Greater Vernon politicians are willing to wade directly into the debate over Polson Park's future. Greater Vernon Services Commission members confirmed Thursday that they will begin
discussing Polson Park and the recent grandstand fire at their Sept. 28 meeting. "I could also see us having a special meeting to deal with this issue only," said chairman Gary Corner. "Something has to be done with Polson Park and this unfortunate incident (arson fire) may be the kickstart." One outstanding issue is a request from the City of Vernon that a public input session be held prior to GVSC making any decision on long-term use of Polson Park. "We've got our plans but it's important for the public to make comments," said Barry Beardsell, a Vernon councillor who sits on GVSC. Beardsell is adamant that any input process be initiated by GVSC, although some of his council colleagues insist the city has a role. Some city officials have expressed concern that the GVSC will move towards a passive park, removing the football field and track. That appears to be the thrust of a GVSC resolution in 2005 that calls for a site to be secured for a new multi-use sporting facility. "Meetings have been held with sports clubs since that time and it was agreed GVSC should pursue a major sports field complex," said Al McNiven, in an Aug. 31 memo to the board. "When this sports field complex proceeds, this site would be the appropriate location for a grandstand." McNiven goes on to say that preliminary discussions about the park will be held Sept. 28. "I will provide background information on the long-term plans for Polson Park that have been discussed in the past." Corner expects his board will agree to the city's request. "There will be different directions provided but it's important to get input and find out what the public wants," he said. The site of the grandstand has been cleaned up and a temporary trailer and storage container will be placed there to store parks equipment.
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