Area C director Allan Patton is focusing on five top priorities in the new year, but he knows they won’t be a walk in the park.

Patton said taking number one spot is lobbying the government to finalize Testalinda slide compensation settlements with affected residents.

The number two priority is making sure the street naming project sees a smooth transition this spring. “I’m still getting lots of calls and emails about it.”

Patton said he needs to coordinate the plan with Canada Post, the highways ministry and the Osoyoos Indian Band.

Number three is continuing to push for the Gallagher Lake sewer project and its funding.

Number four is completing the Regional Trails Master Plan with the help of residents and their trail priorities. Patton said it will be a difficult and expensive process dealing with land use and private ownership issues. “There will be plenty of obstacles.”

Patton said the fifth priority is coming up with a budget that everyone can live with. He plans to schedule a meeting in the rural area to present the numbers, which will reflect an increase. He noted Area C will pay more this year, while the municipality will pay less. “I expect to see increase for all rural areas (in the district).”

Patton commented on the Osoyoos Indian Band’s application for a correctional centre on land north of Oliver. He noted the band has a good chance that its application will be approved by the provincial government. The only drawback he sees is the distance from the Penticton airport.

As far as the national park debate goes, Patton said he’s purposely sitting on the fence. He did say the park boundaries are still a convoluted mess.

The latest news is the provincial government (Ministry of Environment) has reportedly withdrawn its support for the park because of all the divided opinions on the topic.

As far as personal New Year’s resolutions go, Patton said he doesn’t need any because he’s “absolutely perfect.” He then joked that his wife was suddenly feeling ill at that statement.