Deka Lake & District Ratepayers Association

A Brief History

Founded on December 3, 1987, under the Societies Act of B.C., the Deka Lake & District Ratepayers Association has a rich history of advocating for the common interests of property owners and residents in our area. Our primary goal, then and now, is to safeguard and promote the well-being of our community.

The Association's formation was spurred by the planned expansion of the Recreational Boundaries by the CRD in the summer of 1987. This expansion aimed to raise taxation funds for the Stan Halcro Arena in 100 Mile House. To address this and other critical issues, a dedicated group of individuals took the initiative to establish the Association.

The first executive committee, elected in July 1987, comprised esteemed individuals such as Ken Newton as President, Bill Todhunter as Vice-President, Maxine Todhunter as Secretary, Shirley Santick as Treasurer, and directors including Pat Monger, Gus Collins, Malcolm Penny, and Nellie Johnson. Over time, as circumstances changed, new faces joined the executive, bringing fresh perspectives and ideas.

The Association has consistently addressed concerns raised by our members and the broader community. These include preserving the eco-system and water quality of our lakes, managing septic systems, mitigating siltation of the Deka channel, ensuring access to the lake, monitoring free-range cattle, addressing unsightly premises, and improving our roads. We actively engage with various levels of government to respond to proposals that directly impact our community.

In addition to our core mission, the Association has fostered the growth of two important community groups. Citizens on Patrol (COP) emerged in 1999 as a response to incidents of vandalism and break-ins, led by the dedicated efforts of Jimmy Dunne and Werner Marx. Recognizing the need for a community center and park, the Mountain Spruce Community Centre Society was formed in 2000 by Ray McManus and Roy Tomlinson.

Throughout the years, our Association has been fortunate to have passionate citizens stepping forward to serve on the executive committee. Following Ken Newton's tenure, our esteemed presidents have included Les Andrew (1990-1992), Malcolm Penny (1992-1993), Larry Streifel (1993-1994), Virginia DeBruyn (1994-1996), Werner Marx (1996-1997 & 2001-2004), Harv Allen (1997-2001), Gus Collins (2004-2005), Hank Hackett (2005-2011), and Al Martin (Vice-President, who stepped up in 2011-2013).

As we reflect on our association's history, we are grateful for the dedication of past and present members who have contributed to the betterment of our community. Moving forward, we remain committed to promoting the interests and well-being of Deka Lake and its surrounding district.