Township backs function

By Tyler Olsen Morning Star Staff Nov 08 2006 http://www.vernonmorningstar.com/
Spallumcheen council voted Monday to tentatively support a proposed regional economic development function, although their enthusiasm for the body was less than overwhelming. The new body would expand a Greater Vernon program with the aim to promote and aid economic growth to the regional district level.But, with Spallumcheen pushing the North Okanagan Regional District to help with a new industrial park, council indicated that any new economic body it supports must help make the park a reality. “I agree with what’s been said around the table that there needs to be support in principle for the plan Spallumcheen is putting forward,” said Mayor Will Hansma. But he added that the township should signal its support for the new body. “This tells them (NORD) we’re serious and we’re looking for them to tell us they’re serious.” Coun. Lorna Bissell, who is also a NORD director, said the new body will directly benefit the township. “I believe, in the end, Spallumcheen is going to be the winner in this economic development because Spallumcheen has the land. “If we don’t send the message to NORD that we support this tonight then we can’t move forward (with the industrial park) at either level of government.” But Coun. Carolyn Farris, who was the only councillor to vote against supporting the proposed function, said the process is moving too fast and that, without solid numbers, the township should be concerned. “I think in some cases we’re moving too quickly. We don’t have the necessary financial statements,” she said. “I think we really need to look at the financial implications for taxpayers and we need to look at what the deliverables will be. “We’ve got the cart ahead of the horse.”