The Kootenay East Regional Hospital District (KERHD) has approved an additional $7.12 million in funding to support the proposed Oncology & Renal Project at East Kootenay Regional Hospital (EKRH), reinforcing its commitment to expanding critical health services in the region.
The decision was made at a Special Meeting of the KERHD Board of Directors, convened after Interior Health requested additional capital funding for the original two-storey project.
“We have been, and continue to be, strong advocates for this project,” said KERHD Board Chair David Wilks. “With the Province preparing to make capital funding decisions before our next Hospital District meeting—and given that the project may not be approved without formal confirmation of our commitment to provide the additional funds—the Board convened a Special Meeting and adopted the required bylaw amendments.”
“With our funding in place, we trust the Province will continue to move this project forward, approve its share of the funding increase, and proceed with construction plans this year,” Wilks added.
The additional Hospital District contribution of $7,126,400 brings the total cost of the first and second floors of the Oncology & Renal Project to $76,740,000.
Interior Health share: $46,444,000
KERHD share: $30,296,000
The additional KERHD share will be incorporated into the 2026 Annual Budget, which is considering a taxation increase of approximately $30 per average residential property per year from 2026 through 2030.
Regional Impact of the EKRH Oncology & Renal Project
“This project is critical for our region,” said Wilks. “This Board has not only been advocating for expanded Renal and Oncology Services for several years, we have also consistently and proactively designated funding to ensure we were ready to act once the project was approved. Now is the time to act. We cannot afford to wait or to have this project delayed any further.”
In addition to funding for the original two-storey build, the Hospital District has also approved up to $15 million toward the potential addition of a third floor. This funding is conditional on a matching $15 million contribution from Elk Valley Resources.
The proposed expansion at EKRH would enhance access to renal dialysis and oncology care closer to home for residents throughout the East Kootenay, reducing the need for travel outside the region for treatment.
For Fernie and Elk Valley residents, the EKRH Oncology & Renal Project represents a significant investment in local health care infrastructure and long-term regional capacity.
