The mission of the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) is to provide area residents and communities with services, governance and representation in a manner that supports the economic, social and environmental goals of the region. The RDCK Board consists of 20 Directors who represent 11 electoral areas (A-K) and nine municipalities: Castlegar, Creston, Kaslo, Nakusp, Nelson, New Denver, Salmo, Silverton and Slocan. Our purpose is to ensure that all residents have access to commonly needed services, no matter where they live; to provide electoral area (rural) residents with an effective form of local government; and to represent municipalities on regional issues. The RDCK promotes regional collaboration, while respecting the diversity of our communities and residents. The RDCK employs approximately 350 part- and full-time staff. Many residents volunteer on the RDCK's 36 commissions or with one of its 18 fire departments.