The District of Lake Country thinks it can get better bang for its buck by doing some infrastructure projects with its own employees rather than hiring someone else.

Lake Country has hired new in-house civil construction and paving crews, and it expects to save $1.8 million to $2.4 million over the next three years by using its own workers for water utility projects, according to a press release from the district issued today, June 29.

“As Lake Country continues to grow and costs continue to escalate, we need to keep finding responsible, forward-thinking ways to deliver municipal services and manage costs. Making the best use of taxpayer dollars is critical,” Mayor Blair Ireland said in the release.

An external contractor estimated a water main project on Glenmore Road would cost $800,000. But the district was able to do it for $530,000. The project included 330 metres of water main, services and hydrants.

“Having these crews in-house strengthens the way we coordinate capital and operational work,” Lake Country’s director of infrastructure Matthew Salmon said in the release. “It also means we can respond more quickly when priorities change, whether it’s a water main break, storm damage or a road surface issue.”

It’s typical for cities to spend a significant amount on external contractors. In 2025, Lake Country paid Parkworks Solutions, a playground construction company, $1.3 million among numerous other contractors, according to its Statement of Financial Information.

Vernon, Kelowna, Kamloops and Penticton all spend millions on external contractors as well.

The District of Lake Country said it’s going to keep using external contractors when it’s appropriate, especially for big or specialized projects. The new in-house crews are meant to be a more cost effective option when it’s suitable.

“This investment is about improving the way we serve our community,” Ireland said.