility. The issue was raised amid concerns about the limited number of places for RV owners to legally and safely dispose of their wastewater in the city, and the potential impact that could have on tourism.
Currently, there are no municipally owned RV dump stations in 琉璃神社. The only public option within city limits is a private sani-dump located at the Shell gas station on Highway 33, which charges $3, or nothing if customers buy fuel.
Staff say they were unable to determine a clear need for a new facility, partly because most campgrounds in the area are already fully serviced. 鈥淪taff conclude that the demand for sani-dump facilities within the city is mainly driven by local residents wanting to empty their RVs,鈥� the report notes.
There are eight licensed agri-tourism RV campgrounds in 琉璃神社, seven of which advertise on-site sanitary services. That leaves very few RV users needing access to a standalone dump station.
The report takes a close look at what a city-operated site would require. Needs include proximity to major highways, room for vehicles to queue and manoeuvre, a connection to the sewer network or a holding tank, potable water, payment systems, security, and regular maintenance.
Price-wise, a permanent site with basic features would cost anywhere between $100,000 and $250,000 to build. Annual operating expenses are estimated at $15,000, not including extra costs if people dump prohibited materials like paint or pesticides.
Staff also reached out to local businesses to see if there might be interest in partnering with the city. Despite some media attention at the time, the response was flat. 鈥淣o local businesses came forward inquiring about adding an RV sani-dump,鈥� the report states. 鈥淭wo private locations in Penticton recently closed due to excess operating challenges and costs.鈥�
Staff also reviewed about a dozen potential city-owned sites that could technically support a sani-dump. However, the 10-year capital plan and 2025 capital budget do not include a program that is aligned with developing such a facility.
Although user fees could potentially cover ongoing maintenance, staff say the upfront construction costs would likely never be recouped. They also caution that charging a fee could make the facility less appealing to tourists, potentially undercutting its purpose.
The report notes that the lack of a municipal dump station could push RV users to other communities, resulting in lost tourism dollars.
鈥淚f council considers this a funding and business priority, a detailed business case, including design and cost estimates, can be prepared,鈥� staff concluded.
Council will consider the report at its May 5 meeting.