Sun Peaks Independent News, Volume 22, Issue 4

Peaks West Townhouse after the redesign by Charmaine Clarke Interiors partnered with Meranti Developments LTD.

Photo by Dom Koric Photography

STAY TUNED!

A NOTE FROM COMMUNITY REPORTER LIZ MCDONALD

As she says goodbye to Sun Peaks, Liz reflects on a few powerful examples of the impact local journalism has on communities small and large.

I’m sad to report this is my final print edition with Sun Peaks Independent News, and I’d like to thank each and every friend, reader, supporter and teammate I’ve had the pleasure of working with in my time as SPIN’s community reporter.

For anyone who is curious, I’ve decided to move to the coast for a position with Pique Newsmagazine in Whistler, B.C. The position is closer to friends and family, so the move made sense on a personal and professional level.

I’m grateful for the opportunity to get to know Sun Peaks, cutting my teeth as a newbie fresh out of journalism school. SPIN helped me become a better reporter and the mountain made me a way better skier.

As part of my goodbye, I’d like to reflect on a few stories I’ve worked on. Here is a list of my top faves from the last year and four months.

A day in the life of a Thompson-Nicola conservation officer

This story gave me insight into how conservation officers first came to be in the province, and taught me just how many areas they have influence over throughout their job duties. Officer Mike Sanderson walked me through what his job entails and I came away with a bigger appreciation for the role.

Ukrainian refugee and her daughter among number of people seeking housing in Sun Peaks

Moving somewhere completely new can be difficult for anyone, and this story brought home just how challenging the experience is for someone who didn’t choose to leave their country by choice, but because of a war.

How does Sun Peaks Fire Rescue protect the community from wildfires?

Each year, wildfires pose a risk to our community and this story taught me what’s done to try and protect Sun Peaks from wildfires. This year’s wildfire season likely could be worse due to the lowest snowpack levels in 50 years, according to the River Forecast Centre.

Local farmers are making cattle resilient to climate change

The intersection of food and climate change is one that is rich with stories of people learning to adapt, as shown by local ranchers making cattle resilient to increasingly hot summers as climate change continues to impact our world. This story welcomed me into the world of ranching, and while I met wonderful ranchers Joanne and Gord Nicklas, their cattle stole the show by being so friendly.

Disc Golf soars to Sun Peaks

Writing this story, I had no idea how much fun disc golf is. Recently, I had a chance to try the game, and I can’t help but say I’ll be back to the green the first chance I get. Disc golf is a silly activity and I don’t think I’ll ever be good at it, but it’s certainly a great reason to go for a walk with friends.

Joanne Nicklas stands with one of her cows in a field. She hopes cross-breeding cattle will result in heat tolerance for the animals so they can better cope with climate change. Photo by Liz McDonald.

Sun Peaks Fire Rescue chief Dean Schiavon stands next to a pile of cleared wood that will be burned or chipped on Mt. Morrisey. Photo by Liz McDonald

Liz McDonald spent over a year at Sun Peaks Independent News. Photo by Zuzy Rocka

COUNCIL AMENDS 2 BYLAWS

Changes include a requirement for short-term rental owners to share a valid business number on listings.

By Liz McDonald

Council approved amendments to the Good Neighbour bylaw and the Bylaw Notice Enforcement (BEN) bylaw, which covers fines relating to bylaw infractions.

Both were given third readings at previous meetings, but these readings were rescinded to amend the bylaws further.

Council removed references in the Good Neighbour Bylaw to using a sound meter to determine whether noise levels are too high,

which will allow bylaw to decide what level of noise is acceptable based on situational context. Another amendment included removing references to snow removal in this bylaw, as it’s already included in the parking and traffic bylaw.

Because these references were amended, the BEN bylaw also required amendment.

Council also brought forward an update for their short-term rental policy to reflect changes to the business license bylaw, removing a reference to stays of 28 days or less, as any property rented that isn’t covered by the Residential Tenancy Act is considered a short-term rental (STR). They also removed a section about accepting and considering TUP applications where a tenant or owner lives in the dwelling. They added a section requiring a valid business number to be included in a STR listing.

SUN PEAK MOUNTAIN RESORT MUNICIPALITY HOLDS PUBLIC BUDGET MEETING

Residents can provide feedback on the budget until May.

On April 8, council held a public budget and five-year plan meeting, discussing costs related to staffing, affordable housing, wildfire risk reduction and the elimination of debt from the water reservoir built in 2020.

There will be a 6.50 per cent tax increase, and most of the money will go toward fire, public works and administration costs. Subsequent years call for a 2.5 per cent tax increase. The bulk of taxes collected by Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality (SPMRM) go to the regional government for education, policing and hospital funds. 38 per cent is used at the local level.

Notable increases in the budget include allocating funding for a senior planning position, new bylaw officers and funding for Granicus, a software that monitors compliance with short-term rentals.

Residents can expect construction costs for road repairs, a traffic safety plan and a 21 per cent rate increase for water use. $5.6 million remains on a loan for the 2020 surface water reservoir and the increase in water fees will help reduce the municipality’s debt. From 2025 to 2029, wastewater rates may increase by ten per cent.

There are no borrowing plans for 2024, but 2025 may see a necessary $1 million spent on a new fire truck to replace a more than 30-year-old one. The municipality plans to increase reserves by 2025 and highlighted the sizeable number of grants SPMRM received for various projects.

The budget will be approved by May and feedback is welcome from residents by emailing Cheryl Taylor-Gale.

SUN PEAKS FREESTYLE CLUB ATHLETES SWEEP AT JUNIOR NATIONALS

One athlete was named a national champion among the sizeable number of gold medals for the club.

Freestyle youth in Sun Peaks took home numerous awards at a competition at Olympic Park in late March.

Sun Peaks Freestyle Club athletes were invited to Calgary on an invite-only basis from March 22 to 24 for junior nationals hosted by Freestyle Canada. Athletes competed in big air and slopestyle, making podium appearances for their skills.

Ryder McKenzie-White won gold in the under-16 slopestyle category. As the competitor with the highest score for all age categories, his performance earned him the title of overall national junior slopestyle champion. He also came fifth place in big air for the under-16 category.

Marigold Campbell won gold for under-16 girls in big air and Wren Grunling earned gold in big air and slopestyle.

Other notable results include Cooper Basko’s silver for slopestyle in the under-14 category and fourth place for big air. Jackson Atkinson came in 11 place for under-16 slopestyle and seventh in big air. Quinn Basko came in 12 place for under-14 slopestyle and in 17 place for big air.

Ryder McKenzie-White, Jackson Atkinson and Cooper Basko then headed to Whistler from April 7 to 10 for an invite-only senior national championship.

Jason White, parent of Ryder McKenzie-White and board member for Sun Peaks Freestyle Club, wrote over email that it was an “astronomical feat” for them to get an invite to the event and is a testament to their performance on the Canada Cup tournaments throughout the season.

“[Senior] nationals is the biggest event of the year, with invites going out to World Cup and even Olympic athletes. This will be a big eye-opener for the boys, but they have been training in the big park in Whistler and are ready to see how they stack up against Canada’s best,” White said.

Ryder McKenzie-White from Sun Peaks Freestyle Club stands on the podium. Photo by Jason White

Sun Peaks’ short-term rental owners are now required to include a business number on their listings.

Photo by Zuzy Rocka

SUN PEAKS RECEIVES WATER SUPPLY LINE GRANT TO HELP WITH GROWING POPULATION

Millions in grant funding goes toward improving water supply in Sun Peaks.

By Liz McDonald

Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality (SPMRM) recently received more than $4 million in grant funding to improve the village’s water supply.

The grant comes from the federal and provincial governments as part of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program. It will be used for a fourkilometre pipeline connecting the surface water reservoir built in 2020 to the water treatment plant. The overall cost is estimated at $6.25 million, and $4,583,125 is now grant-funded.

Increasing water needs come from a surge in population in recent years, with census data showing the population more than doubled between 2016 and 2021. The increase in permanent residents, alongside the new housing developments Switchback Creek and Alder Estates will further increase water use.

Sun Peaks Mayor Al Raine said the grant is welcome news, as the municipality previously funded

the surface water received through investing $6.5 million and the municipality is still servicing the debt.

“We’re very pleased to get that support,” he said. “Without the grant, I’m not sure we could do the project.”

The surface water reservoir supplements groundwater by collecting runoff from rain and snowmelt.

The funding was announced on World Water Day, March 22, with 14 different communities receiving funding for water-related projects.

Anne Kang, minister of municipal affairs, provided a statement about the funding.

“The Municipal Water Supply Line project will increase the water supply for people in the Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality, better protecting them against water shortages and summer drought conditions,” she said.

This spring and summer are already shaping up to be a scarce year for water, with the River Forecast Center showing snowpack for B.C. at 63 per cent of normal, “the lowest in 50 years.”

Experts at the River Forecast Centre noted that there will be “significantly higher drought risk for this spring and summer.”

In a press release provided by SPMRM, Harjit Sajjan, minister of emergency preparedness, made a statement on behalf of Sean Fraser, minister of housing, infrastructure and communities.

“To support healthy communities and protect ecosystems, we must prioritize upgrades and maintenance of clean drinking water facilities and wastewater treatment systems,” Sajjan said.

Engineering for the project starts this summer, and the pipeline should be built next summer.

The wastewater treatment centre as seen from above. Photo by Liz McDonald

FOREIGN BUYERS BAN LEAVES MILLIONS OF DOLLARS OF INVESTMENT AT RISK

Sun Peaks Resort LLP partners with the Canadian Ski Council and others to lobby for amendments to the foreign buyers ban after it was extended in February.

By Liz McDonald

Sun Peaks Resort LLP (SPR) has launched a lobbying campaign with the Canadian Ski Council (CSC) and Canada West Ski Areas Association (CWSAA) to gain the eyes and ears of the federal and provincial governments after Ottawa extended a ban on foreigners buying Canadian property in February 2024.

Darcy Alexander, chief executive officer for SPR, explained the resort chose to speak out about formal lobbying efforts because the extension leaves millions of dollars of new development at risk and unfairly affects three ski resorts in the province. The ban also has the potential to stall the master development plan (MDP), which plans for expected growth by developing real estate.

The legislation was designed to ease pressure on the Canadian housing crisis by reducing foreign investment in urban centres, with exemptions for areas like Sun Peaks. However, while nonCanadians can buy property at Whistler, Banff, Mount Tremblant, Blue Mountain and others, Sun Peaks, Apex and Silver Star are not exempt from the ban.

According to Alexander, the legislation creates an unequal playing field for developers trying to sell real estate in Sun Peaks, as well as a missed opportunity for buyers who might want to purchase at the three resorts impacted.

What he describes as “simply an error,” the reason the three resorts aren’t exempt from the

legislation is because they fall within the census metropolitan areas (CMA) of other communities. The CMA uses census data from commuter traffic to determine how interconnected communities are, and Sun Peaks is included in Kamloops’ CMA.

Development in the lurch

The Switchback Creek development has 44 units, and Alexander said if they aren’t sold, there’s an economic impact to Sun Peaks from a tourism perspective, as well as fewer beds

The foreign buyers ban is putting millions of dollars of investment in question, according to Sun Peaks Resort LLP's chief executive officer Darcy Alexander. Photo by Kyle James

available for visitors who rent the properties while on vacation.

The four-phase project is currently in phase one and two, and the slow movement of real estate from the ban is giving the resort pause for continuing the project.

“One of the challenges for us in a small community is that we have to bring in almost all of our construction people…if we stopped construction, those guys that live and work here, and others that come in will go to other places like Whistler or Vancouver where real estate can be sold,” Alexander said. “Then you have a hard time getting them back to the community.”

In addition to the risk associated with building properties that might not move in the market is the sunk cost of infrastructure already invested in Switchback Creek.

“We had to build a whole bunch of infrastructure, roads and bridges and water reservoirs and all that stuff over the last three to five years to support the development of these new units,” he said. “Now spending millions of dollars more to build the units, and we're having a hard time selling them and the foreign buyers ban is a big part of that problem.”

The investment overall is in excess of $100 million, according to Alexander.

The solutions

Alexander proposed a legislative amendment to create exemptions for controlled recreation areas or CRAs.

“Controlled recreation areas are a special designation in British Columbia for ski resorts and other resort properties,” he explained. “That designation is completely recreational and tourism-driven. If those were exempted, then there would be no problem with us.”

Before 2024, SPR, CSC and CWSAA worked under the assumption that the legislation would expire in December 2024.

“Now they've extended it by another two years, multiplying the harm on us,” Alexander said. “So we have to speak out. We can't wait any longer for a resolution to magically appear.”

Paul Pinchbeck is the president and CEO of CSC, and he said the council is advocating for legislative change in several ways.

“[We’re] working directly with staffers in Ottawa, and we're working in the various departments – housing and finance most notably, as well as engaging with our tourism colleagues in the federal government and national organizations,” Pinchbeck said. “We're also working with engaging members of the opposition in order to keep them informed and to see what solutions they might be able to bring to bear on this issue.”

CSC also hired a lobbying agency called Earnscliffe Strategies, which has provincial and national ties.

Pinchbeck reiterated that they’ve been engaging Ottawa on the issue for two years, but the extension led to a change in strategy.

“Once the extension of the ban was announced, we felt we needed to be a little more public and much more solution-oriented. We just simply couldn't allow this ban to go on unchallenged anymore.”

The relationships between the government of British Columbia and Sun Peaks, Silver Star and Apex should mean they are exempt according to Pinchbeck. Each of the ski areas has commercial recreation agreements with the province. He also noted that the province supports a legislative amendment despite the legislation being federal jurisdiction.

“The B.C. government has an interest in promoting and growing these tourism destinations for the betterment of all,” he said.

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INSIDE ONE LOCAL’S MOUNTAIN ABODE

Dan Hollyer shares a peek into the home he built in Sun Peaks with his wife Linda.

By Louise Hudson

Every type of architecture from cutesy cabin to modernist mansion can be seen while housegazing around Sun Peaks. Although styles are always changing, there are some fundamentals that most prospective ski town home-owners look for.

Ski-in and ski-out access, view-maximizing orientation and sloping roofs are some of the initial prerequisites. Many architects reflect the unique mountain setting with a connection to the landscape, choosing organic building materials which are also resistant to fluctuations in temperature, sun, wind and snow.

Within the home, effective insulation and heating are absolute musts, but have to be balanced with the trend for expansive windows, patio doors and outside entertaining spaces. Increasingly, heated boot racks are topping many wish lists, as well as lock-up storage and garages with ski and bike racks.

Then there are the luxuries such as games rooms, home theatres and gyms. And, of course, wow factor features - a grand entrance, custom staircase, dramatic fireplace or artisan woodwork.

One way to ensure the perfect mountain home, tailored to specific requirements is to build it yourself - but this is not for the faint-hearted or DIY dabblers. After sitting the owner builder exam in 2016, Dan Hollyer embarked on his ambitious build on Bella Vista in July 2017. With a BSc in construction and 30 years of contract and project management experience as a Chartered Builder in the UK, he had the right pedigree.

Helped by his son-in-law, Anthony Van Vliet’s company 3 Point Contracting Ltd., along with a few friends and various specialized tradespeople, Hollyer and his wife Linda were able to move into what would later be the rental suite in 2021. The much-anticipated completion celebration will finally be held as soon as the swim spa install is complete in summer 2025.

“No one involved will be forgotten,” Hollyer said.

Although Hollyer did 65-70 per cent of the work himself, along the way he employed various B.C. construction companies for heavy duty draughting, bulk excavation, electrics, plumbing and roofing,

as well as specialists such as Chrigel’s Timber Chalet for decorative beams and Kirkwood Elevators.

“I did everything else myself including the initial design drawings, other excavation, surface and foul water sewers/water service, ground water harvesting tanks irrigation system and the roof top fire suppression system,” Hollyer said.

From floor, wall and deck framing, insulation and reinforcing, to roof sheeting, stone cladding and shingle painting, his lengthy list went on and on.

At the design stage, the Hollyers’ paramount priority was optimizing the spectacular south westerly views straight down the valley.

“I achieved this by making it a three-level home with an inverted floor plan with main living areas on the top floor and a wall of windows and patio sliders accessing a walk-out deck at the third level both front and back,” Hollyer explained.

When planning the total of four decks, he had to weigh the burden of snow clearance in winter, with the benefits of outdoor living in summer.

“Maximizing the view and minimal effort to get to the ski way prompted the inverted floor plan and building into the mountain, rather than digging a hole to site the house into,” Hollyer explained.

Built with a focus on skiing and family

“Having a safe outside area for grandkids to run around unsupervised and away from wildlife necessitated the front deck on the third level and it would be great for sundowners. Maybe too much sun in deepest summer so a shaded back deck, barbie points on both and can't live without music so outdoor speakers.”

Skiing was also a major imperative for the family.

“An initial design consideration was to allow for easy access to the ski way,” Hollyer said. “This necessitated having two levels of the building partially subterranean to limit the climb up the back yard.”

Turning his attention to the boot room, he decided to put it immediately beside the rear entrance door for direct access.

“As silly as it seems the best feature is a five foot long drain to catch snow melt below the ski storage rack,” he said. “Any other melt water can be easily swept to the drain and, of course, the 12 pair boot drier is another feature. Nothing like toasty warm boots in the morning!”

The Hollyers’ relocation to Sun Peaks from Whistler had been prompted by a flurry of grandchildren.

“A 1000 square foot townhome just wasn't going to accommodate too many more and in Whistler, another bedroom was going to cost at least one arm if not a leg as well," Hollyer recalled. The resulting 3500 square foot edifice was a labour of love, embracing the needs of his three married daughters and their growing families. The potential for six or more grandkids led him to dream up a unique bunk room with beds built around three walls creating sleep space for seven, plus room for two more trundle beds:

“What memories would be created with all the cousins sharing that space,” he said. “Not much sleeping getting done!”

As the heart of the home, he positioned the kitchen centrally with other spaces radiating off. In order to cater to 14-16 people, he doubled up with two of each of the main appliances, a spacious pantry, an ultra long island countertop and direct access to the deck. Aware of the summer bug problem, he decided against folding concertina doors, opting instead for sliders with insect screens.

Hosting their extended family for at least a month every year for skiing, hiking and biking vacations, the Hollyers have après nailed with a home cinema, a recreation room/gym, a small bar area and an integrated music system with hidden speakers throughout the home.

Planning for the future

As a ski instructor, Hollyer knows about all the vagaries of wintersports and the ski resort lifestyle.

“Injury is an inevitable part of being in a ski town and when you sit down to design a house and your crutches are by the side of your chair I guess this brings it home well and truly,” he said. “We wanted to future proof our home to meet our future needs as we age so an elevator was an essential, particularly with an inverted floor plan - and it’s great for groceries and trash.”

Additionally, all the bathrooms have level-entry showers with no curbs to climb over.

Factoring in the environmental footprint, Hollyer decided against a heated driveway. Maximum insulation was another crucial consideration along with water conservation.

“The rainwater harvesting tanks will allow us to irrigate the gardens and conserve water,” he said. To help mitigate wildfire damage, he chose green (living, well-watered) grass which doesn’t burn easily for the landscaping and installed a diverter valve in order to supply his own water to roof line sprinklers.

“We can also supplement the holding tanks with the swim spa water, and roof runoff will be returned to the tank.”

Hollyer is also very passionate about staff accommodation.

“The resort housing shortage isn't a new phenomenon,” he said. “Thirty years ago when my ski instructing career took off, accommodation was hard to secure. Once secured, you maintained it by being the perfect tenant, so having been on both sides of the story, we felt it was our civic responsibility to provide a suite - no resort can survive without its workforce.”

He built the one-bedroom rental suite on the second level with its own external entrance staircase plus panoramic deck, specified to the same standard as the main house.

“There may come a time when we will have to live there ourselves with the ever-rising cost of resort living, and rent the main house to supplement our retirement income,” he pointed out.

Anything lacking? Hollyer said no although, had finances allowed, he would have liked to incorporate a two pipe waste water system with waste heat recovery.

Large windows help let in Sun Peaks' beautiful views. Photo by Dan Hollyer

Wall-to-wall bunk beds provide ample space for Dan Hollyer's numerous grandchildren to visit Sun Peaks. Photo by Dan Hollyer

The heart of Dan Hollyer's home - the kitchen. Photo by Dan Hollyer

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A SNEAK PEEK INTO SWITCHBACK CREEK AND ALDER ESTATES

Two new real estate developments offer luxury amenities, spacious living and instant access to outdoor recreation.

By Liz McDonald

Luxury real estate developments Switchback Creek and Alder Estates are available for purchase, and SPIN has a sneak peek from Engel and Völkers Sun Peaks about these two development projects.

Switchback Creek

This 44-unit neighbourhood is currently in the first and second phases of development, with the first phase on sale now. The townhouses and condos include enough space for all the toys a mountain lifestyle owner seeks and are also zoned for nightly rentals.

Developed by Sun Peaks Resort LLP (SPR) and built by A&T Project Development Inc., what makes Switchback Creek unique from previous builds like Echo Landing, Altitude and Powder Heights is the elevated design and larger living spaces.

Quinn Rischmueller from Engel and Völkers explained that she’s been involved in all of the new developments in Sun Peaks since 2017, and Switchback Creek redefines what’s offered for residents.

“This is a really exciting product because it's quite different,” she said. “It's a refreshing, elevated design that they've done compared to previous

developments like Echo Landing, Altitude and Powder Heights.”

The developments have addressed interest from buyers to have more space as well.

The townhomes are now up to 20 per cent larger and the condos are up to 38 per cent larger than Echo Landing, Altitude and Powder Heights.

The prices for condos start at $909,999 and townhomes start at $1,469,999.

The townhomes offer the biggest garages available in the East Village, with two-car parking and opportunities to upgrade the garage to include a ski and bike tuning set-up, bike and ski racks and a boot and glove dryer. The upgrade also comes with cabinetry and lockable hardware.

Owners get incredible views of the valley and the peak of Mt. Tod, and townhouse owners can expect a south-facing patio on the front of the property.

Realtor Nicola Gray of Engel and Völkers Sun Peaks noted another winning feature of the project includes designing the townhomes to overlook the roof line of the six-plex condos.

“It's something that they purposely did when they were building them to maximize that view,” she said.

The homes' standards are already high, with heated tile flooring, under-cabinet lighting and quartz countertops in the kitchen and bathrooms.

With easy access to outdoor recreation and plenty of room for guests, Switchback Creek offers space inside and out for prospective buyers.

submitted by Engel and Völkers Sun Peaks

If your tastes are premium, you can choose upgrade options, such as an electric vehicle charger, Kitchenaid appliances, matte black ceiling fans and accent wood wall paneling.

To sweeten the deal for buyers, the developer just announced a $10,000 credit for purchasers of the project for over 20 Sun Peaks businesses.

“You can buy ski passes, bike passes, retail, food and beverages if you purchase at Switchback Creek,” Rischmueller said.

Always an important consideration when buying property at a ski resort is ski-in and ski-out access.

“They're also going to have very good ski-in, ski-out access off the East Village Ski Way,” Gray said.

Phase one is estimated to be finished by August of 2024 and a model home to view the space is scheduled for completion by September.

Alder Estates

If building your own property in Sun Peaks has always been a dream, consider one of 16 lots available at Alder Estates.

For the first time in 15 years, single-family lots are available for your mountain dream home, built to suit your specific tastes. Notably, the area is the first-ever singlefamily lot neighbourhood in Sun Peaks pre-zoned for shortterm rentals, which Rischmueller explained increases the home’s value by at least $100,000 to $200,000.

The zoning ensures owners won’t have to apply for a temporary use permit.

“We have many buyers that are looking for investment purposes and that’s something that comes along with these lots,” Rischmueller said.

Even more exciting, the land can be purchased by foreign buyers because the lots are vacant.

“This is an excellent opportunity for foreign investors who are looking to purchase within Sun Peaks but are currently unable to do so because of the foreign buyer ban,” Gray said.

The shortage of land in Sun Peaks means opportunities to build single-family homes within the resort are few and far between.

Eventually, both Switchback Creek and Alder Estates will have easy access to the future East Village and already have quick access to skiing, cross-country, golfing, hiking, biking and snowmobile trails.

The lot design for Alder Estates. Map submitted by Engel and Völkers Sun Peaks

The condos and townhouses at Switchback Creek offer stylish amenities for new owners in Sun Peaks.

Photo submitted by Engel and Völkers Sun Peaks

Alder Estates is the first single-family lot development to be offered at Sun Peaks in 15 years.

HOW TO MAKE YOUR HOME A SHORT-TERM RENTAL

From start to finish, Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality provides an overview of applying for a temporary use permit.

By Louise Hudson

Many Sun Peaks property owners want to rent their homes shortterm for visitors to the picturesque village in summer and winter, so SPIN spoke with Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality (SPMRM) to learn about the process from start to finish.

The process

Short-term rentals (STRs) are regulated through SPMRM’s business license bylaw. Nicky Jonsson is the director of corporate services, and she said the first step in the process to securing a STR business license for a temporary use permit (TUP) is providing a site plan which includes details about parking availability, landscaping and snow storage.

Once the paperwork hits Jonsson’s desk, she said it usually takes two to three weeks before it goes to council for an initial review. If there aren’t any concerns over the application, council’s review includes a staff recommendation to send out a notice of intent to properties 50 metres away from the applicant, and often to the whole street.

Residents have the right to submit comments for or against the application, which goes to a public hearing about a month later, right before a regular council meeting.

The notice of intent is part of the process because SPMRM wants to hear feedback from residents about whether neighbours are comfortable having a STR on their street.

Since TUPs expire, they can come up for renewal and the notice provides an opportunity to hear from neighbours who might have had issues or positive reviews of the STR in their neighbourhood.

“Sometimes people are against nightly rentals in general. It may not be anything to do with this specific property, but they're against them. Then there’s people that have said ‘there’s so many parties at this property, it’s loud, there’s been parking issues’ and they don’t want to have to contact bylaw services everytime.”

At the public hearing, any input from the public, whether in

Sun Peaks Centre, where meetings for Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality happen and council decides whether a TUP is approved. Photo by Zuzy Rocka

written or verbal form, is heard on the council floor.

After that, the item is brought up again during the subsequent regular council meeting.

“At that time, council will review it and approve it, deny it or defer it if they have any further questions. Generally speaking, it takes about two and a half to three months to get an okay from start to finish,” Jonsson said.

The fine print

Applying for approval is just one part of the process. There are also associated fees for having a business license, density limits for approving the STR, an on-mountain contact requirement, a garbage disposal plan and software that monitors compliance with business licenses.

“As part of the business licensing fee or business license application, they will have to provide proof that they have registered with Tourism Sun Peaks,” she said.

The municipal and regional district tax is a tax of up to three per cent applied to sales of short-term accommodations. This tax funds local tourism marketing, and there’s also a provincial sales tax that applies to the STR.

The density limit guidelines for SPMRM are set at 25 per cent of the built homes on a street, and Jonsson said when an application comes up for a street that’s at capacity, the application goes into

a queue and there’s no payment required until the application can move forward.

She also recommends ensuring adequate room for snow storage and parking is within property lines.

“Before the TUP is finally approved, they will also be required to get a site inspection done by the fire department,” she said.

The inspection reviews whether the building is up to code and conforms to the information submitted in the application.

There are also important requirements for an onmountain contact, a person who is available should the bylaw respond to any issues with the rental.

A garbage disposal plan is a new feature of the business license, which became necessary after numerous incidents of vacationers disposing of garbage that became attractants for bears and other wildlife.

Finally, there’s Granicus, a program that scans advertisements and business licenses to ensure they match. It will help inform the municipality on infractions–like advertising beyond the number of guests allowed through the license.

Jonsson noted that new provincial legislation starting May 1 will require STR advertisers to include their business license when advertising, which will help SPMRM police them.

TUP or tourist-zoned property

While council often approves TUP applications, the business license application is not guaranteed to get approval.

When purchasing property in Sun Peaks, some neighbourhoods under construction like Alder Estates are already zoned for tourist accommodations. The zoning means property owners won’t need to go through a TUP process.

Council has faced disagreements in the community over short-term rentals within residential neighbourhoods, and approval is entirely up to council’s discretion.

Council is reviewing TUP regulations in April 2025, and the bylaw could change then.

One solution for people hoping to secure shortterm rentals, according to Jonsson, is purchasing in a neighbourhood zoned for tourism.

“Going forward, the hope is that new developments here will be either residential or [tourist zoned]. Eventually, we can get out of having to do these TUPs… But it's going to be a long process before we get to that point.”

FROM PASSÉ TO PROGRESSIVE: NEW TRENDS IN HOME DECOR

Updates to homes in Sun Peaks include minimalist decor, clean lines and local art.

By Louise Hudson

Transforming older ski resort homes into modern mountain sanctuaries involves a delicate balance of preserving the best of traditional charm while infusing contemporary elements for comfort and style.

Efficiency renovations may include updating infrastructure, such as heating, insulation and windows, while modernizing with smart home technology and sleek finishes can elevate the property's appeal. For those seeking more affordable options, refreshing ski resort properties can involve simple, yet effective updates such as painting walls to brighten interiors, refinishing wooden floors for a

fresh look and incorporating cozy textiles like faux fur throws and cushions for a warm ambiance.

Artist Charmaine Clarke is an interior designer helping Sun Peaks homeowners achieve their aesthetic and practical goals. Exemplified by her own Burfield duplex built by Meranti in 2018, Clarke personally favours the modern mountain mojo with a hint of country charm.

“Design elements are harmonious with the use of lines throughout, both horizontal and vertical,” she explained. “The red wall is a conversation piece and primary accent in the home.”

When creating concepts for others, whether it’s a forever home or a second home, she strives for a unique vibe reflective of the owner's personality, needs and lifestyle.

From the early aughts to today

“Most homes or vacation rentals in Sun Peaks were built in the early 2000s when the resort saw a significant increase in demand for rental properties,” Clarke said. “If you have had the opportunity to visit most of these places like I have, you see a common trend amongst most builds.”

Dated elements typically include fireplaces of river

rock with low square gas fires, pine or cherry wood trim and doors, bulky furniture, laminate countertops, walls painted in terracotta, yellow or green, multicoloured slate field tile, carpet or dark wood floors and dim, warm lighting.

“Fast forward 24 years to now, and we are starting to see a completely different trend,” she said. “We have moved on from the pine and moody browns and have adopted a fresher, cleaner look by incorporating more whites, grays and neutrals.”

Fireplaces have gone linear, using masonry or tile with electric fires. Pristine white for trim and doors brightens up the home and is easy to accent.

Kitchens sport granite or quartz countertops with grey or light tile, which is also reflected in bathrooms. Walls are neutral, sometimes with a splash of colour or wallpaper as an accent feature, just like in Clarke’s own home. Laminate or vinyl flooring, which is more durable than carpet is trending and LED lighting, which uses less energy, makes homes bright.

Merging modern elements with existing traditional trappings is also popular. This could involve preserving original architectural features like exposed beams or stone fireplaces, while adding fresh furnishings and fixtures for a seamless blend of old and new.

Ultimately, the goal is to create inviting retreats

New build Burfield Townhouse by Meranti Developments LTD. for Charmaine and Edward Clarke. Photo by Dom Koric Photography

that embrace both the rustic allure of the mountains and the comforts of contemporary living, appealing to winter enthusiasts and summer adventurers alike.

Goodbye maximalist, hello minimalist

From the antiquated dark and over-sized direction, furniture has morphed to minimalist.

“By focusing on the ‘less is more’ approach, contractors and designers have succeeded in providing homeowners with a more modern and welcoming space,” Clarke explained. “The simplicity of the design also gives homeowners far more freedom to accent the space to suit their personal taste without conflicting with any of the existing elements.”

Working with Meranti Developments Ltd. for the last five years on larger scale interior projects, she has also developed a long list of tips for cosmetic upgrades.

“A fresh coat of paint goes a long way - something neutral and light in colour can change the entire look and feel of a home,” she pointed out. “Ornaments

and trinkets can clutter a room, simplify your space! Throw pillows, accent rugs and blanket throws can freshen up a room and add a splash of colour, comfort and softness to a space…..but don't get too carried away!”

With the plethora of local artists choosing Sun Peaks as home, she suggests reaching out for original artwork, prints and photography - Lone Wolf Gallery, Alpine Images and ArtZone Sun Peaks are great resources. Handmade artisanal tables can create an instant wow factor, sprucing up any living room. For example, the wood and resin dining, coffee and end tables made by custom furniture specialists, Canyon Ridge Studio in Kamloops.

On the outside

For the warmer months, decks and patios are important - a relatively easy fix is to find a large outdoor accent rug.

“Something durable and easy to clean,” Clarke advised. “Avoid boxy, closed-off patio furniture which small animals can nest in - instead get chairs with legs.”

She recommended a fire bowl or fire table for cool alpine summer nights. String lights with glass or plastic bulbs add ambiance. Any plants should be alpine-friendly as they need to be able to cope with dramatic temperature fluctuations, and patio doors need to be high quality to withstand mountain elements.

With many homes in rental pools for significant segments of the year, there are many Sun Peaksspecific requirements.

For example in condos, lock-up storage for owners or cages in communal garages. In townhouses, garages with ski racks, shelving and electric vehicle hook-ups, and for all, ample parking spaces.

With owners, renters, cleaners and various services coming and going, effective shareable door lock systems are vital. Smart technology has recently entered this arena. A new collaboration between Schlage and Airbnb, is simplifying entry and exit logistics for hosts and travellers.

Through this integration, access codes are delivered via the Airbnb app, streamlining the checkin and check-out process. Hosts can also extend a guest’s reservation as needed in the Airbnb app, and the code will automatically update to remain active through the updated reservation length.

Peaks West Townhouse before the redesign by Charmaine Clarke Interiors partnered with Meranti Developments LTD. Photo by Dom Koric Photography

Peaks West Townhouse after the redesign by Charmaine Clarke Interiors partnered with Meranti Developments LTD. Photo by Dom Koric Photography

EVENTS

APRIL 19 TO MAY 16

April

NOW UNTIL APRIL 20

Western Canada Theatre has a production of Jesus Christ Superstar , with music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Tim Rice. Get tickets online at wctlive.ca/superstar/

NOW UNTIL APRIL 30

Find end of season deals on gear throughout Sun Peaks retail establishments, with deals between 40 to 70 per cent off winter stock.

APRIL 19 TO 21

Respark your connection with yourself by joining a women’s retreat guided by Emma Hull of Life Untethered. This two-night retreat encompasses workshops for women to focus on building themselves up, guided yoga sessions amongst mountain vistas, forest bathing to ground and recharge your senses, meditation that aligns you with your feminine spirit and delicious yet healthy culinary meals. The retreat includes accommodation, and pricing begins at $1,050. Visit sunpeaksgrand.com to register.

APRIL 15 TO MAY 15

Sun Peaks Alpine Fitness has a great shoulder-season deal for keeners looking to stay healthy, offering 15 visit punch cards for the price of 10. Check the front desk and mention ‘OffSeason24’ to get the deal. Punchcards are valid for 12 months.

APRIL 20

Head to Kamloops Regional Farmers’ Market from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the 200 block of St. Paul Street, Kamloops. A wide variety of vendors bring food, drink and artisan crafts for you to peruse.

APRIL 23 TO 27

Western Canada Theatre presents Inner Elder , described as “a transformative journey through real-life memories.” The story centres around a young Indigenous girl from Alberta who “navigates a world of substance

abuse, aliens, and the spiritual presence of her guiding grandmothers.” Visit https://www. wctlive.ca/innerelder/ for tickets.

APRIL 28

Heffley Creek Community Hall hosts a community yard sale from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., featuring lots of gently used items for sale inside and outside the hall, live music and time spent with fellow treasure-hunters. Email heffleycreekhall@gmail.com for more details.

May

MAY 4

May the fourth be with you as you appreciate Star Wars Day at Paramount Theatre in Kamloops. A pre-show begins at 1:30, with space-themed songs and then Star Wars: VEmpire Strikes Back starts at 2 pm. There’s a second screening and singing performance at 6:30 p.m. with Star Wars: Episode VIII - The Last Jedi. Visit thekfs.ca/movies/ for tickets.

MAY 5

Give back to the beauty of Sun Peaks with the annual trash bash! Join the Rotary Club of Sun Peaks and fellow residents from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and enjoy a BBQ for all your hard work at Bottoms between 11:30 and 1:30 provided by Sun Peaks Volunteer Fire Department Society. Visit sunpeaksresort.com for more information.

MAY 9

Get tuned up for bike season with Sun Peaks Yoga’s bike body prep series. Each Thursday for six weeks, get guided through strength and flexibility, breathwork and meditation for biking led by Meghan Kolodka, certified yoga teacher and personal trainer. Register at sunpeaksyoga.com.

MAY 9 TO 12

Downtown Kamloops presents Spring Fest, bringing life music, shop sales and festivities to downtown Kamloops. Visit downtownkamloops.com/ for more details.

Head to Aberdeen Mall for a spring carnival by West Coast Amusements. Get tickets on westcoastamusements.com/

MAY 11

Celebrate Mother’s Day with an afternoon tea at 423 Tranquille Rd., Kamloops, brought to you by Kuzina Messer Culinaire. The event seatings are from 12 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. Afternoon treats and fancy dress are on the menu. Gluten and dairy-free options are available. Visit https://www. kuzinamesserculinaire.ca/ for more details.

Get your boogie on at a roller disco at McArthur Island curling rink at 7 p.m. Tickets cost 15, visit eventbright.com for more information.

Head to Kamloops Regional Farmers’ Market from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the 200 block of St. Paul Street, Kamloops. A wide variety of vendors bring food, drink and artisan crafts for you to peruse.

MAY 16

Kamloops Art Party hosts a rainbow mandala workshop from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The event is open to all skill levels and costs $59. Visit kamloopsartparty.com for more information.

WELCOME TO THE BUILDING SITE OF YOUR DREAMS

Discover the perfect blend of mountain living and outdoor adventures at Alder Estates! Adjacent to Sun Peaks Golf Course, these 16 lots offer prime access to skiing and biking. Zoned for short-term rentals, they provide a unique opportunity for investors or dream-home builders. Don't miss out on this one-of-a-kind mountain retreat. GST applies. Visit ALDER-ESTATES.CA for more information.

2504 Eagle Court, Sun Peaks, BC

$1,299,000 GST N/A

5 Bed | 3 Bath, 2,786 sq.ft., Zoned RS-1

Ski-in access from Morrisey Mountain. Self-contained 2-bedroom legal suite. Recently upgraded kitchen, flooring and paint. Offered furnished with hot tub.

4119 Sundance Drive, Sun Peaks, BC

$3,399,000 GST N/A

4 Bed | 5 Bath, 4,059 sq.ft., Zoned RS-1 Ski-in, ski-out slopeside home with self-contained 2-bedroom legal suite. Soaring windows, radiant in-floor heat, HRV, hot tub, & oversized double car garage.

Sundance Lodge, Sun Peaks, BC

From $137,000 +GST

Condo-Hotel units with 180 days owner use, Zoned CC-1

Ski-in, ski-out with desirable village location. Outdoor hot tub, exercise room, laundry, underground parking, with in-house management team. Furnished.