Author: Aria Khan

Selkirk College has announced it will close its fine arts campus in Nelson, British Columbia, at the end of the current academic year. The move is meant to cover a projected financial shortfall of three to four million dollars for 2026–27. The Victoria Street campus has housed the Kootenay School of the Arts since 2006. The school originally opened in 1958 and later became part of Selkirk College. The facility can accommodate up to 33 students and offers specialized programs in fine arts. Board chair Amed Naqvi called the closure a “difficult but necessary” step to ensure the college’s survival.…

A man has been arrested after allegedly setting fire to the Northern Rockies RCMP detachment in Fort Nelson, British Columbia. The incident occurred Thursday when a “considerable amount of smoke” from the fire entered the building through its air intake, prompting a temporary evacuation. Police confirmed that the fire was set on the building’s exterior. While some damage occurred, authorities noted the situation could have been far worse if it had not happened during business hours with staff present. Witnesses reported seeing a man start the fire. Investigators obtained a photograph of the suspect fleeing the scene, which allowed officers…

Residents of Nelson and surrounding communities now have better access to health services with the official opening of the Nelson Community Health Campus. The new facility brings together long-term care, community programs, and culturally safe services in one modern space designed to meet the needs of people of all ages. Provincial officials emphasized that the project represents a major step in strengthening health services in the region. The site will not only provide high-quality medical care but will also create jobs and boost long-term well-being in the community. Located on the former Mount St. Francis hospital site, the campus features…

A man has been arrested in connection with a fire at the RCMP detachment in Fort Nelson, located in British Columbia’s Northern Interior. The Northern Rockies detachment building had to be evacuated temporarily on Thursday after smoke from the fire entered the building through its air intake. Officials described the smoke as “considerable,” prompting staff to leave the premises for safety. Authorities said the fire appeared to have been set on the exterior of the building. Some damage was reported, though police emphasized that the situation could have been far more serious if it had occurred outside business hours when…

The City of Nelson is moving ahead with plans for a major infrastructure upgrade as it seeks funding to replace its failing sewer line. Officials have confirmed that the city applied for $7 million through the Union of B.C. Municipalities Strategic Priorities Fund, which is supported by the Canada Community-Building Fund. The request is for the maximum amount allowed under the program, which helps municipalities across the country finance large infrastructure projects. The full project has been estimated to cost $11.6 million. If the application is approved, the remaining $4.6 million will be covered by the city through its wastewater…

The wildfire season in British Columbia is intensifying as rising heat, strong winds, and prolonged drought fuel dangerous fire conditions. Authorities have warned that this combination could lead to rapid fire growth in the days ahead, particularly in the northeastern region of the province. Several fires are already burning out of control in this area, adding to the challenges faced by crews on the ground. These conditions have now forced a major transportation shutdown, cutting off part of the Alaska Highway near Fort Nelson. The Summit Lake wildfire, located in northern British Columbia, has become a top concern. It was…

Warm, dry weather is fueling 11 wildfires near Fort Nelson, B.C., that have been smouldering underground since last year. Officials say the fires are now producing visible smoke and pose a growing risk to the community. The B.C. Wildfire Service is closely monitoring the blazes and has deployed crews and aircraft to hotspots where the fires could threaten infrastructure. Priority is given to areas that can be safely targeted, while additional resources from across the province are being sent to assist. Northern Rockies Regional Municipality Mayor Rob Fraser said the return of wildfire activity has stirred difficult memories in Fort…

More than 2,000 residents from the Nelson area have shared their views on how to improve local recreation services. This feedback was collected over the past 10 months through surveys, meetings, and other forms of public engagement. The effort was part of a consultation led by the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK). Community members voiced many ideas about how to upgrade existing spaces and what new features might be needed. Their input came from various backgrounds, including families, seniors, youth, and sports organizations. Each group brought its own goals, values, and priorities to the discussion. Keith Page, who chairs…

The 28th Rob Wright West Kootenay Open Tennis Tournament wrapped up with exciting wins for local players and a strong international presence. Hosted by the Nelson Tennis Club from July 25 to 27, the event welcomed 68 players from cities like Kelowna, Penticton, Vernon, and Creston. This year’s tournament showed how global tennis has become. Though the players now live in British Columbia, they originally came from countries such as Mexico, China, Korea, Syria, Qatar, and Iran. Spectators at the courts heard a mix of languages, including French, Arabic, and Farsi, creating a truly international vibe. Despite the high level…