MLA Pete Davis calls for referendum on East Kootenay time shift

The decision to move the East Kootenay to year-round Mountain Standard Time is drawing mixed reactions across the region.

The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) voted 8–7 in favour of the change during a March 13 board meeting, narrowly approving a plan to stop changing clocks.

If approved by the provincial government, the change would take effect Nov. 1, 2026, when residents would set their clocks back for the final time and remain on Mountain Standard Time year-round.

The proposal would apply across the RDEK, including the City of Cranbrook.

In a statement, the district said staff will forward the decision to the provincial government for clarification on how the change would be implemented.

Kootenay–Rockies MLA Pete Davis says his office has received significant feedback from residents on both sides and is now calling for a public vote.

“A lot of people are coming into the office who are either happy or not happy about the daylight saving time changes. And you know what? It’s split down the middle,” Davis said. “I think this needs to be a decision that we all make.”

Davis is advocating for a referendum to coincide with the October municipal election, allowing residents to vote for or against the change.

Meanwhile, Columbia–Kootenay–Southern Rockies MP Rob Morrison noted the region’s strong ties to neighbouring Alberta, where many residents have family, though he also acknowledged that having a single, consistent time year-round could simplify scheduling.

“There are some people who want it and some who don’t — it’s like politics. You can’t please everybody, and it’s unfortunate,” Morrison said.

Both the RDEK and the City of Cranbrook say they will provide further updates as discussions with the provincial government continue.