News Briefs Sept 17 Morningstar

Vernon Morningstar
Vocal Arts Festival funding fuels debate
A Greater Vernon politician is left wondering when one-time only means one-time only. Director Barry Beardsell is upset that the Greater Vernon Services Commission has confirmed the Okanagan Vocal Arts Festival Society will get $10,000 for this year's event despite receiving $32,000 in 2003. "They were only getting money from taxpayers once. That was the entire discussion and intent at the time," he said of the 2003 contribution. However, staff says the 2003 funds were provided before a firm policy was in place and they came from a different source of money than those this year.
Work continues on Duteau Creek project
Planning is continuing on a new clarification system for the Duteau Creek water source. "The project has kicked off quite quickly," said Jeremy Kinch, Greater Vernon Services Commission project manager. The goal is to award the general construction contract in March, with the facility opened in spring 2008. The $19 million clarification facility would address turbidity and colour concerns with the former Vernon Irrigation District.
Greater Vernon expands tourism marketing
A grant will allow the Greater Vernon Services Commission to triple its tourism marketing initiatives. The $212,345 grant is being provided by the Union of B.C. Municipalities. "The grant will enhance current tourism marketing initiatives and assist in building new marketing opportunities," said Jennifer Strachan, with GVSC. Among the projects being supported is signage, expanded circulation of the visitors guide, increased representation at trade shows and facilities such as the Gray Canal trail and O'Keefe Ranch.
Shift considered for performing arts name
The Greater Vernon Services Commission may change its strategy when it comes to finding a corporate name for the Performing Arts Centre. In a memo to directors, staff says there have been meeting between them and the Vernon Performing Arts Centre Society, which operates the facility. "We are looking at the possibility of pursuing the selling of the naming rights ourselves," said Al McNiven, parks and recreation administrator. Earlier in the year, the board had asked staff to seek a consultant that would try and sell the naming rights.
"If there are local companies who may be interested in naming rights, it may be more beneficial to have staff and local people deal with these companies," said McNiven.