Village eyes industrial base

By RICHARD ROLKE Morning Star Staff Dec 31 2006 http://www.vernonmorningstar.com/
Lumby’s future is directly linked to a strong industrial base taking root. That’s the word from Mayor Eric Foster, whose council will be working with private interests in 2007 to develop land already designated for industrial uses. “If we have that, it will encourage young families to move into the community or for them to stay because there are good jobs,” he said. “The subdivisions will fill up and the schools will fill up.” Foster added that an industrial sector will also bolster the village’s tax base and support local merchants. However, there is considerable lobbying involved in trying to attract a business to set up shop in the community. Foster has been working closely with Dave Forai, Greater Vernon’s economic development manager. “We’ve got a great community here with all the amenities,” said Foster. “We have affordable homes and serviced industrial land and all we need is for people to come for a look.” Lumby has been a strong advocate for taking Greater Vernon’s economic development function and turning it into an agency that covers the entire North Okanagan Regional District. Foster is hopeful other North Okanagan communities will rally behind the concept. In terms of furthering economic opportunities, the village will also be pushing for a new road to Silver Star in 2007. The goal is to get provincial government approval so the proposed corridor can be commercially developed. That would provide the funding for construction of the road. “We’re guardedly optimistic. There’s been some positive meetings with the provincial people,” said Foster, adding that a road to Silver Star would encourage tourism and investment in Lumby. However, some residents have expressed concern that a road will negatively impact the environment and actually draw business away from Lumby. Foster isn’t concerned that those views will gain strength. “It (road) will be a huge economic benefit to the community.” Another project on the radar for 2007 is a proposed assisted living seniors residents, the goal is for construction to begin in the spring. Foster said such a residence would attract doctors to Lumby and allow longtime seniors to remain in their community instead of having to move to Vernon for care. “Their families would be able to stop in and visit more regularly.”