Community Update: Cannabis Referendum Community Information Sessions

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The Okanagan Indian Band (OKIB) is hosting three community information sessions ahead of the November 17, 2026, Cannabis Referendum. The sessions are intended to help Members understand the purpose of the referendum, provide factual and unbiased information about cannabis, and explain what the results could mean for OKIB and its Members.

The sessions will be facilitated by OKIB Band Member Jordyn Cates.

The referendum follows several years of community discussions and work surrounding cannabis businesses on OKIB reserve lands. Its purpose is to establish a binding decision based on the direction of OKIB Members regarding the future of cannabis dispensaries and production on reserve lands.

The information sessions will focus on:

  • Purpose of the referendum: Why the vote is taking place and how it is intended to establish binding direction from Members.
  • Understanding cannabis: Factual, unbiased information about cannabis, including dispensaries, production and related community considerations.
  • Legal implications: What the different referendum outcomes would mean for OKIB’s approach to cannabis authorization and regulation.
  • Member questions: Opportunities to ask questions, seek clarification and better understand the issues before voting.

Community Information Sessions

  • New Horizons: (Light snacks and refreshments available)
    Tuesday, October 27, 2026 from 5:30-7:30pm
  • Duck Lake: 3250 Berry Road, Lake Country (Light snacks and refreshments available)
    Thursday, October 29, 2026 from 5:30-7:30pm
  • Head of the Lake Hall (Light snacks and refreshments available)
    Tuesday, November 3, 2026 from 5:30-7:30pm

The sessions are intended to be informative and neutral. They are not intended to encourage Members to vote Yes or No, but rather to provide the information needed to make their own informed decisions.

Referendum Voting Dates

  • Advance Voting: Thursday, November 5, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
  • Referendum Day: Tuesday, November 17, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Both voting opportunities will take place at Head of the Lake Hall. Mail-in voting is also available.

For more information about the referendum, voting and community information sessions, visit: Community Notice: Cannabis Referendum and Community Information Meetings – Okanagan Indian Band

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