Park project lags behind schedule

By RICHARD ROLKE Morning Star StaffJul 28 2006 http://www.vernonmorningstar.com/
There is considerable concern that development of a new park is being dragged out. Greater Vernon Services Commission directors voted Thursday to go to tender on a washroom project on the Sovereign property in Coldstream although staff had been recommending that the process be delayed until December.
“The public’s perception was the park would be ready this year and the reality is it’s not,” said Gary Corner, GVSC chairman and Coldstream mayor. GVSC purchased the property a few years ago, and while the public can use it, no services are in place. The entire budget for all works on the property was $294,000, and with only $53,203 left, there isn’t enough to cover the washrooms, which will cost between $170,000 and $200,000. Directors agreed Thursday to go to tender by the end of August, with a final decision on the project coming in September. If it proceeds, it’s likely the funds will come from reserves, which will then be paid back in the 2007 budget. Corner fears that if tenders don’t proceed this fall, there is a good chance facilities won’t be in place for next summer. “If we have a park there, we need washrooms. It’s something we need to move ahead on,” he said. Al McNiven, parks and recreation administrator, blames the financial situation on rising construction costs and a shortage of skilled trades. “It’s not the easiest time to find contractors,” he said. Fencing has been completed on the site and it’s expected a parking lot will be installed within the next few weeks. “People can use it,” McNiven said of the Sovereign beach on Kalamalka Lake. Anyone accessing the property right now is asked to park at Kidston Elementary School. “People should also realize there is a caretaker in the house and not to infringe on their privacy,” said McNiven. “We ask that they also respect the neighbouring properties and stay in the park.”