A referendum is now expected in June on a $32-million upgrade to the Castlegar and District Recreation Complex.
But only after regional directors had a long debate today on how the votes should be counted.
Rural director Andy Davidoff says they finally decided the city and Areas I and J will be kept separate.
That means if the vote fails in one area, it will fail overall.
In a survey, just over half of Area I residents opposed the option being presented.
Not all Area I residents currently pay into the aquatic centre; about 40 per cent, who live in Shoreacres, Glade, and Playmor Junction are currently excluded. However, this referendum would require them to become part of the service, meaning an additional tax increase.
Davidoff says he wants that spelled out clearly on the ballot.
The proposed upgrades include a second sheet of ice, a new leisure pool and team rooms, office and fitness area expansion, plus improvements to arena storage and change rooms.