Proceeding with plans

By RICHARD ROLKE Morning Star Staff Nov 10 2006 http://www.vernonmorningstar.com/
Plans for a regional economic development function are proceeding, although Vernon remains a reluctant participant. The North Okanagan Regional District gave three readings to bylaws Wednesday that would create an economic development initiative and strip it from the Greater Vernon Services Commission’s mandate. The challenge was the bylaws could only proceed with all member jurisdictions approving of it in principle. That had not happened with the City of Vernon, which wanted more discussions around the issue.
“There’s no support in principle from Vernon but from everyone else. It may be inappropriate to proceed to third reading,” said Brian Reardon, NORD administrator. However, the city’s three NORD representatives voted for three readings after the other directors agreed to look at Vernon’s concerns. They also pointed out that final adoption of the bylaws is still required. “This can die on the order table if the issues you’re asking aren’t (made) attractive,” said Jerry Oglow from Armstrong. Those assurances were welcome news to Patrick Nicol, Vernon director. “It’s the right thing to do but people are asking valid questions that deserve an answer,” he said. Among the city’s concerns are the future of tourism and marketing — which are currently connected to economic development under GVSC — and the time period in which jurisdictions would agree to fund the function. Cliff Kanester, BX-Swan Lake director, believes the split between economic development and tourism must be reviewed. “If that can be reconciled, perhaps the city can be brought on board,” he said. There was considerable pressure on Vernon from the other NORD members to back a regional function, especially to increase the amount of industrial land. “All jurisdictions will benefit and time is of the essence. If we don’t get moving, we’ll get nothing,” said Herman Halvorson, rural Enderby director, of industry. That was also the view from Lumby director Eric Foster. “Business won’t keep beating on the door forever. Let’s go forward, address the city’s concerns and let’s get going,” he said.