North Okanagan schools get provincial cash handouts

VERNON – Local schools are getting a cash infusion from the provincial government.

The money will go toward several capital projects at schools in Vernon, Salmon Arm and Armstrong.

Okanagan Landing Elementary is getting $600,000 for a geothermal heating plant projected to save 72 tonnes of carbon dioxide annually, and about $15,000 in operating costs.

Beairsto Elementary will receive electrical upgrades, including a new switchboard to monitor energy use, in the amount of $192,000.

Seaton Secondary will see its 20-year-old roof replaced at a cost of $1,029,500, as well as $264,000 in electrical upgrades.

Pleasant Valley High School in Armstrong will receive $140,000 for a new control system, including carbon dioxide sensors, which will improve energy efficiency and occupant comfort.

Hillcrest Elementary in Salmon Arm is getting $505,000 for a new ground source heat pump expected to save 58 tonnes of carbon dioxide annually and reduce energy costs.

The projects were approved under the province's routine capital program and were chosen based on need, priority, and support for student learning.

To contact a reporter for this story, email Charlotte Helston at chelston@infonews.ca or call 250-309-5230. To contact the editor, email mjones@infonews.ca or call 250-718-2724.