By John MoorhouseTuesday, August 29, 2006, http://www.pentictonherald.ca/article_1903.php
Forty million dollars in casino revenue won't lessen the need for next month's referendum on the $56.2-million South Okanagan Event Centre project, says a city official.Jack Kler, the city's director of corporate services, said Monday the city still needs to borrow $39.2 million to pay for the project which will be put to city voters Sept. 16. "We don't have $40 million sitting in a bank account. That money is going to be spread over 13 years, he explained."We're building the building now. We're paying the contractors now, so we have to borrow the money.The total amount to be borrowed includes $29 million for the event centre itself, $7 million for site infrastructure, plus $3.2 million for relocating three of the four Queen's Park sports fields to other locations in the city.The casino revenues will be used to pay back the loans on an annual basis. The funding amounts to roughly $3 million a year and represents one-third of the net profits from the Lake City Casino in Penticton. Most of it is designated as Development Assistance Compensation (DAC) funds which is earmarked to help further develop the "destination aspect of the casino. Penticton was one of four destination casinos approved by the province seven years ago. There are 13 years remaining on the original 20-year DAC funding agreement.Although no more direct provincial government funding has been added to the event centre since last year's announcement of a $9.7-million grant, Kler noted Victoria played a key role in working out the casino revenue agreement and is a full partner in the pact. The deal is to be signed by the City of Penticton, Lake City Casinos, the B.C. Lottery Corp. and the provincial government.Kler said Lake City has agreed not to apply for any portion of the DAC funding during the next 13 years. Previously, the funding has been used to help pay for such projects as the parkade and Hooded Merganser restaurant at the Penticton Lakeside Resort.One unanswered question is how the casino funding announcement, made by local MLAs Bill Barisoff and Rick Thorpe at a special on-site ceremony last Friday, will impact voter turnout at the upcoming referendum.If enough Yes supporters don't bother to show up at the polls, the referendum could be defeated. If that occurs and the casino revenue agreement falls through, the city could lose $30.5 million in DAC funding. However, it would retain $9.5 million through its share of casino revenues which have been included in the overall $40 million allocation.A group calling itself the Coalition for an Affordable Public Events Centre has been urging a No vote in a second referendum question on proposed private sector management of the facility. However, it has not taken such a stance in opposition to the borrowing bylaw for the event centre.The coalition was scheduled to meet Monday night, at which time a designated spokesperson was expected to be chosen. Even though the coalition has its own website at www.nop3soec.ca no one has yet responded to news media inquiries on its position.
Thursday, August 31, 2006
Police getting involved in B.C. halfway house security
Thursday, August 31, 2006 http://www.cbc.ca/canada/british-columbia/story/2006/08/31/bc-corrections.html
Corrections Canada officials say they are finalizing plans to improve security at halfway houses in B.C., by posting police officers at two parole offices this fall.
The officers — one each in Vancouver and in the B.C. Interior — would be be ready to track down escapees as soon as possible."I think it's going to ensure that offenders who decide to go at large from a halfway house are brought into custody much more quickly, " said Corrections Canada spokesman Brian Lang .They would also help make a decision on when to notify the public. The move is also expected to improve communications among parole officers and police, and speed up public notification, says Lang. There are allegations that didn't happen in the case of Bill Abramenko, the Vernon senior who was beaten to death during a home invasion in 2004. Eric Fish, charged with the 75-year-old Abramenko's death, had escaped from a halfway house in the Okanagan city six weeks earlier.No public warning was issued about Fish. Abramenko's daughter, Tracy Barth, says she hopes the new plan results in better communication with the public. "When you see it happen again and again, you wonder does anyone ever really understand how serious this is." Barth says she also wants tougher laws to punish escapees once they're caught, to dissuade them from leaving in the first place.
Corrections Canada officials say they are finalizing plans to improve security at halfway houses in B.C., by posting police officers at two parole offices this fall.
The officers — one each in Vancouver and in the B.C. Interior — would be be ready to track down escapees as soon as possible."I think it's going to ensure that offenders who decide to go at large from a halfway house are brought into custody much more quickly, " said Corrections Canada spokesman Brian Lang .They would also help make a decision on when to notify the public. The move is also expected to improve communications among parole officers and police, and speed up public notification, says Lang. There are allegations that didn't happen in the case of Bill Abramenko, the Vernon senior who was beaten to death during a home invasion in 2004. Eric Fish, charged with the 75-year-old Abramenko's death, had escaped from a halfway house in the Okanagan city six weeks earlier.No public warning was issued about Fish. Abramenko's daughter, Tracy Barth, says she hopes the new plan results in better communication with the public. "When you see it happen again and again, you wonder does anyone ever really understand how serious this is." Barth says she also wants tougher laws to punish escapees once they're caught, to dissuade them from leaving in the first place.
A Challenge to Tom Christensen
EDITORIAL Managing Editor David Wylie 
http://www.dailycourier.ca/ Aug 29
What does Vernon have to do to get money from the provincial government for its required $100 million water system? And where is Tom Christensen on this issue? While Okanagan MLAs Bill Barisoff and Rick Thorpe triumphantly trumpeted $40 million in long-term funding for an events centre in Penticton – which already houses a major convention centre – some of us in Vernon were left wondering how the provincial government can justify that commitment when B.C. Liberals have been ignoring Vernon’s pleas for cash to offset the cost of a major water infrastructure upgrade. The funding is an insult to North Okanagan residents, who will likely have to stomach a tax increase to pay for the critical fix that would separate residential and agricultural water, as well as install UV treatment equipment and a membrane to filter out smaller particles just to meet higher standards imposed by the Interior Health Authority – read: the provincial government. It’s time for the Liberals to get their heads out of the sand and their priorities in order. As one city councillor so eloquently stated, it seems that Vernon is like the pauper of the area begging cap in hand for a little change, please, sir.
Meanwhile, our local MLA, dubbed as “a rising star” by the Canadian Press, is bogged down in the controversial Ministry of Children and Family Development – a ministry that has spelled political death for MLAs before him.
Christensen is no stranger to the city’s water woes. He met with city council in June to hear their needs. After the meeting, Christensen told The Vernon Daily Courier he applauded the city for “thinking ahead” and not waiting for a major crisis before improving area water quality, and he added he’s confident that technical staff in Victoria “recognize how solid the plan is that Vernon had put forward.” Christensen also said he’d go back to Victoria swinging, advocating for funding for the water plan. “It’s important that there are infrastructure dollars to support that,” he said. “I’m intending to push the need.” So either Christensen has been too bogged down in his cabinet positions to advocate on behalf of his constituents or he’s been ineffective in pushing Vernon’s needs. No matter what the difficulties, we challenge Christensen to be standing in Vernon in the next month trumpeting at least $40 million in funding for our water system. If the province can cough up that kind of cash for a massive convention centre in Penticton, surely it can spend the same amount ensuring citizens in the North Okanagan have safe drinking water.
http://www.dailycourier.ca/ Aug 29What does Vernon have to do to get money from the provincial government for its required $100 million water system? And where is Tom Christensen on this issue? While Okanagan MLAs Bill Barisoff and Rick Thorpe triumphantly trumpeted $40 million in long-term funding for an events centre in Penticton – which already houses a major convention centre – some of us in Vernon were left wondering how the provincial government can justify that commitment when B.C. Liberals have been ignoring Vernon’s pleas for cash to offset the cost of a major water infrastructure upgrade. The funding is an insult to North Okanagan residents, who will likely have to stomach a tax increase to pay for the critical fix that would separate residential and agricultural water, as well as install UV treatment equipment and a membrane to filter out smaller particles just to meet higher standards imposed by the Interior Health Authority – read: the provincial government. It’s time for the Liberals to get their heads out of the sand and their priorities in order. As one city councillor so eloquently stated, it seems that Vernon is like the pauper of the area begging cap in hand for a little change, please, sir.
Meanwhile, our local MLA, dubbed as “a rising star” by the Canadian Press, is bogged down in the controversial Ministry of Children and Family Development – a ministry that has spelled political death for MLAs before him.Christensen is no stranger to the city’s water woes. He met with city council in June to hear their needs. After the meeting, Christensen told The Vernon Daily Courier he applauded the city for “thinking ahead” and not waiting for a major crisis before improving area water quality, and he added he’s confident that technical staff in Victoria “recognize how solid the plan is that Vernon had put forward.” Christensen also said he’d go back to Victoria swinging, advocating for funding for the water plan. “It’s important that there are infrastructure dollars to support that,” he said. “I’m intending to push the need.” So either Christensen has been too bogged down in his cabinet positions to advocate on behalf of his constituents or he’s been ineffective in pushing Vernon’s needs. No matter what the difficulties, we challenge Christensen to be standing in Vernon in the next month trumpeting at least $40 million in funding for our water system. If the province can cough up that kind of cash for a massive convention centre in Penticton, surely it can spend the same amount ensuring citizens in the North Okanagan have safe drinking water.
Defusing Vernon's "ticking time bomb"
By Vernon Daily Courier staff 
http://www.dailycourier.ca/
Hoping to avoid further contamination of Okanagan Lake, the City of Vernon is hoping to get more Okanagan Landing residents off septic and on to the sewer system. Municipal engineer Rob Dickinson said the city is working on a report to determine the level of phosphorous that is leaching into Okanagan Lake from the area’s septic fields. The most recent report which was completed in 1999 showed high levels along the lakeshore.Dickinson said high phosphorous levels coupled with increased nitrogen increases algae, decreases oxygen and kills fish. He said it’s not single septic fields on large lots that are the problem, it’s the concentration of so many systems in a single area. “These are working septic fields that are leaching into Okanagan Landing now,” he said. “We could be looking at the slow contamination of the lake.” While some septic fields could take hundreds or thousands of years to leach toward the lake, Dickinson said others could start contaminating the lake within the next decade. But fields that take 100 years to leach into the groundwater, would contaminate the water for another 100 years. “It’s like a ticking time bomb,” Dickinson said. With the possibility of a $2 million infrastructure grant to pay for sewer connections, he said the city is hurrying to complete an engineering plan to hook up five neighbourhoods. “If we complete an engineering study it gives us a better chance to get this grant,” he said. “Otherwise we would look at it in more detail. The grant is paid for by the federal government but the provincial government hands out the money. Dickinson said that the deadline for applications is in the fall, which is why the city is pressing ahead with design plans to hook up the Delcliffe,Whitepoint, Smith, Peters and Tronson specified areas to city sewers. The initial estimate of the cost of construction is $2.5 million but Dickinson said that number could be on the low end. Each area will be given the option to choose between the traditional system and the grinder system that went in along Okanagan Landing Road. If more areas choose the traditional system the costs would double, he said. “Hopefully, we can get a grant so these areas will look at a substantial subsidy,” he said. Vernon is not alone in its efforts to phase out septic systems around the lake. With so much opposition to the sewer line along Okanagan Landing Road this summer, Dickinson said the city’s next round of sewer construction will be to areas which have expressed an interest in getting connected. There is one other Okanagan community that has had the same challenges with septic contamination. Dickinson said that Kelowna has been similarly working hard to connect residents to sewer.
http://www.dailycourier.ca/Hoping to avoid further contamination of Okanagan Lake, the City of Vernon is hoping to get more Okanagan Landing residents off septic and on to the sewer system. Municipal engineer Rob Dickinson said the city is working on a report to determine the level of phosphorous that is leaching into Okanagan Lake from the area’s septic fields. The most recent report which was completed in 1999 showed high levels along the lakeshore.Dickinson said high phosphorous levels coupled with increased nitrogen increases algae, decreases oxygen and kills fish. He said it’s not single septic fields on large lots that are the problem, it’s the concentration of so many systems in a single area. “These are working septic fields that are leaching into Okanagan Landing now,” he said. “We could be looking at the slow contamination of the lake.” While some septic fields could take hundreds or thousands of years to leach toward the lake, Dickinson said others could start contaminating the lake within the next decade. But fields that take 100 years to leach into the groundwater, would contaminate the water for another 100 years. “It’s like a ticking time bomb,” Dickinson said. With the possibility of a $2 million infrastructure grant to pay for sewer connections, he said the city is hurrying to complete an engineering plan to hook up five neighbourhoods. “If we complete an engineering study it gives us a better chance to get this grant,” he said. “Otherwise we would look at it in more detail. The grant is paid for by the federal government but the provincial government hands out the money. Dickinson said that the deadline for applications is in the fall, which is why the city is pressing ahead with design plans to hook up the Delcliffe,Whitepoint, Smith, Peters and Tronson specified areas to city sewers. The initial estimate of the cost of construction is $2.5 million but Dickinson said that number could be on the low end. Each area will be given the option to choose between the traditional system and the grinder system that went in along Okanagan Landing Road. If more areas choose the traditional system the costs would double, he said. “Hopefully, we can get a grant so these areas will look at a substantial subsidy,” he said. Vernon is not alone in its efforts to phase out septic systems around the lake. With so much opposition to the sewer line along Okanagan Landing Road this summer, Dickinson said the city’s next round of sewer construction will be to areas which have expressed an interest in getting connected. There is one other Okanagan community that has had the same challenges with septic contamination. Dickinson said that Kelowna has been similarly working hard to connect residents to sewer.
The City isn't saying tough SHIT, its saying Grinded tough SHIT
Last night at Paddlewheel Park an overflow crowd of about 250 people, mostly residents of Okanagan Landing gathered to vent and plan a reaction to the claimed broken promises of amalgamation. The hall was lined with articles from newspapers, letters both to and from the City of Vernon and various studies etc done over the years stretching from the amalgamation promises of the early 90's right up to articles from local papers as recently as a couple of days ago. The promises of sewer at no cost were highlighted in yellow marker and there was a lot of yellow on that body of evidence.
I was there only from 7 to 8:30 and missed the second part of the meeting having to do with the renewal of license re the new sewer treatment plant but managed to hear most of the discussions, resolutions and votes on the main topic, sewer hookup, costs and perceived inadequacies of the proposed system. As I understood the resolutions that were finally passed the vote to just say 'NO' to the City of Vernon passed with only 4 dissenting votes, while the decision to hire a Vancouver Lawyer proficient in the municipal law to render a judgment on whether the residents had a case against the City was unanimously approved. Basically the residents are determined to hold the City to the promise of amalgamation that they would get sewer connection to a quality sewer system at no cost except for the usual connection fee that any resident would pay from the property line to the house.
I saw a video depicting the 6 and 8 inch connections leading to the Outback, Crystal Resort and Predator Ridge contrasted to the 2 inch lines that were shown in a connection for the residents in one of the affected areas. A demonstration of a T connection that illustrated pumped grinded shit flowing both ways instead of a proper connection that would make it flow only downstream towards the required destination, the sewer plant, was most fascinating, if true. There was anecdotal references to pipe laid in the soil without being bedded and covered in sand and the claim was that this would almost guarantee that the pipes would inevitably fail was voiced and accepted. The moderator Alan Hill quipped (tongue in cheek?) that this would ensure that we would get the effluent to go directly into the lake without using the Outfall Pipe.
When I had to leave the meeting was discussing the mechanics of who to make cheques out to for the lawyer and the committees that had to be set up to advance their position.
There was no mainstream Media present and there was only one City Staff member that I saw. Coun. Cunningham was the only member of Vernon Council present. The moderator observed that she was absent when the 6-0 vote not to listen to request for relief from the costs of grinder pumps etc. was passed in open Council.
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Don Quixote Note: A good layman's Frequently Asked Questions and Answers about Grinder Pumps can be found at http://www.wssc.dst.md.us/info/grinderpumpqa.cfm
Province providing $40 million for event centre (Penticton)
Aug 27 2006 http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/portals-code/list.cgi?paper=102&cat=23&id=716336&more=
"Penticton, you have won the lottery." That is what Mayor Jake Kimberley told several hundred invited guests after local MLAs Bill Barisoff and Rick Thorpe announced $40 million in long-term casino funding over 13 years for the South Okanagan Event Centre Friday afternoon. The additional provincial money complements $9.7 million granted last year. Friday's funding announcement came little more than three weeks before a two-question referendum will ask citizens whether they endorse the project with a total estimated cost of $56.1 million. While the announcements included several appeals to vote yes in the referendum which is still necessary because of the borrowing involved, many predicted the referendum would now pass comfortably. "If I see a no-vote, I will be embarrassed for that person," said Kimberley. CUPE 608 president Carolae Donoghue, whose organization is part of the Coalition for an Affordable Public Events Centre, did not return a call seeking comment. The coalition is concerned about the cost of the facility and the city's plan to hire a private management company to operate the new facility as well as Memorial Arena and the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre. Kimberley said the additional funding will make the project more than affordable. Barisoff said the province recognized the project had to be affordable in announcing the amount that appeared to surprise crowd members. Thorpe said Friday's news was the "most exciting" announcement in which he participated. Thorpe predicted the project will generate opportunities throughout the region. "Yes, it will be housed in Penticton. But it is for the entire South Okanagan," he told the crowd which included officials from throughout the region. Local developer Randy Kowalchuk, who is planning to build a hotel near the SOEC with his partner Robin Agur, said Friday's announcement is welcomed by the local business community. "It gives business confidence," he said. Actual construction will pump about $30 million into the local economy, with regional spin-offs reaching $135 million. Kimberley said the project is already generating interest from the investment community, adding that additional monies generated from the project will mean money for future city services and projects. Kimberley made that promise after questions about the loss of casino money for other projects. Funds announced Friday come to the city after it applied for Development Assistance Compensation available only to communities hosting destination casinos. The city initially applied for $20 million, partly under the assumption that Lake City Casinos would interrupt the revenue stream for its projects. But this is no longer case, said Jack Kler, treasurer, who helped identify the revenue source along with city administrator Leo den Boer. The city will use the funding to pay off the total of $39.2 million it plans to borrow for the project, with $36.1 million subject to voter approval through the Sept. 16 referendum. The additional casino money, combined with the original provincial grant and the city's $7.2 million contribution, will fund all capital costs for the South Okanagan Event Centre. Local residential owners will see their taxes rise $9 per $100,000 of assessed value spread over three years, Kimberley said, adding that the city may reduce that amount in the final year because of additional tax revenues from the facility. A who's-who of Penticton business, political and social leadership attended Friday's announcement. But Kimberley, who defeated David Perry in last year's municipal election, in part by raising questions about the centre, singled out Perry for his contribution to the project. "It was his vision to make it happen," said Kimberley, as he thanked Perry. Perry for his part said he was pleased to see the province recognize the project that way. "I'll feel better if I see a shovel in the ground," he said, jokingly.Perry, however, also noted that the federal government, represented by Conservative MP Stockwell Day, has not yet come forward with funding. That is disappointing, he said. "But the province is making up that shortfall, in a huge way," he said. Thorpe said the lack of federal funding did not play a role in the province's decision to increase its contribution. Day said in an earlier interview that he is continuing his efforts to secure funding and questioned suggestions that he is not doing enough for the riding.
"Penticton, you have won the lottery." That is what Mayor Jake Kimberley told several hundred invited guests after local MLAs Bill Barisoff and Rick Thorpe announced $40 million in long-term casino funding over 13 years for the South Okanagan Event Centre Friday afternoon. The additional provincial money complements $9.7 million granted last year. Friday's funding announcement came little more than three weeks before a two-question referendum will ask citizens whether they endorse the project with a total estimated cost of $56.1 million. While the announcements included several appeals to vote yes in the referendum which is still necessary because of the borrowing involved, many predicted the referendum would now pass comfortably. "If I see a no-vote, I will be embarrassed for that person," said Kimberley. CUPE 608 president Carolae Donoghue, whose organization is part of the Coalition for an Affordable Public Events Centre, did not return a call seeking comment. The coalition is concerned about the cost of the facility and the city's plan to hire a private management company to operate the new facility as well as Memorial Arena and the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre. Kimberley said the additional funding will make the project more than affordable. Barisoff said the province recognized the project had to be affordable in announcing the amount that appeared to surprise crowd members. Thorpe said Friday's news was the "most exciting" announcement in which he participated. Thorpe predicted the project will generate opportunities throughout the region. "Yes, it will be housed in Penticton. But it is for the entire South Okanagan," he told the crowd which included officials from throughout the region. Local developer Randy Kowalchuk, who is planning to build a hotel near the SOEC with his partner Robin Agur, said Friday's announcement is welcomed by the local business community. "It gives business confidence," he said. Actual construction will pump about $30 million into the local economy, with regional spin-offs reaching $135 million. Kimberley said the project is already generating interest from the investment community, adding that additional monies generated from the project will mean money for future city services and projects. Kimberley made that promise after questions about the loss of casino money for other projects. Funds announced Friday come to the city after it applied for Development Assistance Compensation available only to communities hosting destination casinos. The city initially applied for $20 million, partly under the assumption that Lake City Casinos would interrupt the revenue stream for its projects. But this is no longer case, said Jack Kler, treasurer, who helped identify the revenue source along with city administrator Leo den Boer. The city will use the funding to pay off the total of $39.2 million it plans to borrow for the project, with $36.1 million subject to voter approval through the Sept. 16 referendum. The additional casino money, combined with the original provincial grant and the city's $7.2 million contribution, will fund all capital costs for the South Okanagan Event Centre. Local residential owners will see their taxes rise $9 per $100,000 of assessed value spread over three years, Kimberley said, adding that the city may reduce that amount in the final year because of additional tax revenues from the facility. A who's-who of Penticton business, political and social leadership attended Friday's announcement. But Kimberley, who defeated David Perry in last year's municipal election, in part by raising questions about the centre, singled out Perry for his contribution to the project. "It was his vision to make it happen," said Kimberley, as he thanked Perry. Perry for his part said he was pleased to see the province recognize the project that way. "I'll feel better if I see a shovel in the ground," he said, jokingly.Perry, however, also noted that the federal government, represented by Conservative MP Stockwell Day, has not yet come forward with funding. That is disappointing, he said. "But the province is making up that shortfall, in a huge way," he said. Thorpe said the lack of federal funding did not play a role in the province's decision to increase its contribution. Day said in an earlier interview that he is continuing his efforts to secure funding and questioned suggestions that he is not doing enough for the riding.
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Silver Star Reservoir
by Kelly Hayes - Story: 21667August 30, 2006 / 4:39 pm http://www.castanet.net/edition/news-story-21667-2-.htm#21667
Silver Star Resort near Vernon is setting the stage for a big announcement -- but first it has to dig a hole. The resort is in the midst of addressing a water shortage problem by digging a massive reservoir at the top of the hill. CEO Ian Grant says water concerns have kept developers away, but that will soon change. "It's something that we've always had to watch out for at peak season and this will be the solution." Grant says the "solution" consists of a reservoir large enough to hold 240,000 cubic metres of water. That's eight times larger that the resort's current reservoir. Despite tearing up a large hole in the hill, Grant says there's been no opposition from environmentalists and the project has the blessing of the North Okanagan Regional District. Grant says the reservoir, slated to be complete before winter arrives, is only part of the solution. He says the resort is also building a water treatment facility and a pipeline to feed the water to its users. Cost of the project is estimated at $4 million and Grant says it will pave the way for a "big announcement" coming soon -- likely dealing with more development. Big White - Silver Star's big brother - dug up a similar reservoir last season -- also due to an increase in water demand.
Silver Star Resort near Vernon is setting the stage for a big announcement -- but first it has to dig a hole. The resort is in the midst of addressing a water shortage problem by digging a massive reservoir at the top of the hill. CEO Ian Grant says water concerns have kept developers away, but that will soon change. "It's something that we've always had to watch out for at peak season and this will be the solution." Grant says the "solution" consists of a reservoir large enough to hold 240,000 cubic metres of water. That's eight times larger that the resort's current reservoir. Despite tearing up a large hole in the hill, Grant says there's been no opposition from environmentalists and the project has the blessing of the North Okanagan Regional District. Grant says the reservoir, slated to be complete before winter arrives, is only part of the solution. He says the resort is also building a water treatment facility and a pipeline to feed the water to its users. Cost of the project is estimated at $4 million and Grant says it will pave the way for a "big announcement" coming soon -- likely dealing with more development. Big White - Silver Star's big brother - dug up a similar reservoir last season -- also due to an increase in water demand.
107.5 KISSFM NEWS SPOTS
http://www.1075kiss.com/whatson/news.jsp
All Talk--No Action
There's been more talk, but no progress, on the governance issue that's disrupted Greater Vernon Services and NORD for many months.Vernon council members recently met in-camera with lawyers and local administrators to discuss the matter.Councillor Barry Beardsell says there's still concerns with the proposed bylaw.Its just general (concerns) on the overall structure. The way everything works."Beardsell says the city has put off further consideration of the bylaw pending more discussion with municipal staff.The bylaw outlines what activities GVSC would not be responsible as a committee under NORD's umbrella.GVSC chairman Gary Corner feels NORD should table the bylaw and get on with other issues." In all honesty, if we can work together with each other--and I think things are working well now--then perhaps this just isn't the time to deal with that delegation bylaw." (Pete McIntyre Aug 30)
Coldstream Referendum Set For Fall
New fire halls in Coldstream and Lavington will be the subject of a four million dollar borrowing referendum in Coldstream this fall. Mayor Gary Corner says its time for residents to make a decision. "The timing is never good to go out and borrow four million dollars but these are two necessary buildings for the municipality to move into the future. Both these buildings are getting older and smaller and some of the new equipment just won't fit into it."A tentative date of November 18-th is set for for referendum.If approved, taxes would go up $70 to $80 a year for the average Coldstream homeowner. (Pete McIntyre Aug 30)
City Legal Costs Soar
Its costing the city of Vernon more to conduct its legal business.City council has approved an extra $50,000 in legal spending this year, bringing the total to $200,000.Finance committee chair Patrick Nicol says its due to a number of legal matters. "The review of the Subdivision Development bylaw, the water distribution options, the Official Community Plan review, changes to the Wasterwater Treatment operating certificate."Meantime, the city's staff costs are also going up with the approval of another full time staff member.A long range planning assistant with a salary of $65,000, will be hired to help with the upcoming review of the Official Community Plan. It will be a full time position but council agreed to take the word 'permanent' out of the motion. (Pete McIntyre Aug 30)
Growers Plant Seed For City Support
Okanagan orchardists are hoping local government will back their battle to get more funding from Ottawa and Victoria.B-C Fruit Growers Vice President Pierre Calissi told Vernon council, apple growers have suffered an 'economic tsunami' the last two years due to a price collapse. He says the federal program designed to help, doesn't adequately cover the losses.Calissi also had to defend the S-I-R program which has been criticized by some council members.He tells KISS FM, "There's been growing pains (with the moth reduction program) but what are the alternatives? We could throw all that money and technology away and then go back to chronic calender (chemical) spraying where in Washington state they spray up to 6 to 8 times of OP products, into the environment."The growers are requesting a letter of support from the city, which will be discussed at the next council meeting. (Pete McIntyre Aug 30)
Vernon ignored again
By Richard RolkeAug 30 2006 http://www.vernonmorningstar.com/
My first thought when I heard about Penticton landing $40 million for a multi-use facility was, "What about us?" At the same that the Peach City is dipping into casino cash for its event centre, Greater Vernon taxpayers are into year three of paying off $35 million that was borrowed for the master water plan. Now I don't begrudge Penticton for tapping into the provincial pot, but I certainly question Victoria's priorities. How is it that Penticton got that kind of money for a facility that will house the B.C. Hockey Hall of Fame and two ice rinks when Greater Vernon has been virtually shut out for something as important as drinking water? And this situation has occurred even with intense lobbying by the Greater Vernon Services Commission. "We've been begging and down on hand and knee," said Coun. Barry Beardsell. Of course, some provincial officials think they have been listening to Greater Vernon. "The province has provided money and any suggestion that Vernon is being ignored is simply wrong," said Tom Christensen, Okanagan Vernon MLA. Technically, Christensen is right, but that's about all. The reality is the provincial government didn't cough up cash for the master water plan until late 2005 and it was only for $4.5 million. When you're talking about $35 million in water upgrades, Victoria's contribution was a drop in the bucket. Christensen goes on to say that Greater Vernon's situation shouldn't be compared to Penticton. "It's completely different funding," Christensen said of Penticton's $40 million coming through casino funds over 13 years while Vernon would be seeking infrastructure grants for water and sewer upgrades. Once again Christensen is technically right, but the actual source of the money means absolutely nothing to Greater Vernon taxpayers who have been hit in the wallet hard over the last few years. And that's especially true for those who have seen their rates climb while ice tea-coloured water still comes out of the tap. And the sad part about all of this is it just isn't Penticton. Millions of dollars have been pumped into B.C. communities for everything from recreational facilities to water treatment plants. It's just Greater Vernon that's left sitting on the sidelines.
And the only apparent reason is that unlike other communities that let their infrastructure fall apart to the point of emergencies, Greater Vernon was proactive in planning for water system upgrades. But because some of the work went ahead or it appeared like everything was under control, senior government was unwilling to loosen the purse strings. Ultimately, I am left wondering why the provincial government isn't willing to make Greater Vernon a similar deal as Penticton? If an innovative funding model, such as gaming revenue, can be directed towards a sports facility, why not a water treatment plan? The one quote that caught my attention came from Penticton Mayor Jake Kimberley after hearing of the province's generosity. "Council wanted to make sure this project was affordable for the residents of Penticton," he said. Thanks to Victoria, Penticton taxpayers have got a major break when it comes to their proposed $56.1 million event centre. But inaction from the same government has left Greater Vernon residents holding the bag.
My first thought when I heard about Penticton landing $40 million for a multi-use facility was, "What about us?" At the same that the Peach City is dipping into casino cash for its event centre, Greater Vernon taxpayers are into year three of paying off $35 million that was borrowed for the master water plan. Now I don't begrudge Penticton for tapping into the provincial pot, but I certainly question Victoria's priorities. How is it that Penticton got that kind of money for a facility that will house the B.C. Hockey Hall of Fame and two ice rinks when Greater Vernon has been virtually shut out for something as important as drinking water? And this situation has occurred even with intense lobbying by the Greater Vernon Services Commission. "We've been begging and down on hand and knee," said Coun. Barry Beardsell. Of course, some provincial officials think they have been listening to Greater Vernon. "The province has provided money and any suggestion that Vernon is being ignored is simply wrong," said Tom Christensen, Okanagan Vernon MLA. Technically, Christensen is right, but that's about all. The reality is the provincial government didn't cough up cash for the master water plan until late 2005 and it was only for $4.5 million. When you're talking about $35 million in water upgrades, Victoria's contribution was a drop in the bucket. Christensen goes on to say that Greater Vernon's situation shouldn't be compared to Penticton. "It's completely different funding," Christensen said of Penticton's $40 million coming through casino funds over 13 years while Vernon would be seeking infrastructure grants for water and sewer upgrades. Once again Christensen is technically right, but the actual source of the money means absolutely nothing to Greater Vernon taxpayers who have been hit in the wallet hard over the last few years. And that's especially true for those who have seen their rates climb while ice tea-coloured water still comes out of the tap. And the sad part about all of this is it just isn't Penticton. Millions of dollars have been pumped into B.C. communities for everything from recreational facilities to water treatment plants. It's just Greater Vernon that's left sitting on the sidelines.And the only apparent reason is that unlike other communities that let their infrastructure fall apart to the point of emergencies, Greater Vernon was proactive in planning for water system upgrades. But because some of the work went ahead or it appeared like everything was under control, senior government was unwilling to loosen the purse strings. Ultimately, I am left wondering why the provincial government isn't willing to make Greater Vernon a similar deal as Penticton? If an innovative funding model, such as gaming revenue, can be directed towards a sports facility, why not a water treatment plan? The one quote that caught my attention came from Penticton Mayor Jake Kimberley after hearing of the province's generosity. "Council wanted to make sure this project was affordable for the residents of Penticton," he said. Thanks to Victoria, Penticton taxpayers have got a major break when it comes to their proposed $56.1 million event centre. But inaction from the same government has left Greater Vernon residents holding the bag.
Polson must top city's agenda
EDITORIAL Aug 30 2006 http://www.vernonmorningstar.com/Vernon Coun. Patrick Nicol's call to his colleagues for discussions regarding Polson Park couldn't have come at a more critical time for the city. The debate regarding the future of the park is of the utmost importance to a city that has seen its downtown core go through transition recently. The historic grandstands callously destroyed by vandals are yet another example of some of the social issues facing the community. For some residents, there's also the perception of questionable activities occurring within downtown. On top of this, the commercial focus of Vernon has largely shifted from downtown to the north end. That's why Vernon council must make it clear to the Greater Vernon Services Commission that Polson Park must remain an active area. Polson is large enough to handle a wide range of activities at any given time. A stroll through the park on a Sunday morning often reveals youth playing football, while families, tourists and the elderly enjoy the peaceful surroundings. GVSC officials have previously suggested the park should be passive, what ever that means. If that means removing the track and the football field, then you might as well also take out the water park and lawn bowling greens. No one will want to visit the park except for those who have ulterior motives in mind. Polson Park is a centrepiece that the city can use as part of its ongoing efforts to revitalize downtown. A significant effort has already occurred along 30th Avenue with infrastructure improvements, and Tolko Industries is showing leadership by constructing a new head office on 28th Street. There is no reason why the City of Vernon and the GVSC can't show that same kind of commitment to Polson Park.
Two pursue Conservative nomination
By RICHARD ROLKE Morning Star StaffAug 30 2006 http://www.vernonmorningstar.com/
Okanagan-Shuswap Conservatives now know who is seeking to represent them in the next federal electon. The party's riding association has confirmed Coldstream resident Dean Skoreyko as a candidate for the nomination against current
MP Colin Mayes."I've been working on the assumption it would happen," Skoreyko said of being accepted by the nomination committee. Because he is the incumbent MP, it was automatic that Mayes would be accepted as a candidate for the nomination. The nomination meeting will be held Sept. 6 in Salmon Arm and Sept. 7 in Vernon. That leaves little time to garner the support of party faithful. "I've been campaigning as much as I can up until now," said Skoreyko. Not that he has access to the party's membership list, his activities have escalated. "I've got brochures
going out to all of the members and I've set up coffee parties throughout the riding," said Skoreyko. Mayes is also taking steps to solidify his base in the party. "We're looking at the membership list to make sure people know they have a right to vote," he said. Because of the tight timeline, Mayes admits there are some challenges. "There's limited opportunities to hold meetings or to go out to the various committees so the members can meet the candidates." However, Mayes is confident that members will get all of the information they need during the nomination meetings.
Okanagan-Shuswap Conservatives now know who is seeking to represent them in the next federal electon. The party's riding association has confirmed Coldstream resident Dean Skoreyko as a candidate for the nomination against current
MP Colin Mayes."I've been working on the assumption it would happen," Skoreyko said of being accepted by the nomination committee. Because he is the incumbent MP, it was automatic that Mayes would be accepted as a candidate for the nomination. The nomination meeting will be held Sept. 6 in Salmon Arm and Sept. 7 in Vernon. That leaves little time to garner the support of party faithful. "I've been campaigning as much as I can up until now," said Skoreyko. Not that he has access to the party's membership list, his activities have escalated. "I've got brochures
going out to all of the members and I've set up coffee parties throughout the riding," said Skoreyko. Mayes is also taking steps to solidify his base in the party. "We're looking at the membership list to make sure people know they have a right to vote," he said. Because of the tight timeline, Mayes admits there are some challenges. "There's limited opportunities to hold meetings or to go out to the various committees so the members can meet the candidates." However, Mayes is confident that members will get all of the information they need during the nomination meetings.
Social Responsibility Fund will not be funded by NEW slots in 2006 !
After the Oct. 7/05 public hearing, Council passed the resolution that in my view allowed the zoning to be changed to allow a "Community Gaming Centre" in the Service Commercial Zone. Final adoption was passed Oct.24/05 with Coun. Beardsell and O'keefe opposed. http://www.vernon.ca/council/documents/2005/minutes_051024.pdf
As you can see from my older posting ( below) I queried whether this was the proper procedure and whether the Public Hearing was properly advertised etc. Because of my prodding that this resolution and process was not correct to permit Slot machines etc. in the Bingo Hall and at some of the Councillors insistence the matter was referred in late October 2005 to the B.C. Lottery Corp for clarification and ruling. Sometime in mid August 2006 the City FINALLY received word back from the B.C. Lottery Corp. They concluded that the procedure followed was not correct and that the Province had not initiated any request to sponser the Bingo Hall becoming a Community Gaming Centre. Therefore the City did not meet the Local Host approval process. In other words, back to square one for Slots in the Bingo Hall.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
FROM A PREVIOUS DON QUIXOTE POSTING OF Tuesday, October 11. 2005 Zoning amendment first step in slots coming to Bingo Hall
Despite a bylaw to add gaming facilities and delete bingo facilities in the Service Commercial Zone that passed third reading by a 4-2 vote, the move to add slot machines, a horse racing parlour and lounge at Fairweather Bingo is actually just at a starting point. This bylaw that must still pass 4th and final reading ALLOWS these type of activities to be carried on in this zone at a "Community Gaming Facility" It does not PERMIT these activities until approved by council and the province.
As you can see from my older posting ( below) I queried whether this was the proper procedure and whether the Public Hearing was properly advertised etc. Because of my prodding that this resolution and process was not correct to permit Slot machines etc. in the Bingo Hall and at some of the Councillors insistence the matter was referred in late October 2005 to the B.C. Lottery Corp for clarification and ruling. Sometime in mid August 2006 the City FINALLY received word back from the B.C. Lottery Corp. They concluded that the procedure followed was not correct and that the Province had not initiated any request to sponser the Bingo Hall becoming a Community Gaming Centre. Therefore the City did not meet the Local Host approval process. In other words, back to square one for Slots in the Bingo Hall.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
FROM A PREVIOUS DON QUIXOTE POSTING OF Tuesday, October 11. 2005 Zoning amendment first step in slots coming to Bingo Hall
Despite a bylaw to add gaming facilities and delete bingo facilities in the Service Commercial Zone that passed third reading by a 4-2 vote, the move to add slot machines, a horse racing parlour and lounge at Fairweather Bingo is actually just at a starting point. This bylaw that must still pass 4th and final reading ALLOWS these type of activities to be carried on in this zone at a "Community Gaming Facility" It does not PERMIT these activities until approved by council and the province.
Tuesday, August 29, 2006
CONSERVATIVE PARTY OF CANADA NOMINATION MEETINGS
CONSERVATIVE NOMINATION MEETINGS
CONTESTANTS
Colin Mayes . . .current Member of Parliament
Dean Skoreyko . . . challenger.
LOCATIONS, DATES AND TIMES.
Salmon Arm on September 6, 2006 at the Seniors Centre 109 auditorium , 170 5th Ave South East 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Vernon on September 7, 2006 at the Schubert Centre auditorium, 3505 30 th Ave 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
The following format will be the same for Salmon Arm and Vernon.
Polling station will be open from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM for balloting by members listed on the VOTER’S LIST as supplied by National Office. There will be no exceptions. The balloting process shall temporarily close at 6:00 PM and shall remain closed until the speeches and question period have been completed. (Approximately 1 hour.)
The nomination meeting will begin at 6:00 PM. 15 minute allotment for each contestant to speak. A 30 to 45 minute question period will follow the speeches.
The questions are to be in written format from the membership and given to the moderator who will pose the questions to the appropriate contestant. Forms to record the questions will be available at the door. At the end on the question period, balloting shall recommence and shall remain open until 9:00 PM or until the last voter has cast his/her ballot, which ever is the last to occur.
CONTESTANTS
Colin Mayes . . .current Member of Parliament
Dean Skoreyko . . . challenger.
LOCATIONS, DATES AND TIMES.
Salmon Arm on September 6, 2006 at the Seniors Centre 109 auditorium , 170 5th Ave South East 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Vernon on September 7, 2006 at the Schubert Centre auditorium, 3505 30 th Ave 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
The following format will be the same for Salmon Arm and Vernon.
Polling station will be open from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM for balloting by members listed on the VOTER’S LIST as supplied by National Office. There will be no exceptions. The balloting process shall temporarily close at 6:00 PM and shall remain closed until the speeches and question period have been completed. (Approximately 1 hour.)
The nomination meeting will begin at 6:00 PM. 15 minute allotment for each contestant to speak. A 30 to 45 minute question period will follow the speeches.
The questions are to be in written format from the membership and given to the moderator who will pose the questions to the appropriate contestant. Forms to record the questions will be available at the door. At the end on the question period, balloting shall recommence and shall remain open until 9:00 PM or until the last voter has cast his/her ballot, which ever is the last to occur.
Council display development direction at Monday's council meeting
After praising several developers for their proposals for low cost housing projects and Smart Growth projects, Council after a 2 week delay to check some background facts about the original application denied the variances required for the construction of a carport at a high end development along Okanagan Lake.
Dean Skoreyko officially declared a candidate !
For immediate release August 29 2006:
Dean Skoreyko has been officially declared a candidate in the Okanagan-Shuswap Conservative nomination race by the National Conservative Selection Committee. Skoreyko is the only candidate in British Columbia who has had his application approved to run as a challenger to an incumbent MP.
“Although I was confident that I would be accepted, it’s nice to have this behind me. It was a very lengthy and extremely comprehensive process this time and I’m thrilled to have passed with flying colours. It is very satisfying to have completed such a long procedure including the interview and background checks that no current MP has had to go through. With one week to go, I can concentrate fully on other aspects of my campaign now.” states Skoreyko.
For further information please contact:
Dean Skoreyko
260.1791
503.8365
skoreyko@telus.net
Dean Skoreyko has been officially declared a candidate in the Okanagan-Shuswap Conservative nomination race by the National Conservative Selection Committee. Skoreyko is the only candidate in British Columbia who has had his application approved to run as a challenger to an incumbent MP.
“Although I was confident that I would be accepted, it’s nice to have this behind me. It was a very lengthy and extremely comprehensive process this time and I’m thrilled to have passed with flying colours. It is very satisfying to have completed such a long procedure including the interview and background checks that no current MP has had to go through. With one week to go, I can concentrate fully on other aspects of my campaign now.” states Skoreyko.
For further information please contact:
Dean Skoreyko
260.1791
503.8365
skoreyko@telus.net
107.5 KISSFM NEWS SPOTS
http://www.1075kiss.com/whatson/news.jsp
Sewer Expansion The city of Vernon is moving ahead with plans to expand sewer service to more areas of Okanagan Landing.City council has approved $50 000 for pre-design engineering to determine the costs and systemsneeded to provide sewer to residents on Peters, Delcliffe, Smith, Whitepoint and Tronson roads.City staff say most of those homes are on septic systems, some of which are failing, causingdecreased water quality in Okanagan Lake.The city will be applying for grants from the provincial and federal governments which would be used to lower the costs for each affected home-owner.(Pete Mcintyre Aug 29-06)
Polson Park Plans At least one city councillor feels a case can be made for keeping a sports element to Polson Park.The park's grandstands, which were built in 1912, burned to the ground in a suspicious fire two weeks ago.Patrick Nicol says the idea of rebuilding more stands or using it for other sports-related activities should be considered, even though some local politicians say it should be left as is.Nicol says,'My opinion of the Greater Vernon Services is that they would like to see it passive. Only because over 15 years that's generally been their attempt. But the best part of this is that people can have some input into the discussion of what they think's right.'Even though the park's future is a GVSC decision, Nicol would like city council to discuss the issue and come up with a position.(Pete Mcintyre Aug. 29-06)
Liquor Store Concerns Vernon council wants some answers about the future plans for the city's public liquor stores.The BC Liquor Branch recently announced plans to close the stores in the Vernon Square and FruitUnion malls, and open a larger 'Signature' store in the Village Green Mall by next spring.Councillor Barry Beardsell calls it 'deplorable' there was no discussion with the city, considering recent efforts to keep the downtown area strong.Beardsell adds,'This is removing the last liquor store downtown and alot of the seniors, I know there areprivate stores, will on shop there."Beardsell is also concerned about the impact the moves will have on long-time liquor store staff. City council will be raising its concerns with M-L-A Tom Christensen.(Pete Mcintyre Aug 29-06)
No Social Responsibilty Fund from NEW slot machines in 2006
After the Oct. 7/05 public hearing, Council passed the resolution that it my view allowed the zoning to be changed to allow a "Community Gaming Centre" in the Service Commercial Zone Final adoption was passed Nov.24/05 with Coun. Beardsell and O'keefe opposed. http://www.vernon.ca/council/documents/2005/minutes_051024.pdf
As you can see from my older posting (reposted below) I queried whether this was the proper procedure and whether the Public Hearing was properly advertised etc. Because of my insistence that this resolution and process was not correct to permit Slot machines etc. in the Bingo Hall and at some of the opposing Coun. insistence the matter was referred in Late October 2005 to the B.C. Lottery Corp for clarification and ruling.
Sometime in mid August 2006 the City FINALLY received word back from the B.C. Lottery Corp. that the procedure followed was not followed correctly and that the Province had not initiated any request to convert the Bingo Hall to a Community Gaming Centre and therefore the City did not meet the Local Host approval process.
In other words, back to square one for Slots in the Bingo Hall.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
FROM A PREVIOUS DON QUIXOTE POSTING OF Tuesday, October 11. 2005 Zoning amendment first step in slots coming to Bingo Hall Despite a bylaw to add gaming facilities and delete bingo facilities in the Service Commercial Zone that passed third reading by a 4-2 vote, the move to add slot machines, a horse racing parlour and lounge at Fairweather Bingo is actually just at a starting point. This bylaw that must still pass 4th and final reading ALLOWS these type of activities to be carried on in this zone at a "Community Gaming Facility" It does not PERMIT these activities until approved by council and the province.
Which ad was the fairest to attact public input ???
2004
City Clerk, advised of the Notice of Public Hearing and advised that notice had been published in the Vernon Morning Star. 1. Fairweather Bingo Community Gaming Centre which will permit slot machines, Keno, lottery ticket licensed lounge and dining services, and an off-track betting lounge.
2005
To add "gaming facilities" and delete "bingo facilities" to subsection 10.11.2 Primary Uses of Section 10.11C11: Service Commercial Zone and delete the definition of "bingo facilities" from section 1: interpretation.
HISTORY OF THE COMMUNITY GAMING CENTRE APPLICATION:
On Oct 7, 2004 a Public Input session of council was held to: 1. Fairweather Bingo REQUEST to convert the Fairweather Bingo facility to a Community Gaming Centre which will permit slot machines, Keno, lottery ticket and licensed lounge and dining services, and an off-track betting lounge. This motion was amended by council to exclude the an off-track betting lounge and the motion was defeated by a 3-2 vote. (Beardsell, Okeefe, Harvey against, Nichol, Cochrane for) (MacGillivray absent and Hall not voting through a perceived conflict of interest.)
Requests to reconsider in the spring of 2005 were denied when none of the Councillors in majority would agree to bring back. Applicant was advised that he must wait 6 months from date of refusal before making an application again. APPLICANT MUST MAKE A RENEWED APPLICATION TO COUNCIL INDICATING WHAT HE WISHES TO HAVE COUNCIL SANCTION IN THIS LOCATION (SLOTS, HORSES, LOUNGE ETC.) AND COUNCIL CAN APPROVE OR DENY SOME OR ALL OF THE USES ASKED FOR AFTER A PUBLIC HEARING ON THIS MATTER. Any permitted uses then must be approved by the Province.
As you can see from my older posting (reposted below) I queried whether this was the proper procedure and whether the Public Hearing was properly advertised etc. Because of my insistence that this resolution and process was not correct to permit Slot machines etc. in the Bingo Hall and at some of the opposing Coun. insistence the matter was referred in Late October 2005 to the B.C. Lottery Corp for clarification and ruling.
Sometime in mid August 2006 the City FINALLY received word back from the B.C. Lottery Corp. that the procedure followed was not followed correctly and that the Province had not initiated any request to convert the Bingo Hall to a Community Gaming Centre and therefore the City did not meet the Local Host approval process.
In other words, back to square one for Slots in the Bingo Hall.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
FROM A PREVIOUS DON QUIXOTE POSTING OF Tuesday, October 11. 2005 Zoning amendment first step in slots coming to Bingo Hall Despite a bylaw to add gaming facilities and delete bingo facilities in the Service Commercial Zone that passed third reading by a 4-2 vote, the move to add slot machines, a horse racing parlour and lounge at Fairweather Bingo is actually just at a starting point. This bylaw that must still pass 4th and final reading ALLOWS these type of activities to be carried on in this zone at a "Community Gaming Facility" It does not PERMIT these activities until approved by council and the province.
Which ad was the fairest to attact public input ???
2004
City Clerk, advised of the Notice of Public Hearing and advised that notice had been published in the Vernon Morning Star. 1. Fairweather Bingo Community Gaming Centre which will permit slot machines, Keno, lottery ticket licensed lounge and dining services, and an off-track betting lounge.
2005
To add "gaming facilities" and delete "bingo facilities" to subsection 10.11.2 Primary Uses of Section 10.11C11: Service Commercial Zone and delete the definition of "bingo facilities" from section 1: interpretation.
HISTORY OF THE COMMUNITY GAMING CENTRE APPLICATION:
On Oct 7, 2004 a Public Input session of council was held to: 1. Fairweather Bingo REQUEST to convert the Fairweather Bingo facility to a Community Gaming Centre which will permit slot machines, Keno, lottery ticket and licensed lounge and dining services, and an off-track betting lounge. This motion was amended by council to exclude the an off-track betting lounge and the motion was defeated by a 3-2 vote. (Beardsell, Okeefe, Harvey against, Nichol, Cochrane for) (MacGillivray absent and Hall not voting through a perceived conflict of interest.)
Requests to reconsider in the spring of 2005 were denied when none of the Councillors in majority would agree to bring back. Applicant was advised that he must wait 6 months from date of refusal before making an application again. APPLICANT MUST MAKE A RENEWED APPLICATION TO COUNCIL INDICATING WHAT HE WISHES TO HAVE COUNCIL SANCTION IN THIS LOCATION (SLOTS, HORSES, LOUNGE ETC.) AND COUNCIL CAN APPROVE OR DENY SOME OR ALL OF THE USES ASKED FOR AFTER A PUBLIC HEARING ON THIS MATTER. Any permitted uses then must be approved by the Province.
Field of dreams
By Scott NeufeldTuesday, August 29, 2006, http://www.dailycourier.ca/article_485.php
Now that Vernon Minor Football has acquired enough equipment for the season, the focus is turning to finding a new home.Ray
Noble says he has the ideal solution. Noble, whose sons both grew up playing football locally, said the vacant Lakers Clubhouse would make a perfect facility for the association to store its gear and the former golf course would also be a great place for the city’s first full size football field.“You’ve already got a building that must be fairly stable because they were going to move the Elks in there,” he said. “Why not turn that into storage for minor football.”Noble said the idea came as a result of the Polson Park fire that burned the grandstand and destroyed most of the association’s equipment. He said that realizing they needed a field led him to the idea.“This all came about as a result of the grandstand burning and talking to a lady who had both sons affected by this,” he said.On the city’s official community plan, the Clubhouse is covered by a soccer field. Earlier this year the city offered to move the Elks Club to the building to acquire the entire Coldstream Hotel block but that move fell through.Noble said that with fields all over the city, the soccer association wouldn’t be hurt if the field was dedicated for football.Vernon minor football association president Keith Ridd said he had not previously heard of the idea but said the Marshall Field location would be a great fit. He said if the city was willing make the land available to them, the association could find the money to help fund the construction of the field.“That would be a great idea,” he said of re-locating to Marshall Field. “If the city came up with a plan to put Marshall Field aside I’m pretty sure we could come up with the partners.”Last week, Wendy’s Restaurants gave Vernon Minor Football $5,000, which will be used to build a proper football field. Ridd said the field is needed because there is no regulation sized field in the city – which prevents them from hosting provincial championships.The demand for football is increasing as more youngsters are strapping on the pads. The association has grown from four clubs last season to seven for 2006.Ridd said he’s particularly impressed by the Midget team (16 to 18 year olds) who petitioned the board until they agreed to put together a team this year. Despite the recent struggles to find jerseys and equipment for the start of the season this weekend, Ridd said the loss their equipment has raised the profile of local football and may be a boon in the long run.“It may end up being a silver lining to a very dark cloud,” he said. “We may end up with something better than we ever had as a result of this terrible starting point.”Several city planners were contacted but they were unavailable for comment. Council was scheduled to discuss Noble’s letter in Monday’s Committee of the Whole meeting but the meeting was postponed until after press time.
++++++++++++++++++
Don Quixote Note: Council decided to send Mr. Noble's letter on to GVSC to be part of their discussions about the future of Polson Park when the Committee of the Whole meeting was finally completed at 4:45 P.M..
Now that Vernon Minor Football has acquired enough equipment for the season, the focus is turning to finding a new home.Ray
Noble says he has the ideal solution. Noble, whose sons both grew up playing football locally, said the vacant Lakers Clubhouse would make a perfect facility for the association to store its gear and the former golf course would also be a great place for the city’s first full size football field.“You’ve already got a building that must be fairly stable because they were going to move the Elks in there,” he said. “Why not turn that into storage for minor football.”Noble said the idea came as a result of the Polson Park fire that burned the grandstand and destroyed most of the association’s equipment. He said that realizing they needed a field led him to the idea.“This all came about as a result of the grandstand burning and talking to a lady who had both sons affected by this,” he said.On the city’s official community plan, the Clubhouse is covered by a soccer field. Earlier this year the city offered to move the Elks Club to the building to acquire the entire Coldstream Hotel block but that move fell through.Noble said that with fields all over the city, the soccer association wouldn’t be hurt if the field was dedicated for football.Vernon minor football association president Keith Ridd said he had not previously heard of the idea but said the Marshall Field location would be a great fit. He said if the city was willing make the land available to them, the association could find the money to help fund the construction of the field.“That would be a great idea,” he said of re-locating to Marshall Field. “If the city came up with a plan to put Marshall Field aside I’m pretty sure we could come up with the partners.”Last week, Wendy’s Restaurants gave Vernon Minor Football $5,000, which will be used to build a proper football field. Ridd said the field is needed because there is no regulation sized field in the city – which prevents them from hosting provincial championships.The demand for football is increasing as more youngsters are strapping on the pads. The association has grown from four clubs last season to seven for 2006.Ridd said he’s particularly impressed by the Midget team (16 to 18 year olds) who petitioned the board until they agreed to put together a team this year. Despite the recent struggles to find jerseys and equipment for the start of the season this weekend, Ridd said the loss their equipment has raised the profile of local football and may be a boon in the long run.“It may end up being a silver lining to a very dark cloud,” he said. “We may end up with something better than we ever had as a result of this terrible starting point.”Several city planners were contacted but they were unavailable for comment. Council was scheduled to discuss Noble’s letter in Monday’s Committee of the Whole meeting but the meeting was postponed until after press time.++++++++++++++++++
Don Quixote Note: Council decided to send Mr. Noble's letter on to GVSC to be part of their discussions about the future of Polson Park when the Committee of the Whole meeting was finally completed at 4:45 P.M..
Park's future unclear
By Vernon Daily Courier staff Tuesday, August 29, 2006 http://www.dailycourier.ca/article_484.phpWith the structure having been burned to the ground last month, there was one final bit of procedure before the Polson Park grandstand could be laid to rest.Council voted unanimously on Monday to pull the grandstand from the heritage register because it no longer exists. Some councillors found it strange that the item was even on the agenda at all.Coun. Pat Cochrane said he was surprised to see the bylaw come before council so quickly when other, more important matters take months to put together.“I was absolutely astounded to see this on the agenda,” he said. “I am amazed we could put this bylaw together in a few days on such a non-issue when many other important bylaws take months.”Others like Coun. Barry Beardsell, joked that having the vote come before council so quickly shows how productive the city is.“This just demonstrates to NORD and Greater Vernon how efficient and effective we can be in changing a heritage designation because the building doesn’t exist,” he said.However, others took the opportunity to open a debate on the future of Polson Park. Coun. Patrick Nicol said that council needs to come up with a plan for the use of the park as soon as possible.“It’s a signature park for our city but also a signature park for the area,” he said. “I’m confident we will put this on the agenda in two weeks and discuss that before a decision is made by Greater Vernon Services.”Nicol said that the issues of the future of the park comes down to a debate between passive and non-passive uses. He said in the past residents have been very supportive of allowing non-passive uses such as sporting events to take place in the park.The city does have money that will be forthcoming as part of the destroyed grandstand’s insurance. Coun. Juliette Cunningham said that the city could receive $645,000 in insurance from the structure.However, in a later interview, Beardsell said the Vernon council is not the place that discussions about Polson Park should be initiated. He said Greater Vernon Services, which oversees the area’s master parks plan, should debate the use of the park and then pass it on to the city for approval.Beardsell added that the only way council will get the full insurance amount is if a grandstand is built at the site.“The emphasis being on replacement,” he said. “You really get cut down on what you receive if you don’t.”
Monday, August 28, 2006
Strange happenings at City Council Today.
- The decision on the GVSC Governance meeting was deferred to a future meeting after discussion that was released from In-Camera indicated that the staff and the City's Lawyers had some concerns about the matter.
- In a unrelated matter the Council approved the raising of the Legal Budget from $150,000 to $200,000 in 2006 as about $131,000 had already being spent.
- Released from In-Camera was the decision to turn over the Coldstream Parking Lot site to the VERNON LAND CORPS to investigate possible public - private partnerships.
- In an unrelated matter the Council did not make any appointments to the Land Corps despite applications closing July 14. There are 2 additional spots authorized as well as any resignations that may occur.
- Council authorized the hiring of a Long Range Planning Assistant to a full time position to facilitate the OCP timeline, hopefully by Christmas of 2007. The word permanent was struck from the original resolution.
- Council authorized the staff to proceed with a Sewer Grant application for 5 areas of the Okanagan Landing. The pre-design engineering for these areas was authorized at an estimated cost of $50,000.
- In a surprise move the S.I.R. question of how the City of Vernon could mitigate and leave the program if that was their desire was turned over to the Local MLA Tom Christensen to follow up and hopefully report back.
- It was revealed that the Polson Grandstand was insured for replacement value of $645,000. This should prove interesting if the GVSC decided not to replace the struture but opts for another addition to Park or nothing at all to go with their desire for a passive park. Insurance companies tend to settle at a lesser value when there is replacement.
- In another related move the Polson Park Grandstand was removed from the Heritage List.
SUN FM NEWS
Spallumcheen seats filled 
http://www.vernon.thesun.net/node/402152
A by-election was held over the weekend. Carolyn Farris, Todd York were voted in and councilor Dave Brew is back. The election was a bit out of the ordinary this year as there were two separate ballots for the Council spots. Rebecca Barton Standard Radio News
No Date for the CHBC Trial. http://www.vernon.thesun.net/node/402091
The contempt of court charges against CHBC have been pushed back until September 29th. That's when the Crown and the television station's lawyers will fix a date on the trial concerning a story that aired on CHBC on June 29th about the Ronda Black murder trial. The Crown argues that CHBC went against the media ban by showing an undercover police officer walking to the courthouse. Both the Crown and Justice Mary Humphries have requested the charges be dealt with after the Ronda Black trial.... which has already gone 3 months. Whitney Deane - Standard Radio News
http://www.vernon.thesun.net/node/402152A by-election was held over the weekend. Carolyn Farris, Todd York were voted in and councilor Dave Brew is back. The election was a bit out of the ordinary this year as there were two separate ballots for the Council spots. Rebecca Barton Standard Radio News
No Date for the CHBC Trial. http://www.vernon.thesun.net/node/402091
The contempt of court charges against CHBC have been pushed back until September 29th. That's when the Crown and the television station's lawyers will fix a date on the trial concerning a story that aired on CHBC on June 29th about the Ronda Black murder trial. The Crown argues that CHBC went against the media ban by showing an undercover police officer walking to the courthouse. Both the Crown and Justice Mary Humphries have requested the charges be dealt with after the Ronda Black trial.... which has already gone 3 months. Whitney Deane - Standard Radio News
Orchard growers appeal for city’s help
By David Skelhon Monday, August 28, 2006 http://www.dailycourier.ca/article_482.php
The BC Fruit Growers Association (BCFGA) will be updating Vernon city council today on developments in the industry. The association’s president, Joe Sardinha, said it was important to obtain the city’s support because of the crisis the industry is experiencing. So far, he said, 
“We’ve haven’t got anywhere with provincial and federal assistance.”“We need some bridge assistance funding,” said Sardinha. “Without that we stand to lose acreage and producers.”The problem, he explains, relates to the 2004 crop year where there was a rise in imports from Washington and that resulted in a 40 to 50 per cent decline in income for Okanagan growers.Income from the 2005 crop was slightly better but, “Two years of very poor returns have left apple growers pondering their future.” “The (Government’s) Income Stabilization Program gave $7.5 million for 2004 on a $24.5 million loss . . . it should have produced $15 – 18 million,” he said.Sardinha anticipates this year’s crop will be, “down 25 per cent on due to hail damage.”He said the BCFGA wants Vernon to show its support by sending letters to Premier Gordon Campbell and federal agriculture minister Chuck Strahl.Today’s presentation will also include issues that are of valley-wide concern, but are dealt with differently according to the municipality. They include the supply of affordable and adequate water, starling control, the Sterile Insect Release Program, and farm labour housing. Sardinha said there needs to be a consistent, valley wide approach to these issues.In the case of water supply, he explained that there are about 65 different water purveyors in the valley and the BCFGA endorses the approach taken by the Okanagan Basin Water Board. “Resources are finite and there has to be a balance between urban and agricultural demands. Trees cannot be managed without water in summer.” Currently, he said, it costs producers between $60 and $150 per acre to irrigate their land, which is not competitive with producers elsewhere. “We would like the municipalities to support basin-wide policy.”Starlings are also a problem for growers, Sardinha said, and many of these birds roost in urban areas and in particular in municipal buildings. “There needs to be a valley-wide starling control initiative . . . starlings are an invasive species that compete heavily with native song-birds.” Their presence requires the use of propane cannons to keep them away from orchards.At one-10th the size of the Washington industry, the Okanagan industry is much smaller. However, Sardinha said the Okanagan produces 30 per cent of the Canadian crop. At one time the Okanagan was a bigger producer than Washington State but after the Columbia River Treaty was signed, guaranteeing Washington a stable water supply, the situation reversed and now Washington is a much larger producer than the Okanagan.Asked whether he is optimistic about the future of the industry, Sardinha replied, “Only if we see a commitment from government.”
The BC Fruit Growers Association (BCFGA) will be updating Vernon city council today on developments in the industry. The association’s president, Joe Sardinha, said it was important to obtain the city’s support because of the crisis the industry is experiencing. So far, he said, 
“We’ve haven’t got anywhere with provincial and federal assistance.”“We need some bridge assistance funding,” said Sardinha. “Without that we stand to lose acreage and producers.”The problem, he explains, relates to the 2004 crop year where there was a rise in imports from Washington and that resulted in a 40 to 50 per cent decline in income for Okanagan growers.Income from the 2005 crop was slightly better but, “Two years of very poor returns have left apple growers pondering their future.” “The (Government’s) Income Stabilization Program gave $7.5 million for 2004 on a $24.5 million loss . . . it should have produced $15 – 18 million,” he said.Sardinha anticipates this year’s crop will be, “down 25 per cent on due to hail damage.”He said the BCFGA wants Vernon to show its support by sending letters to Premier Gordon Campbell and federal agriculture minister Chuck Strahl.Today’s presentation will also include issues that are of valley-wide concern, but are dealt with differently according to the municipality. They include the supply of affordable and adequate water, starling control, the Sterile Insect Release Program, and farm labour housing. Sardinha said there needs to be a consistent, valley wide approach to these issues.In the case of water supply, he explained that there are about 65 different water purveyors in the valley and the BCFGA endorses the approach taken by the Okanagan Basin Water Board. “Resources are finite and there has to be a balance between urban and agricultural demands. Trees cannot be managed without water in summer.” Currently, he said, it costs producers between $60 and $150 per acre to irrigate their land, which is not competitive with producers elsewhere. “We would like the municipalities to support basin-wide policy.”Starlings are also a problem for growers, Sardinha said, and many of these birds roost in urban areas and in particular in municipal buildings. “There needs to be a valley-wide starling control initiative . . . starlings are an invasive species that compete heavily with native song-birds.” Their presence requires the use of propane cannons to keep them away from orchards.At one-10th the size of the Washington industry, the Okanagan industry is much smaller. However, Sardinha said the Okanagan produces 30 per cent of the Canadian crop. At one time the Okanagan was a bigger producer than Washington State but after the Columbia River Treaty was signed, guaranteeing Washington a stable water supply, the situation reversed and now Washington is a much larger producer than the Okanagan.Asked whether he is optimistic about the future of the industry, Sardinha replied, “Only if we see a commitment from government.”
Sunday, August 27, 2006
Seven Dwarfs respond to Pluto's downgrade to Dwarf !
Disney's Seven Dwarfs have issued a statement in response to the news. It reads, "Although we think it's DOPEY that Pluto has been downgraded to a dwarf planet, which has made some people GRUMPY and others just SLEEPY, we are not BASHFUL in saying we would be HAPPY if Disney's Pluto would join us as an eighth dwarf. We think this is just what the DOC ordered and is nothing to SNEEZE at."
CITY TAKES OUT AD TO REFUTE DUMPING CLAIM
P.7 Of The Morning Star Sunday Aug. 27, 2006. 3/4 page ad. from the City of Vernon entitled ' FACTS ABOUT WATER RECLAMATION IN VERNON'
Is this ad necessary? Why should we spend $700 or more (?) on an ad that says that there is no substantial change and that we have only discharged into the lake once in last 20 years and we never will unless there is an emergency. Oh, yeah our fecal level is 50 colonies compared to swimming water's accepted level of 200 fecal colonies. Surely we could have just published the ad on the City's website.
In 2005 VERNON spent $85,796.38 on ads in BLACK PRESS GROUP (Morningstar) and $60,102.50 in 2004. While some ads are required by provincial legislation other ads are nothing but Blatant promotion and are unnecessary ! The City has started to advertise in both local papers with regards to legal type ads, but the promotional releases seemed confined only to the Morningstar as it has the wider circulation, I guess. It will be interesting to see the total dollars spent this year on advertising!!
Related ARTICLES AT:
http://vernonblog.blogspot.com/2006/08/city-challenges-dumping-claims.html
http://vernonblog.blogspot.com/2006/08/mislead-over-sewage.html
http://vernonblog.blogspot.com/2006/08/vernon-and-districts-taxpayers.html
Is this ad necessary? Why should we spend $700 or more (?) on an ad that says that there is no substantial change and that we have only discharged into the lake once in last 20 years and we never will unless there is an emergency. Oh, yeah our fecal level is 50 colonies compared to swimming water's accepted level of 200 fecal colonies. Surely we could have just published the ad on the City's website.
In 2005 VERNON spent $85,796.38 on ads in BLACK PRESS GROUP (Morningstar) and $60,102.50 in 2004. While some ads are required by provincial legislation other ads are nothing but Blatant promotion and are unnecessary ! The City has started to advertise in both local papers with regards to legal type ads, but the promotional releases seemed confined only to the Morningstar as it has the wider circulation, I guess. It will be interesting to see the total dollars spent this year on advertising!!
Related ARTICLES AT:
http://vernonblog.blogspot.com/2006/08/city-challenges-dumping-claims.html
http://vernonblog.blogspot.com/2006/08/mislead-over-sewage.html
http://vernonblog.blogspot.com/2006/08/vernon-and-districts-taxpayers.html
Time for this ride to stop
http://www.dailycourier.ca/ EDITORIAL AUG 25 by Scott Neufeld
The merry-go-round that is the debate on local government issues
is set for another go-round. On the agenda at Monday’s Vernon city council meeting is the North Okanagan Regional District’s bylaw amendment to clip the wings of the Greater Vernon Services Commission. The debate stems from whether or not the sub-regional commission, which looks after water and parks, has scampered out of the yard and needs to be put on a shorter leash. If the issue sounds a little bit familiar it should. Most local politicians at this point are on the verge of losing track of how many times they’ve had to eyeball the amendment. The last time city council debated the proposed bylaw change was on June 26 where local leaders voted down the bylaw. This thumbs down came shortly after the regional district, including its three Vernon members, had unanimously given the changes their seal of approval. Earlier this month, the district sent out amendments to the proposed bylaw amendments for each local council to consider. These recommended alterations to the recommended alterations are what Vernon councillors will discuss on Monday. If tracing the history of the bylaw amendments is tough, try plotting the positions of Vernon’s politicians. While Coun. Barry Beardsell has been steadfast in his opposition to any changes to the mandate of Greater Vernon Services, Mayor Wayne Lippert seems to have bounced back and forth on the issue. At both regional district meetings and city council meetings the mayor seems to follow the air current and vote with the general consensus. However, rather than highlight a weakness, Lippert’s movement on the issue shows a real willingness to compromise and find a common ground.In the past the mayor has stated that he would be willing to give up some ground if it meant finding an agreement that works for everyone. Butmoments later he will let slip that Vernon is still ready to pull out of Greater Vernon Services if the body no longer suits the city. These statements appear to be contradictory but they may show that there are limits to Lippert’s and Vernon council’s willingness to bend.What has become clear as the future of Greater Vernon Services is debated, is that the municipalities outside of Greater Vernon are tired of dealing with the issues surrounding the commission. This latest debate has dragged on far too long with no compromise yet in sight. What is needed at this point are politicians with ideas on how to break the stalemate rather than those who base their actions on past grievances and take a hard line stance.There are far more important issues that are being pushed to the side as each municipality in the district discusses the issue of Greater Vernon Services. Let’s hope those issues can take their rightful place on the council agenda because this merry-go-round isn’t fun anymore.
The merry-go-round that is the debate on local government issues
is set for another go-round. On the agenda at Monday’s Vernon city council meeting is the North Okanagan Regional District’s bylaw amendment to clip the wings of the Greater Vernon Services Commission. The debate stems from whether or not the sub-regional commission, which looks after water and parks, has scampered out of the yard and needs to be put on a shorter leash. If the issue sounds a little bit familiar it should. Most local politicians at this point are on the verge of losing track of how many times they’ve had to eyeball the amendment. The last time city council debated the proposed bylaw change was on June 26 where local leaders voted down the bylaw. This thumbs down came shortly after the regional district, including its three Vernon members, had unanimously given the changes their seal of approval. Earlier this month, the district sent out amendments to the proposed bylaw amendments for each local council to consider. These recommended alterations to the recommended alterations are what Vernon councillors will discuss on Monday. If tracing the history of the bylaw amendments is tough, try plotting the positions of Vernon’s politicians. While Coun. Barry Beardsell has been steadfast in his opposition to any changes to the mandate of Greater Vernon Services, Mayor Wayne Lippert seems to have bounced back and forth on the issue. At both regional district meetings and city council meetings the mayor seems to follow the air current and vote with the general consensus. However, rather than highlight a weakness, Lippert’s movement on the issue shows a real willingness to compromise and find a common ground.In the past the mayor has stated that he would be willing to give up some ground if it meant finding an agreement that works for everyone. Butmoments later he will let slip that Vernon is still ready to pull out of Greater Vernon Services if the body no longer suits the city. These statements appear to be contradictory but they may show that there are limits to Lippert’s and Vernon council’s willingness to bend.What has become clear as the future of Greater Vernon Services is debated, is that the municipalities outside of Greater Vernon are tired of dealing with the issues surrounding the commission. This latest debate has dragged on far too long with no compromise yet in sight. What is needed at this point are politicians with ideas on how to break the stalemate rather than those who base their actions on past grievances and take a hard line stance.There are far more important issues that are being pushed to the side as each municipality in the district discusses the issue of Greater Vernon Services. Let’s hope those issues can take their rightful place on the council agenda because this merry-go-round isn’t fun anymore.
NORD VS. GVSC THE DEALBREAKER AND THE COMPROMISE ?
CLICK ON CARTOONS TO ENLARGE
AND FURTHER, that Council does not support the Limitations on Delegation, Section 7, items (a) through (j)Albertans find home away from home in B.C.
From http://www.canada.com/topics/news/national/story.html?id=f0945a27-a9ca-4d31-95e2-46690244728a&k=21037
Albertans have purchased 2,219 properties in B.C. worth more than $650 million in the first six months of 2006, ahead of the 2005 pace, and drastically more than buyers from elsewhere in Canada and the United States, according to Landcor's recently released property sales report. Ontario, in comparison, ranks second with 381 properties worth more than $200 million, followed by California (188 properties, nearly $82 million) and Washington state (98 properties, more than $47 million).
Edmonton businessman Jay Champigny owns a 2,350-square-foot house on a 7,000-square-foot lot worth $1.75 million in the relatively undeveloped Pender Harbour on B.C.'s Sunshine Coast, but he's never actually seen it."I've seen pictures, but I've never been there," said Champigny. "I bought it sight unseen. But I know B.C. and I know property, and the feedback I got from people I trust said Pender Harbour is it." Often, Nielsen said, Albertans aren't content to stop at single properties, and Champigny is proof. Before securing the Pender Harbour unit, Champigny bought a vacation home in Vernon, B.C.'s, Outback resort, and is about to nab a third at Lakestone, between Kelowna, B.C., and Vernon. "I'm spending money now because it may not be affordable 10 years from now, and I'm quite happy to spend my six, seven weeks a year out at those properties," said Champigny, who expects Vancouver's 2010 Winter Olympics will boost the value of his Pender Harbour property to $3.5 million-plus.
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Albertans have purchased 2,219 properties in B.C. worth more than $650 million in the first six months of 2006, ahead of the 2005 pace, and drastically more than buyers from elsewhere in Canada and the United States, according to Landcor's recently released property sales report. Ontario, in comparison, ranks second with 381 properties worth more than $200 million, followed by California (188 properties, nearly $82 million) and Washington state (98 properties, more than $47 million).
Edmonton businessman Jay Champigny owns a 2,350-square-foot house on a 7,000-square-foot lot worth $1.75 million in the relatively undeveloped Pender Harbour on B.C.'s Sunshine Coast, but he's never actually seen it."I've seen pictures, but I've never been there," said Champigny. "I bought it sight unseen. But I know B.C. and I know property, and the feedback I got from people I trust said Pender Harbour is it." Often, Nielsen said, Albertans aren't content to stop at single properties, and Champigny is proof. Before securing the Pender Harbour unit, Champigny bought a vacation home in Vernon, B.C.'s, Outback resort, and is about to nab a third at Lakestone, between Kelowna, B.C., and Vernon. "I'm spending money now because it may not be affordable 10 years from now, and I'm quite happy to spend my six, seven weeks a year out at those properties," said Champigny, who expects Vancouver's 2010 Winter Olympics will boost the value of his Pender Harbour property to $3.5 million-plus.
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Region rallies over hospital
http://www.vernonmorningstar.com/ Aug 27 2006 EDITORIAL
Hopefully the Ministry of Health and the Interior Health Authority are paying attention and fully realize there is a growing sense of concern about conditions at Vernon Jubilee Hospital. Lake Country council added its voice to the issue Thursday, joining Coldstream, Vernon, Lumby, Armstrong and Enderby councils. While the name may say Vernon, the hospital is a lifeline for thousands of residents within this vast region. The perception is that while physicians, nurses and support staff do their best, resources are stretched to the extreme. "There's concern about overcrowding and that the hospital is falling apart," said Noreen Guenther, Lake Country councillor. IHA and the ministry claim they are taking action but it doesn't seem to be enough. Planning is under way for a new tower that would house the emergency department and other services. But other key activities would remain in the existing hospital, which is aging and limited in terms of upgrades. IHA claims the tower is just the first step towards replacing the hospital, and we would hope so. However, if bureaucracy has shown us anything, phase ones of projects often become the final phase. We, as a region, need assurances that the tower isn't just a Band-Aid and that a long-term solution will occur. And that solution better take into account the growing population base, and especially the large presence of seniors. Why build a tower with a 25-year lifespan when you know it will likely be used for 40 or 50? A unified voice is gaining strength in the North Okanagan and it's time IHA and the Ministry of Health started listening.
Vernon Bank Robbed
by Wayne Moore - Story: 21549August 26, 2006 / 11:00 am http://www.castanet.net/edition/news-story-21549-2-.htm#21549
Vernon RCMP are looking for a lone male who robbed the Bank of Nova Scotia on 30th Ave Friday afternoon. RCMP say a man approached a teller and produced a note demanding cash. The teller handed over an undisclosed amount of cash. The man fled on foot. He was last seen heading north on 33rd St. from the bank. The man is described as Caucasian, with tanned skin, about 5'7" in his late 30's or early 40's. He was wearing a dark coloured golf shirt with white stripes on the shoulders, black pants, a navy blue ball cap and wrap around sunglasses. If you have any information, you're asked to contact Vernon RCMP or Crime Stoppers.
Vernon RCMP are looking for this man in connection with the robbery of the Bank of Nova Scotia Friday afternoon in Vernon. (Photo: RCMP)
FINAL RESULTS AUG 26 For First 3 COUNCIL MEMBERS
Saturday, August 26, 2006
Airport Master Plan and other financial Questions
http://www.vernonairport.com/masterplan/index.html
The Airport Master Plan is currently under review with completion expected in 2007.
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Don Quixote Note: The original Master Airport Plan has been taken down from the Airport Website. It was announced at their annual meeting in early summer they would be proceeding with a new Master Plan with a comprehensive study on the economics and long term business feasibility of extending the runway. Completion of plan appears to be in 2007.
In 2004 and 2005 the City of Vernon Taxpayers transferred $500,000 ($250,000 each year) for a runway extension reserve. As at Dec.31/2005 the Airport Corp had $414,933 in the bank. They appear to have used some of these reserve funds to finance their 2004 deficit of $34,643 and their 2005 deficit of $63,855. (The operational subsidies for 2005 was $105,864 and $76,000 in 2004}
The City is scheduled to transfer another $250,000 to the Airport Reserve account sometime(?) in 2006 and a further $300,000 in 2007.
I am still awaiting an answer of whether it would not be more prudent to keep this money on the City's books in an Airport Reserve. The City has demonstrated their ability to earn more interest on excess funds than the Airport has. Also the money would be readily available to return to the taxpayers if the Airport Expansion did not proceed.
As this was just one of the many questions * that I asked at the City's Annual Report input session on June 27 I am expecting a reply shortly. I have had a brief conversation with the City Treasurer last week that indicated he was completing a response to be given to the Council for all my questions. I was expecting to see the responses at this weeks Council meeting but it does not appear on the Agenda. Perhaps it is their intention to discuss it at the Finance Committee on Thursday and forward it on to Council for the following Council meeting.
*http://vernonblog.blogspot.com/2006/07/don-quixote-at-annual-report-public_25.html
http://vernonblog.blogspot.com/2006/07/don-quixote-at-annual-report-public.html
http://vernonblog.blogspot.com/2006/07/will-dva-chamber-of-commerce-or-city.html
GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCES $40 MILLION FOR EVENT CENTRE (PENTICTON)
Penticton Okanagan MLA Bill Barisoff and Kelwona-Westside MLA Rick Thorpe joined Penticton Mayor Jake Kimberley to announce $40 million in funding for the proposed South Okanagan Events Centre
Gov. B.c. news
PENTICTON – The Province has approved $40 million in long-term funding to support the proposed South Okanagan Events Centre, MLAs Bill Barisoff and Rick Thorpe announced today. “This Events Centre will house world-class sports and cultural events, and provide top-notch leisure facilities for residents in the South Okanagan,” said Penticton-Okanagan Valley MLA Bill Barisoff. “It will also provide a single, year-round, multi-use facility to enhance the region’s reputation as a stellar destination.” The provincial government will designate gaming revenues over the next decade to the Events Centre, in addition to a $9.7-million provincial grant from the Major Regional Sports Facilities Initiative announced earlier this year. The project is being made possible through a funding arrangement between the Province, the City of Penticton, the local casino company, Lake City Casinos Ltd., and the British Columbia Lottery Corporation.
The proposed facility includes:
A 5,100-seat, multi-purpose event centre with an Olympic-size ice rink.
A 475-seat community facility with an NHL-size ice rink.
A home for the BC Hockey Hall of Fame.
An indoor, year-round walking track, potential health and wellness clinics and a restaurant.
Galleria linking the existing Penticton Trade and Convention Centre and the Memorial Arena.
1,250 parking stalls, including 12 stalls for people with disabilities.
Architectural design reflecting First Nations culture with emphasis on use of B.C. wood products.
“This is a great example of how gaming revenue benefits British Columbia communities,” said Small Business and Revenue Minister Rick Thorpe, MLA for Okanagan-Westside. “The project is expected to create 900 person-years of employment during two years of construction. About $30 million will be spent in the local community during construction, creating economic growth for the region. Yes, we are creating opportunities for Penticton, the South Okanagan, our children and grandchildren.” Penticton Mayor Jake Kimberley said, “Council wanted to make sure this project was affordable for the residents of Penticton. With the co-operation of the Province and Lake City Casinos Ltd., we can achieve that goal.” The Events Centre will attract more non-resident convention delegates, who will spend an estimated $275 per day into the local economy. In total, the Events Centre is expected to have an annual additional regional economic impact of $25 million.
Gov. B.c. news
PENTICTON – The Province has approved $40 million in long-term funding to support the proposed South Okanagan Events Centre, MLAs Bill Barisoff and Rick Thorpe announced today. “This Events Centre will house world-class sports and cultural events, and provide top-notch leisure facilities for residents in the South Okanagan,” said Penticton-Okanagan Valley MLA Bill Barisoff. “It will also provide a single, year-round, multi-use facility to enhance the region’s reputation as a stellar destination.” The provincial government will designate gaming revenues over the next decade to the Events Centre, in addition to a $9.7-million provincial grant from the Major Regional Sports Facilities Initiative announced earlier this year. The project is being made possible through a funding arrangement between the Province, the City of Penticton, the local casino company, Lake City Casinos Ltd., and the British Columbia Lottery Corporation.
The proposed facility includes:
A 5,100-seat, multi-purpose event centre with an Olympic-size ice rink.
A 475-seat community facility with an NHL-size ice rink.
A home for the BC Hockey Hall of Fame.
An indoor, year-round walking track, potential health and wellness clinics and a restaurant.
Galleria linking the existing Penticton Trade and Convention Centre and the Memorial Arena.
1,250 parking stalls, including 12 stalls for people with disabilities.
Architectural design reflecting First Nations culture with emphasis on use of B.C. wood products.
“This is a great example of how gaming revenue benefits British Columbia communities,” said Small Business and Revenue Minister Rick Thorpe, MLA for Okanagan-Westside. “The project is expected to create 900 person-years of employment during two years of construction. About $30 million will be spent in the local community during construction, creating economic growth for the region. Yes, we are creating opportunities for Penticton, the South Okanagan, our children and grandchildren.” Penticton Mayor Jake Kimberley said, “Council wanted to make sure this project was affordable for the residents of Penticton. With the co-operation of the Province and Lake City Casinos Ltd., we can achieve that goal.” The Events Centre will attract more non-resident convention delegates, who will spend an estimated $275 per day into the local economy. In total, the Events Centre is expected to have an annual additional regional economic impact of $25 million.
Friday, August 25, 2006
Canadian Blogging Soldier back online.
http://vernonblog.blogspot.com/2006/08/soldier-ordered-to-stop-blogging.html
The Soldier who was ordered to stop blogging from Afghanistan is BACK ONLINE at http://miafghanistan.blogspot.com/.
He was required to list his blog with the Canadian Army so that it could be monitored for mission critical details. It is best summed up from a section of Matt's posting of 24Aug06:
The Army requires people to list their blogs so that they may keep track of information that may possibly be mission critical. Anything that may jeopardize the mission can't make it online (for good reason) and anything that would put soldiers lives, or the lives of their friends and family back home, at risk is best kept for the soldiers daily journal. These are secrets even better left in their heads, maybe to be released years later when it is alright to tell people of their stories.
The Soldier who was ordered to stop blogging from Afghanistan is BACK ONLINE at http://miafghanistan.blogspot.com/.
He was required to list his blog with the Canadian Army so that it could be monitored for mission critical details. It is best summed up from a section of Matt's posting of 24Aug06:
The Army requires people to list their blogs so that they may keep track of information that may possibly be mission critical. Anything that may jeopardize the mission can't make it online (for good reason) and anything that would put soldiers lives, or the lives of their friends and family back home, at risk is best kept for the soldiers daily journal. These are secrets even better left in their heads, maybe to be released years later when it is alright to tell people of their stories.
Funds make event centre an easier sell (PENTICTON)
http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/portals-code/list.cgi?paper=102&cat=48&id=715285&more= Aug 25 2006
Supporters of the South Okanagan Event Centre will likely have several million reasons to smile today. It is expected that the province will announce that the city will receive a significant amount of casino money to help finance the project, which has a total cost of $56.1 million. We confess we do not know how big the cheque will be. Rumours about the amount are rampant and we have already heard of people who have entered wagers about the amount. We are certainly expecting a significant amount that will exceed the $9.7 million granted by the province last year. We are also confident that today’s announcement will boost the yes-side as the Sept. 16 referendum approaches. How important is that funding? Mayor Jake Kimberley said the city would have had to cancel the referendum — and likely the entire project — if the province did not agree to the request. The timing of today’s announcement — little more than three weeks away from the referendum date — is certainly not coincidental heading into that referendum. The announcement will not only redirect some of the media attention away from the no-side, it will also reach voters at a point in time when they are still making up their mind. Some parts of the public may still not understand how much they need to pay and what they are actually going to get after the most recent round of redesign. But the province would have been accused of desperate pandering if the announcement had come closer to voting day. This won’t happen now and the announcement gives supporters a chance to campaign with an improved hand. But the announcement also shifts the political burden. It highlights the ongoing absence of financial support from the federal government and the failed efforts of this current council to secure that funding.Those two levels of government are likely to receive the majority of the blame if the referendum fails. As for the province, it can wash its hands, watch the results come in and distribute the money to somebody else if the referendum fails.And the cheque — regardless of its size — won’t shoo away concerns the public continues to hear about the proposed management structure. How valid are those concerns? It actually does not matter. Those who say that the hiring of private management is the thin wedge of privatizing the local public sector have successfully muddied the waters. When the facts are not on your side, the first and only recourse is to create doubt about them.
Supporters of the South Okanagan Event Centre will likely have several million reasons to smile today. It is expected that the province will announce that the city will receive a significant amount of casino money to help finance the project, which has a total cost of $56.1 million. We confess we do not know how big the cheque will be. Rumours about the amount are rampant and we have already heard of people who have entered wagers about the amount. We are certainly expecting a significant amount that will exceed the $9.7 million granted by the province last year. We are also confident that today’s announcement will boost the yes-side as the Sept. 16 referendum approaches. How important is that funding? Mayor Jake Kimberley said the city would have had to cancel the referendum — and likely the entire project — if the province did not agree to the request. The timing of today’s announcement — little more than three weeks away from the referendum date — is certainly not coincidental heading into that referendum. The announcement will not only redirect some of the media attention away from the no-side, it will also reach voters at a point in time when they are still making up their mind. Some parts of the public may still not understand how much they need to pay and what they are actually going to get after the most recent round of redesign. But the province would have been accused of desperate pandering if the announcement had come closer to voting day. This won’t happen now and the announcement gives supporters a chance to campaign with an improved hand. But the announcement also shifts the political burden. It highlights the ongoing absence of financial support from the federal government and the failed efforts of this current council to secure that funding.Those two levels of government are likely to receive the majority of the blame if the referendum fails. As for the province, it can wash its hands, watch the results come in and distribute the money to somebody else if the referendum fails.And the cheque — regardless of its size — won’t shoo away concerns the public continues to hear about the proposed management structure. How valid are those concerns? It actually does not matter. Those who say that the hiring of private management is the thin wedge of privatizing the local public sector have successfully muddied the waters. When the facts are not on your side, the first and only recourse is to create doubt about them.
New Site for Tolko
http://www.1075kiss.com/whatson/news.jsp
The North Okanagan's largest lumber company is getting ready to break new ground.Tolko Industries will be relocating their corporate main office to the now empty lot on 28th st. between30th and 32nd ave.Al Thorlakson President & CEO of Tolko tells Kiss FM,'This is really just relocating our employees fromwhat is 3 different office facilities in Vernon to one centralized location and provide the opportunity of growth.'Thorlakson says initial employee occupancy will be 200 with room to add 200 more.Excavation of the property will begin on September 18th and is expected to be finished by the end ofApril 2007.(jessica Samuels Aug 25)
Whitepoint Road upgrades under way
By RICHARD ROLKE Morning Star Staff Aug 25 2006 http://www.vernonmorningstar.com/
Controversial improvements to Okanagan Lake accesses are under way.
The City of Vernon is expected to begin upgrades to the road right-of-way on Whitepoint Road today. “We’ve put a lot of work into this issue and we need to show a commitment to public access,” said Coun. Juliette Cunningham. Whitepoint Road will be the first of four lake access improvements. The other three — Foster Road, Kennedy Lane and Delcliffe Road — will occur next spring. The Whitepoint project, which will take about three weeks to complete, will include an asphalt turnaround, parking, landscaping and picnic tables. “There will also be some general cleanup and extra sand,” said James Rice, the city’s public works manager. There will be no parking at the access site during construction but pedestrian traffic will be allowed to use the beach. Some residents have expressed concerns that the upgrades will lead to traffic and noise problems as well as parties. However, Cunningham says the need of the community to access the lake must be considered. “We’ve looked at the concerns and we need to make these four accesses work because we will want to expand the program (to other sites),” she said. Whitepoint Road isn’t the only public works initiative under way. For the next three weeks, right-turn lanes will be constructed at 27th Street and 43rd Avenue. “It should help with traffic flows on 27th Street,” said Rice. Motorists are urged to be aware of the $25,000 project while driving through the area. “The biggest inconvenience will be no right-hand turns southbound on 27th Street until the project is done,” said Rice
Controversial improvements to Okanagan Lake accesses are under way.
The City of Vernon is expected to begin upgrades to the road right-of-way on Whitepoint Road today. “We’ve put a lot of work into this issue and we need to show a commitment to public access,” said Coun. Juliette Cunningham. Whitepoint Road will be the first of four lake access improvements. The other three — Foster Road, Kennedy Lane and Delcliffe Road — will occur next spring. The Whitepoint project, which will take about three weeks to complete, will include an asphalt turnaround, parking, landscaping and picnic tables. “There will also be some general cleanup and extra sand,” said James Rice, the city’s public works manager. There will be no parking at the access site during construction but pedestrian traffic will be allowed to use the beach. Some residents have expressed concerns that the upgrades will lead to traffic and noise problems as well as parties. However, Cunningham says the need of the community to access the lake must be considered. “We’ve looked at the concerns and we need to make these four accesses work because we will want to expand the program (to other sites),” she said. Whitepoint Road isn’t the only public works initiative under way. For the next three weeks, right-turn lanes will be constructed at 27th Street and 43rd Avenue. “It should help with traffic flows on 27th Street,” said Rice. Motorists are urged to be aware of the $25,000 project while driving through the area. “The biggest inconvenience will be no right-hand turns southbound on 27th Street until the project is done,” said Rice
City challenges dumping claims
By RICHARD ROLKE Morning Star Staff Aug 25 2006 http://www.vernonmorningstar.com/
The City of Vernon is lashing out at allegations that it’s planning to dump treated waste water into Okanagan Lake. Mayor Wayne Lippert is upset with Save Our Lakes and the Vernon Taxpayers Association, which claim the city’s attempt to change its sewer treatment plant operating certificate will allow it to discharge effluent into the lake and to shift away from spray irrigation. “Obviously they’re not understanding what’s going on. If they want to get it straight, they should contact us,” he said. “The application (to the Ministry of the Environment) is just reflecting the changes with the new treatment plant because the quality of the product is better. We’re still using spray irrigation and looking at ways to expand it.” In a press release, the taxpayers association questions if the city is phasing out land-based disposal of treated waste water. Lippert denies that’s the case. “Council’s policy is not to dump into Okanagan Lake because we want to keep the lake clean,” he said. He added that spray irrigation has been extended to the Rise resort and that shows a dedication to the program. Also in its release, the taxpayers association tries to link a cryptosporidium outbreak in Kelowna to the fact that Kelowna discharges waste water into the lake, while also getting its drinking water from that source. “The city (of Vernon) will need Okanagan Lake for future domestic water supply. What happens when the city grows and has to get its water from Okanagan Lake?” it states. However, Lippert points out that the ministry only allows the city to discharge into the lake in emergencies, and that won’t change under the new permit. “We’re not trying to do anything out of line and we fully support not dumping into the lake,” he said. Alan Hill, with Save Our Lakes, doesn’t accept Lippert’s comments. “There appears to be some discrepancy between what the mayor and administration are saying,” said Hill. Hill is convinced that a change to the city’s operating permit will undermine a memorandum of understanding he has with the city that bans discharges unless the level of McKay reservoir reaches a certain level. Hill has written to the ministry opposing the city’s proposal and he wants more information from the city. “I’ve asked them specifically what their plans are for spray irrigation and why it needs to change the permit?” he said. “The current permit should be sufficient to handle any problems.” Under an agreement, the city must also keep the Okanagan Indian Band aware of its sewer operations.
“We’re still looking at the proposed plans. We’re not jumping to any conclusions,” said Chief Fabian Alexis.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
CLICK ON CARTOON TO ENLARGE
http://www.vernon.ca/news/docs/060726.pdf
The above link is actual letter from City to the Ministry of Environment. You be the JUDGE !
The City of Vernon is lashing out at allegations that it’s planning to dump treated waste water into Okanagan Lake. Mayor Wayne Lippert is upset with Save Our Lakes and the Vernon Taxpayers Association, which claim the city’s attempt to change its sewer treatment plant operating certificate will allow it to discharge effluent into the lake and to shift away from spray irrigation. “Obviously they’re not understanding what’s going on. If they want to get it straight, they should contact us,” he said. “The application (to the Ministry of the Environment) is just reflecting the changes with the new treatment plant because the quality of the product is better. We’re still using spray irrigation and looking at ways to expand it.” In a press release, the taxpayers association questions if the city is phasing out land-based disposal of treated waste water. Lippert denies that’s the case. “Council’s policy is not to dump into Okanagan Lake because we want to keep the lake clean,” he said. He added that spray irrigation has been extended to the Rise resort and that shows a dedication to the program. Also in its release, the taxpayers association tries to link a cryptosporidium outbreak in Kelowna to the fact that Kelowna discharges waste water into the lake, while also getting its drinking water from that source. “The city (of Vernon) will need Okanagan Lake for future domestic water supply. What happens when the city grows and has to get its water from Okanagan Lake?” it states. However, Lippert points out that the ministry only allows the city to discharge into the lake in emergencies, and that won’t change under the new permit. “We’re not trying to do anything out of line and we fully support not dumping into the lake,” he said. Alan Hill, with Save Our Lakes, doesn’t accept Lippert’s comments. “There appears to be some discrepancy between what the mayor and administration are saying,” said Hill. Hill is convinced that a change to the city’s operating permit will undermine a memorandum of understanding he has with the city that bans discharges unless the level of McKay reservoir reaches a certain level. Hill has written to the ministry opposing the city’s proposal and he wants more information from the city. “I’ve asked them specifically what their plans are for spray irrigation and why it needs to change the permit?” he said. “The current permit should be sufficient to handle any problems.” Under an agreement, the city must also keep the Okanagan Indian Band aware of its sewer operations.“We’re still looking at the proposed plans. We’re not jumping to any conclusions,” said Chief Fabian Alexis.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
CLICK ON CARTOON TO ENLARGE
http://www.vernon.ca/news/docs/060726.pdf
The above link is actual letter from City to the Ministry of Environment. You be the JUDGE !
"A prisoner in your own home"
By David SkelhonFriday, August 25, 2006, http://www.dailycourier.ca/article_473.phpHost had been leading a quiet life in her East Hill neighbourhood for more than 20 years. All that changed dramatically last spring when a house in the area was sold to someone she alleges is a crack dealer.The first indication of a problem came that same
weekend, when Host went to introduce herself to the new people who had moved into the neighbourhood. “They were both fairly glazed over,” she said.Host said the new owner of the property appeared to have moved to the area from out of town and was new to the city. She added that a few days later one of the new neighbours came around several times to ask if they could use the phone. The person later asked Host if they could leave all of their belongings on Host’s deck because she appeared to be moving out. Host, however, refused the request.Since then, there has been a constant stream of visitors, day and night, who Host believes are buying drugs, and with visitors comes a lot of noise and disturbance. “They are very blatant about it,” she said.“You feel like a prisoner in your own home . . . it’s so hard to get a full nights sleep . . . subconsciously you’re always on the alert.”Host complains that taxis turn up in the early hours of the morning and the drivers honk their horns when they become tired of waiting for customers to come out of the house. Host said that expensive cars and motorcycles also visit the property. People also come to her house by mistake in the middle of the night, Host said.She also said that the person she alleges is a crack dealer “lunged” at another neighbor who complained about the noise.Host said, “We’ve had situations where they’ve been throwing knives at the back shed,” and she added “So far we haven’t had a situation were there’s been a murder or an overdose.”Host said she also believes a lot of the girls that regularly visit the property are prostitutes. “There has been a lot of abuse,” she said, adding that many of the girls seem to be afraid of the property owner.Host has made calls to the police, but said, “The police will come and seconds after they leave, (the visitors) will start coming back in.”“Basically, (the RCMP) can’t shut them down until they have enough evidence,” she said.This is supported by Gord Molendyk, community programs coordinator with the City of Vernon RCMP Safe Communities Unit. “We have to get enough information to obtain a warrant,” said Molendyk. He added that, “The police are very well aware of (the East Hill property) . . . we’re working on it.”Molendyk also said that at any one time they are dealing with at least 10 to 12 similar cases in the area. He said that the general public has been asked by the police for information regarding drug use but it takes time to gather evidence. “The police have to build a case,” he said. It’s frustrating for the police as well as the residents . . . it can’t happen immediately.”
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