www.vernonmorningstar.com
Sunday, March 28, 2010 - The Morning Star A5
News
Parks function facing changes RICHARD ROLKE Morning Star Staff
Greater Vernon’s parks and recreation service continues to evolve through political discussions. Representatives from Vernon, Coldstream and the two electoral areas met for a third time with consultant Allan Neilson-Welch Thursday to see how the function can be changed to address concerns. “We’ve actually come a long ways,” said Mike Macnabb, BX-Silver Star director. “We’ve identified what’s sub-regional in scope and what’s local. We should celebrate that.” Under a proposal put forward by NeilsonWelch, a new restructured function would be limited to existing or future facilities owned
“We’ve actually come a long ways.” — Mike Macnabb by the four jurisdictions through the regional district. That would include Wesbild Centre and the Performing Arts Centre. The same guidelines would apply to nature reserves, trails and beaches, such as Kal or Kin, that are considered important to all jurisdictions. There could also be joint planning and land acquisition for new parks and specific facilities. Any parks or facilities not included in a
new structure would be owned or operated individually by the four communities. While there are some common themes, differences also exist between the parties. The most significant is the Vernon Recreation Complex. The city, which owns the facility, wants full decision-making authority. “All we’re looking for is a way to improve facilities and that’s been the challenge in the past,” said Wayne
Community centre considered RICHARD ROLKE
The property in Morning Star Staff question is the buildEnderby residents ing being vacated by are being asked to rally Enderby Evangelical around the concept of a Chapel. community centre. “It has a beautiful A public meeting auditorium which we will be held need in the Wednesday at community,” 3:30 p.m. at said Walker. the Enderby “There Chamber of are meeting Commerce rooms. We office to discould have a cuss possibly small conferestablishing a ence.” c o m m u n i t y Maureen Walker It’s also centre founpossible space dation and could be leased purchasing property. out for offices. “We have had several Walker says it was people and organiza- decided not to seek City tions say they’re com- of Enderby assistance to ing to the meeting,” said purchase the land and Maureen Walker, who is run a centre. working on the plans “The city doesn’t with Marlene Mydske. have the money,” she If a foundation was said. formed, it would raise “It will be an asset funds to acquire land to the community but and operate the centre. it doesn’t have to come
PAM IS BACK! Book your Appointment Today! 250-503-0112 • 2810A 48 th Ave. Across from The Village Green Mall
out of our tax dollars.” But before any longterm planning can occur, the crucial step is to see if residents attend Wednesday’s meeting. Walker is hopeful that residents will share the vision for the facility. “It could be a centre for community events,” she said.
Lippert, Vernon mayor. But the city would want the other jurisdictions to pay towards the cost of the facility to reflect use by residents from those areas. Jim Garlick, Coldstream mayor, says while the city may hold title, ownership of the complex isn’t clear. “Capital works have been done by all four jurisdictions. There’s been ownership over those years,” he said. Mike Gavinchuk, BX-Swan Lake director, is concerned that his residents could lose access to the complex if there isn’t a financial arrangement. “We should participate as much as we have in the past because we have gained,” he said.
Macnabb says he may consider annual grants, but will not commit to guaranteed funding for the complex because of financial pressures on his residents. Another outstanding issue is arts and culture. Vernon and Coldstream could possibly form a separate function to cover agencies like the museum and art gallery. However, the two electoral areas don’t consider the cultural amenities as similar priorities. Divisions also exist over programming and the Kal Beach parking lot. The participants are expected to meet again with Neilson-Welch in May.
Over 10,000 sq.ft. of greenhouses to choose from
NOW OPEN Same Great Plants... Same Low Prices!
We Grow...You Save!
Geraniums Maverick Series- 9 different colours. Great variety for our Okanagan summers.
59¢ each
You Asked Us
What services does North Okanagan Hospice Society offer? • Hospice House provides residential end of life care for twelve clients and their loved ones. Short term respite is also available for pain and symptom management or caregiver respite. • Individual grief counselling, group support programs, bereavement follow-up, memorials and Celebrate-A-Life are offered at Hospice House and in the community. • Trained and experienced volunteers provide supportive services wherever the client lives: at Hospice House, home, hospital or care facility.
Clematis $2.99 Queen of the Vines Excellent Selection
each
Orchids $ 19.99 in Bloom each Beautiful selection while they last!
250-503-1800 • www.nohs.ca
Spring $ 10.99 /flat Pansies Flat of 36
4" Pansies In Bloom
89¢ each
Huge Selection of EASTER flowers 5839 Okanagan Landing Rd. (3 blocks West of Buy Low Foods Mall) Before the airport
9 am ~ 5 pm 7 days a week