Keremeos Trader
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Long-serving RDOS fire chief announces retirement
The long-serving fire chief of the Keremeos and District Volunteer Fire Department (KVFD) has announced his retirement. Jordy Bosshca has stepped away from his leadership role after 37 years of service as a firefighter, 27 of those years as chief of KVFD. During his decades of service, Bosscha played an integral role in advancing the community’s firefighting and response efforts. The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) would like to express sincere appreciation for his dedication and commitment to the community.
Tony Iannella has been appointed to the newly created role of sub-regional fire chief for the RDOS and will take over operations at KVFD, effective immediately. Fire Chief Iannella will continue to lead the Willowbrook Volunteer Fire Department in Electoral Area “C” (rural Oliver).
Keremeos and Lower Similkameen Indian Band Unite for Emergency Support Services
Keremeos, BC – June 13, 2025
The Village of Keremeos and the Lower Similkameen Indian Band (LSIB) have signed a new agreement to coordinate Emergency Support Services (ESS), enhancing emergency response efforts for both communities.
The agreement, signed on June 9th by Chief Keith Crow and Mayor Jason Wiebe, outlines how the two communities will collaborate on training, planning, and communication to ensure residents receive timely and effective support—whether on reserve land, in the village, or across traditional territory.
“This not only benefits villagers and the sməlqmíx, but everyone—including visitors,” said Mayor Wiebe. Chief Crow added, “The more that village residents and sməlqmíx help each other, the stronger we all will be.”
Conservative Konanz win in Similkameen-South Okanagan-West Kootenay
After two previous bids for a seat in Parliament, the third time proved successful for Penticton city councillor Helena Konanz. Konanz win the Similkameen–South Okanagan–West Kootenay riding as the Conservative Party of Canada candidate.
Following defeats in the 2019 and 2021 elections, Konanz secured a win on Monday, edging out a strong challenge from Liberal candidate Gloria Morgan, with NDP’s Linda Sankey finishing third.
“It’s been a long journey, and I’m incredibly excited and honoured,” said Konanz. Morgan ran a competitive race, keeping the results close until the final count.
Thank you to our local firefighters for their dedication, hard work, and commitment to keeping our community safe each and every day.
