After a couple of years of public meetings that generated little to no interest, the Thompson-Nicola Regional District is heading online to get input for its 2013-2017 financial plan.

"I don't want to pursue a course of action that hasn't been successful for us in the past," said Doug Rae, the regional district's director of finance.

People can go online to www.tnrd.ca and provide thoughts on the regional district's budget. Rae said it's simple — follow the financial plan link, read the material and fill out and submit an electronic form.

People can also download an online form and mail or fax it to the TNRD's head office in Kamloops.

Rae encouraged residents to stop by regional district headquarters on Victoria Street or their local library and leave input with staff.

"We would love to get a lot of input. The more the better," said Rae. "My goal is to make it as easy for (the public) to provide input as possible."

People can also leave comments on the TNRD's Facebook page or via Twitter.

The financial plan includes projects up to 2017, with a primary focus on what is on the agenda during the next year.

Regional district board chairman Randy Murray said the website is more interactive, which makes it easier for people engage in budget consultations.

He said budget discussions take place regularly at TNRD board meetings and at events in communities within the regional district. The public is always welcome to take part.

But, given the scope of the region, it's too costly to hold multiple meetings in every area, said Murray.

"So we're looking at using the Internet, websites, social media and advertising and other ways of getting people's attention so they will give us input on things that matter," he said. "We're trying to reach people in a way that works for them."