Friday, June 30, 2006
Board looks to restrict mining activities
By RICHARD ROLKE Morning Star Staff Jun 30 2006
http://www.vernonmorningstar.com/portals-code/list.cgi?paper=35&cat=23&id=680651&more=
The battle over mining claims is going political. The Greater Vernon Services Commission board voted Thursday to try and restrict mining activities in critical watershed areas. Stan Field, Area C director, also wants to take the controversial matter to the provincial stage. "This is a provincewide issue," Field told his colleagues. "This goes beyond our watershed. This (legislation) means they can be staking claims on your property and my property." GVSC will apply to the Ministry of Mines to officially create reserves where a claim can't be staked once the reserve is in place. An existing valid mining claim can still be surveyed and taken to lease in an area over which a no-staking reserve has been established, subsequent to the staking and recording of the claim. The issue was brought to GVSC's attention by the Canadian Private Land Owners Group, which is fighting provincial legislation that allows an individual to claim the sub-surface mining rights on privately owned property. The Canadian Private Land Owners Group will go before the North Okanagan Regional District next Wednesday, and Field hopes NORD will take the matter before the Union of B.C. Municipalities to pursue in Victoria. "We need to get behind this issue and support it," he said. "The current rules have to change and while it's being looked at (by the province), we need to exert pressure through the UBCM." Field is convinced that claims to sub-surface mining rights, and any subsequent mineral extraction, could have a significant impact on communities. "We can't allow mining to happen in our watersheds. It's a real concern for us," he said.
The battle over mining claims is going political. The Greater Vernon Services Commission board voted Thursday to try and restrict mining activities in critical watershed areas. Stan Field, Area C director, also wants to take the controversial matter to the provincial stage. "This is a provincewide issue," Field told his colleagues. "This goes beyond our watershed. This (legislation) means they can be staking claims on your property and my property." GVSC will apply to the Ministry of Mines to officially create reserves where a claim can't be staked once the reserve is in place. An existing valid mining claim can still be surveyed and taken to lease in an area over which a no-staking reserve has been established, subsequent to the staking and recording of the claim. The issue was brought to GVSC's attention by the Canadian Private Land Owners Group, which is fighting provincial legislation that allows an individual to claim the sub-surface mining rights on privately owned property. The Canadian Private Land Owners Group will go before the North Okanagan Regional District next Wednesday, and Field hopes NORD will take the matter before the Union of B.C. Municipalities to pursue in Victoria. "We need to get behind this issue and support it," he said. "The current rules have to change and while it's being looked at (by the province), we need to exert pressure through the UBCM." Field is convinced that claims to sub-surface mining rights, and any subsequent mineral extraction, could have a significant impact on communities. "We can't allow mining to happen in our watersheds. It's a real concern for us," he said.
Fatal Motorcycle Crash VERNON
http://www.castanet.net/edition/news-story-19873-2-.htm#19873
by Staff - Story: 19873June 30, 2006 / 11:29 am
On Thursday evening at 11:20 pm Vernon RCMP were called to attend a single vehicle accident on 39th Ave at 17th Street in Vernon's East Hill. A 28 year old Vernon male was the lone rider of a 2006 Suzuki Sport Bike which was eastbound on 39th Ave approaching 17th Street at very high speed. At the scene of the crash on 39th Ave is completely blocked off for construction work. The Sport bike failed to slow in time to avoid the construction site barricades and crashed into the work side at high speed. The rider was ejected form the bike and was thrown into the construction site where he suffered significant injury. He was transported to Vernon Jubilee Hospital where he died a short while later. A major cause of the crash was excess speed. It is unknown at this time if alcohol or drugs were involved. The crash is still under investigation.
by Staff - Story: 19873June 30, 2006 / 11:29 am
On Thursday evening at 11:20 pm Vernon RCMP were called to attend a single vehicle accident on 39th Ave at 17th Street in Vernon's East Hill. A 28 year old Vernon male was the lone rider of a 2006 Suzuki Sport Bike which was eastbound on 39th Ave approaching 17th Street at very high speed. At the scene of the crash on 39th Ave is completely blocked off for construction work. The Sport bike failed to slow in time to avoid the construction site barricades and crashed into the work side at high speed. The rider was ejected form the bike and was thrown into the construction site where he suffered significant injury. He was transported to Vernon Jubilee Hospital where he died a short while later. A major cause of the crash was excess speed. It is unknown at this time if alcohol or drugs were involved. The crash is still under investigation.
Cultural complex & Boat Launch
Complex Discussion Put Off http://www.1075kiss.com/whatson/news.jsp
An expected discussion by G-V-S-C members about the proposed cultural complex, has been put on hold .The board decided to wait until the complex committee presents its final report to Vernon council on July 10-th.The pitch to make it a Greater Vernon project has already met with resistance from the rural reps who have said they won't support it. (Pete McIntyre June 30-06)
GVSC Approves Boat Launch
An upgrade to a popular boat launching site on Kal Lake should be completed late this summer.That after Greater Vernon Services approved a committee's recommendations for the Kalavista boat launch in Coldstream.The changes will go ahead pending approval from the Environment Ministry which could take several weeks.The plans include a new parking lot, with room for up to 25 more vehicles, along with improvements to the ramp and signage.Committee chair Mary Malerby says it was hard to please everyone, but she feels this was the best compromise.G-V-S paid $329,000 for the lot adjacent to Alexanders, last year. (Pete McIntyre June 30-06)
Residential Taxes may have to Increase ?? BUT NOT IN VERNON
For a larger image of Table please Click on it.The loss revenue in our area would range from $9200 in Lumby to $297,000 in Coldstream & $278,000 in Spall. Vernon has no Major Industry to tax. Kamloops would lose $3,672,000.
P
rovince ponders tax break By David Skelhon Friday, June 30, 2006, http://www.dailycourier.ca/article_320.php
Coldstream residents could see a substantial hike in their property taxes if the provincial government goes ahead with a cap on heavy industry taxation.Currently, heavy or class four industry pays a rate based on industrial property values determined by B.C. Assessment Authority.District of Coldstream director of financial adminstration, Catherine Lord, said that the municipality currently receives over $400,000 per year from heavy industry. The provincial government is studying several options and one of them is to make the heavy industry rate the same as the regular commercial rate, said Lord.This would reduce the amount collected from heavy industry by 75 per cent leaving the municpality $300,000 short.“The shortfall would have to be met by regular commercial and residential tax payers,” said Lord.She said, “Historically the provincial government has allowed the municipalities to set their own mill rates.”Richard Taylor, the Executive Director of the Union of B.C. Municipalities (UBCM), said that the recommendation for tax changes has come from the B.C. Competition Council. The council was formed by the provincial government last year.Taylor said the UBCM held a member consultation about the recommendations in May and has subsequently been communicating with Minister Ida Chong and Premier Gordon Campbell. “Minister Chong has said they won’t do anything until the municipalities have been consulted,” he saidThe City of Vernon has no heavy industry so Vernon tax payers are unlikely to be directly effected.
City councillor denies rumours
By RICHARD ROLKEMorning Star StaffJun 23 2006 morningstar
A veteran Vernon politician denies he’s resigning. Rumours have been circulating that Coun. Barry Beardsell is considering leaving office, but he says that’s not the case. “Certainly it’s crossed my mind but I’m not doing that. It’s wrong speculation,” said Beardsell, who was first elected in 1996. Beardsell admits he has been extremely concerned about the direction of the Greater Vernon Services Commission and the North Okanagan Regional District and how those agencies impact the city. “Obviously there’s people who know I’m frustrated,” said Beardsell, who sits on the GVSC board. “I was elected as a resident of Vernon to primarily represent the taxpayers of Vernon and I haven’t forgotten that.” Beardsell would not comment on his relationship with the city’s current council. “I won’t start speculating about the direction of council because it’s early on in the term still,” he said. However, Beardsell is lashing out at his colleagues over committee of the whole meetings held on Fridays. “This council was going to be the most open and transparent council,” said Beardsell. “Those (Friday) meetings were originally set up to acquaint the new council members with technical items. They weren’t to become additional meetings.” While the committee of the whole meetings are public, Beardsell says they aren’t well publicized and poorly attended by residents. Today’s session involves resort development, and with previous public concerns about the city’s relationship with developers, Beardsell fears that gives the wrong impression. “There’s a perception (of secrecy) and to see a meeting like this, people will wonder what else is going on.” Beardsell says the Friday sessions are onerous on councillors who already have a busy schedule. “Some of us on council have to work for a living,” he said. Mayor Wayne Lippert defends the Friday meetings. “They are essentially information sessions. They involve staff and we’ve had speakers come in,” he said. “They are committee of the whole meetings because provincial legislation says if council gathers and there is a quorum, they must be committee of the whole.” Lippert says the meetings are publicized on the city Web site, and the public is welcome to attend. “We’re not doing anything behind closed doors,” he said. “Everything done there must go through the regular council meeting and if Coun. Beardsell is concerned about what’s going on, he could attend. He finds time to go to GVSC. If there’s a time issue I could remove him from GVSC so he could attend these other sessions.”
GVSC greenlights fee hike
Users of Greater Vernon's recreation facilities were hit by an unexpected hike in fees Thursday. Greater Vernon Services Commission members voted to increase 2006/07 fees and charges by five per cent, although staff had only been recommending 3.5 per cent. "By going five per cent rather than 3.5 per cent in most instances, we will see an improvement in the financial situation," said director Barry Beardsell. Beardsell lobbied for staff's recommendation to be abandoned because he felt it didn't address projected increases in inflation or the financial impact of providing services. "Have we gone high enough because if we haven't, it's another year of being behind the eight-ball," he said. "It's finally time to set a direction where we go more than the inflation rate. We're not gaining ground." While the general rate hike for 2006/07 will be five per cent, there are some exceptions. Fees at the arenas will climb three per cent as part of GVSC's contract with Recreation Excellence, while field user fees will go from $12 to $15 an hour per field for adults and $5 to $6 for youth. As part of the budget process, staff looked at other communities and their recreation fees. "With the arenas, we're close to average, parks we're probably high and with pools, we're average," said Al McNiven, parks and recreation administrator. "We shouldn't be tying our fees to someone else's coat tails. Other communities don't do the same things we do," said director Cliff Kanester.
Thursday, June 29, 2006
Vernon Victim #2
by Wayne Moore - Story: 19829June 29, 2006 / 9:49 am
A gun toting robber appears to be on the loose in the Vernon area. Early in the morning of June 27, a 27 year old male was robbed at the corner of 32nd St and 31st Ave. He says the suspect pointed what was described as a black handgun or taser at the victim and demanded he place his wallet on the sidewalk and walk away. A second victim, a 17 year old female has now come forward, saying she was also robbed the same day. She says she was approached by a man at the corner of 27th St and 39th Ave and pulled into a car. She says the suspect produced what appeared to be a handgun and demanded her purse. The victim struggled, let go of her purse and was able to get away. She was not injured. The suspect quickly drove away in what is described as a mid 80's, dark blue or black, small Honda. The robber is described as 25-30 years old, clean shaven, Caucasian, 180 lbs. The fact that the robberies occurred back to back, the suspect was described as wearing a white ‘T’ shirt on both occasions, drove the older Honda and used what appears to be a handgun tied the crimes together as undoubtedly being perpetrated by the same male. Police are again appealing to the public for assistance. If anyone witnessed this crime or has knowledge of it, they are requested to call the Vernon Detachment or Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.
A gun toting robber appears to be on the loose in the Vernon area. Early in the morning of June 27, a 27 year old male was robbed at the corner of 32nd St and 31st Ave. He says the suspect pointed what was described as a black handgun or taser at the victim and demanded he place his wallet on the sidewalk and walk away. A second victim, a 17 year old female has now come forward, saying she was also robbed the same day. She says she was approached by a man at the corner of 27th St and 39th Ave and pulled into a car. She says the suspect produced what appeared to be a handgun and demanded her purse. The victim struggled, let go of her purse and was able to get away. She was not injured. The suspect quickly drove away in what is described as a mid 80's, dark blue or black, small Honda. The robber is described as 25-30 years old, clean shaven, Caucasian, 180 lbs. The fact that the robberies occurred back to back, the suspect was described as wearing a white ‘T’ shirt on both occasions, drove the older Honda and used what appears to be a handgun tied the crimes together as undoubtedly being perpetrated by the same male. Police are again appealing to the public for assistance. If anyone witnessed this crime or has knowledge of it, they are requested to call the Vernon Detachment or Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.
Fireworks A Go JULY 1
http://www.1075kiss.com/whatson/news.jsp
Fireworks will once again light up the sky around Vernon on Canada Day.The event will be based at the D-N-D starting at 10:30 Saturday night.A citizen's committee helped raise eight-thousand dollars through sponsors for the 15 minute show.Fire chief John Lysholm says the Okanagan Landing Fire department will put on the display, while other local departments will volunteer their services for security and fire safety.Lysholm says, 'The best part about it is that its not just Vernon its everybody in the community. This is Canada Day celebrations that's all of us. So I think the fact that we brought them all together and that we're all working together co-operatively in this is a real plus."Parking will be available at Okanagan College with a free shuttle service to the grounds. (Pete McIntyre June 28-06)
Fireworks will once again light up the sky around Vernon on Canada Day.The event will be based at the D-N-D starting at 10:30 Saturday night.A citizen's committee helped raise eight-thousand dollars through sponsors for the 15 minute show.Fire chief John Lysholm says the Okanagan Landing Fire department will put on the display, while other local departments will volunteer their services for security and fire safety.Lysholm says, 'The best part about it is that its not just Vernon its everybody in the community. This is Canada Day celebrations that's all of us. So I think the fact that we brought them all together and that we're all working together co-operatively in this is a real plus."Parking will be available at Okanagan College with a free shuttle service to the grounds. (Pete McIntyre June 28-06)
Tories may have taken $2M in illicit donations
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20060628/tories_donations_060628/20060628?hub=TopStories Canadian Press
OTTAWA -- The Conservative party may have illegally accepted millions in unreported donations last year because it didn't understand political financing laws. That's the startling conclusion drawn from testimony given to a Senate committee by the Harper administration's point man on cleaning up government. Treasury Board President John Baird has told the committee that his party did not consider fees paid to attend its March 2005 policy convention to be political contributions. But the Elections Act stipulates that convention fees do constitute a donation. The Tories' 2005 convention was attended by about 2,900 party members, who paid a regular fee of $600 each, although discounts were available for some. That means the party stood to rake in as much as $1.7 million, all or some of which should have been reported to Elections Canada as donations.
DON QUIXOTE NOTE: Following E-Mail received from Conservative Party
Statement by Conservative Party on Convention Fees
The Party's convention arrangements in 2005 fully respected the law.
The fees we charged our delegates to attend did not exceed the costs of running the convention. The fees covered such things as meals, hall rental, security and the like, and there was no net revenue earned by the Party. Consistent with interpretations of the Elections Act and the Income Tax Act issued by Elections Canada and the Canada Revenue Agency and applied many times in the past concerning the price of admission to political events, receipts for a political contributions were therefore not issued for any part of the delegate fee.
The President of the Treasury Board, the Honourable John Baird, was quoted, correctly, as saying that the Party did not issue tax receipts for the 2005 convention. He made no statement that the Party thereby did anything contrary to political financing legislation.
Michael D. Donison
Executive Director
Conservative Party of Canada
OTTAWA -- The Conservative party may have illegally accepted millions in unreported donations last year because it didn't understand political financing laws. That's the startling conclusion drawn from testimony given to a Senate committee by the Harper administration's point man on cleaning up government. Treasury Board President John Baird has told the committee that his party did not consider fees paid to attend its March 2005 policy convention to be political contributions. But the Elections Act stipulates that convention fees do constitute a donation. The Tories' 2005 convention was attended by about 2,900 party members, who paid a regular fee of $600 each, although discounts were available for some. That means the party stood to rake in as much as $1.7 million, all or some of which should have been reported to Elections Canada as donations.
DON QUIXOTE NOTE: Following E-Mail received from Conservative Party
Statement by Conservative Party on Convention Fees
The Party's convention arrangements in 2005 fully respected the law.
The fees we charged our delegates to attend did not exceed the costs of running the convention. The fees covered such things as meals, hall rental, security and the like, and there was no net revenue earned by the Party. Consistent with interpretations of the Elections Act and the Income Tax Act issued by Elections Canada and the Canada Revenue Agency and applied many times in the past concerning the price of admission to political events, receipts for a political contributions were therefore not issued for any part of the delegate fee.
The President of the Treasury Board, the Honourable John Baird, was quoted, correctly, as saying that the Party did not issue tax receipts for the 2005 convention. He made no statement that the Party thereby did anything contrary to political financing legislation.
Michael D. Donison
Executive Director
Conservative Party of Canada
New manager has bold new vision for historic Mackie Lake House
By David SkelhonThursday, June 29, 2006, http://www.dailycourier.ca/article_318.php
Mackie Lake House is a magnificent heritage property, rich in history, on the east side of Kalamalka Lake off Kidston Road. Newly appointed manager Carolyn Grant, together with new caretaker David Carder, is just discovering the many treasures the property holds.“This is my dream job. Everything I have done before has lead to this position,” said Grant, who has a background in arts and culture. “I feel strongly about honoring this legacy.”Mackie Lake House was commissioned by Montreal businessman Ronald Buchanan in 1910. When completed it was considered one of the finest homes in the Okanagan. The building is largely original, complete with furniture and antiques from that era.The Mackies established the Vernon Preparatory School for boys in 1913 and Hugh and Grace Mackie moved to the house when they retired in 1945.Patrick (Paddy) Mackie was the youngest of five Mackie sons. During World War II, he served in the Royal Canadian Navy. He was a student at UBC, the Ontario College of Art and the Sorbonne in Paris.Paddy Mackie taught French at W.L.Seaton Secondary School in Vernon for 25 years. He was an accomplished watercolourist, potter, pianist and flautist and also a naturalist and historian. He never married and when he died in 1999, the five-acre, waterfront property was bequeathed to the Mackie Lake House Foundation. At the back of the property, lawns sweep down to a wooded area that connects with Kalamalka Lake. Grant said, “There are a couple of eagles that hang out in the trees . . . Paddy was a real environmentalist.”Grant said that the property has been used for wedding photography and receptions and also for meetings. It has a large barn, in excellent condition, and its loft is sometimes used as a temporary classroom for visiting school children. She said she would like to expand the property’s use. “It’s going to lean towards educational programming, and arts and culture related events.”Grant said tours are available by appointment, and special tours with “tea and treats” are planned. These will take place on July 15, August 5 and September 9 and will be guided by Vernon actress Christine Pilgrim dressed as Grace Mackie. Tickets are $20 and are available from the Vernon Museum.For more information on Mackie Lake House, call 545-1019, or go to www.mackiehouse.ca.
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
Tax Ratios to be examined for first time in 10 years.
Vernon Council instructed the Financial Staff to bring back a full report on the implications of changing the Light Industrial Ratio to the equivalent of the Business Tax Ratio AND to change the Utilities Tax Ratio from 2.82 to 5.00 or the same as Kelowna Rate by Oct/ 2006.
(From the June 26th meeting of Council)
HIGHLIGHTS Of GVSC AGENDA Thursday June 29
http://www.greatervernon.ca/user_files/File/June%2029%20Regular.pdf
REGULAR Meeting of the GREATER VERNON SERVICES COMMISSION to be held
in the Board Room of the Regional District Office at 8:00 a.m., THURSDAY, JUNE 29, 2006
REGULAR Meeting of the GREATER VERNON SERVICES COMMISSION to be held
in the Board Room of the Regional District Office at 8:00 a.m., THURSDAY, JUNE 29, 2006
THAT the report from the Policies & Programs Manager dated June 21,
2006 re Claims Staking in the GVS Watershed Area; THAT GVSC
direct staff to identify higher risk areas within all watershed areas that
should be included in an Application for Reserve under the Minerals
Tenure Act; AND THAT an Application for Reserve be prepared and
submitted by RDNO to the Ministry of Mines, Energy and Petroleum
Resources; AND FURTHER THAT a copy of this report be forwarded
to the RDNO Board for information.
5.2 Report from Jeremy Kinch, Project Manager dated June 21, 2006.
Recommendation:
THAT the report from the Project Manager dated June 21, 2006 re
Water Rates Review be received; AND THAT the proposed scope of
work and work program for the GVWU water rates review be approved
as proposed.
5.3 Report from Al Cotsworth, Water Manager dated June 21, 2006.
Recommendation:
THAT the report from the Water Manager dated June 21, 2006 re
Amendments to GVWU Rates Imposition Bylaw & Schedule “A” be
received; THAT the GVWU Rates Imposition Bylaw No. 2139 and
Schedule “A” be repealed and replaced with a new bylaw which
incorporates the amendments included in this report; AND THAT the
RDNO Board be requested to adopt the new GVWU Rates Imposition
Bylaw at their next meeting.
6.1 Report from Al McNiven, Director of Parks, Recreation & Culture
dated June 20, 2006.
Recommendation:
THAT the report from the Director of Parks, Recreation & Culture
dated June 20, 2006 re Cultural Complex be received; AND THAT the
GVSC postpone further discussions on this topic until the final report is
received by the City of Vernon and the City of Vernon brings forward
their proposal to GVSC.
City frustrates Rise developer
By RICHARD ROLKE Morning Star StaffJun 25 2006 http://www.vernonmorningstar.com/portals-code/list.cgi?paper=35&cat=23&id=676851&more=
The City of Vernon is being accused of allowing bureaucracy to sabotage a destination resort's plans. Leona Snider, president of The Rise, used a presentation to council Friday to blast city policies that she believes are targeted towards subdivisions more than resorts. "A resort development is not a suburban development," she said. "We've had a lot of changes given to us by the city and that's changing the natural environment and adding costs." One of Snider's primary concerns is the city's demands that trees be planted along roadways. "We've spent considerable funds on environmental studies and to now plant trees not native to the area will cause a lot of grief. We will have to supply them with water and they will kill the grasslands," she said. Snider also points out that The Rise has launched a vineyard and there are adjacent commercial orchards. "In a farming area, it's not advisable to attract birds (because they destroy crops)." Snider told council she takes issue with landscaping rules being imposed by the city at this stage in the development process. "Our plan was not frivolously thrown together," she said. There is also considerable concern that the city is promoting light pollution by demanding standard street lighting at The Rise, contrary to the resort's "dark sky" policy.
"Who wants it lit up like an air strip?" said Jim Radford, senior vice-president. Installing lights along the main arterial road will cost $3 million. "I've hired the best people to create a resort with ambiance and I'm dealing with bylaws that won't let me," said Snider. "The community has said to us to protect the environment but when you add lights and plant trees, it affects the environment." City staff confirm that regulations call for trees to be planted along boulevards.
"We're in the middle of discussions with the developer," said Lorne Holowachuk, the city's manager of planning, development and engineering services. Mayor Wayne Lippert acknowledged Friday that there are some differences of opinion between the city and The Rise.
"We've got a new council and they're interested in how the development is being done. It's good that she (Snider) came forward and wants to work things out," he said.
Boat Launch A Go
http://www.1075kiss.com/whatson/news.jsp A controversial parking lot in Coldstream looks like it will be moving forward.That after a committee had its recommendations on the Kalavista boat launch, approved by District council.Mayor Gary Corner calls it a good compromise.Mayor Corner says, '"They've taken recommendations, one being that we're going to move the tie down area in front of the parking lot that has just been purchased it will be sort of a drive through area where you'll be able to tie down."Kalavista Drive resident Jim Cookson, who initiated a petition against the expansion, disagrees it was a compromise.Cookson says, "Well 575 people signed the petition against the expeansion. the working group actually found ways to make the parking lot bigger than it was when they started. So congratulations to the other side they won."The recommendations will next go to GVSC for approval.(Pete McIntyre June 28-06)
New Drug Bylaw
http://www.1075kiss.com/whatson/news.jsp
Police and city bylaw officers could soon have a new tool for dealing with drug users.City council has given preliminary approval to a drug paraphernalia bylaw which would allow authorities to fine people caught with pipes and other drug items in public parks.Bylaw Enforcement Manager Clint Kanester says it would also allow police to remove offenders from parks.Kanester says, "We've also looked at some other things to deal with some of the back end of Polson Park issues, where we have people who have basically set up camp there. we constantly get complaints with regards to that type of situation."Kanester says a similiar bylaw was put in force in Kelowna last year, which is one reason why more transients moved to Vernon.(Pete McIntyre June 28-06)
Police and city bylaw officers could soon have a new tool for dealing with drug users.City council has given preliminary approval to a drug paraphernalia bylaw which would allow authorities to fine people caught with pipes and other drug items in public parks.Bylaw Enforcement Manager Clint Kanester says it would also allow police to remove offenders from parks.Kanester says, "We've also looked at some other things to deal with some of the back end of Polson Park issues, where we have people who have basically set up camp there. we constantly get complaints with regards to that type of situation."Kanester says a similiar bylaw was put in force in Kelowna last year, which is one reason why more transients moved to Vernon.(Pete McIntyre June 28-06)
DON QUIXOTE COUNCIL MUSINGS
At Monday's Committee of the Whole meeting the Council decided to re advertise the openings for 2 additional persons on the Vernon Land Corp. One applicant did not accept the nomination to this local government body. Back to Square 1 for all other future applicants.
Mr S. Debella and Mr. Bruce Beley were appointed to the 2 new spots on the Advisory Planning Board.
Clear plan for Duteau Creek
http://www.dailycourier.ca/article_280.php By Scott NeufeldFriday, June 16 After months of harsh criticism from rural water users who say they’re tired of paying higher rates without seeing any quality improvements, Greater Vernon Water has unveiled a new wrinkle in the Master Water Plan.The water utility has proposed an interim solution by building a dissolved air floatation facility at Headgates on Duteau Creek. Water project manager Jeremy Kinch said the proposed treatment option would result in significant improvement to water quality and prevent future boil water advisories.“This is our biggest source, our future source, it has the worst quality from an aesthetic perspective,” Kinch said. “(Duteau) is the key to the project as a whole.”The Greater Vernon Services Commission voted unanimously to go ahead with designing the facility which is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2007.“Certainly from a rural users’ point of view this is going to give them the same quality of water as the folks downtown,” electoral area C director Stan Field said after the meeting. “This is really good news.”Three different options were examined and the most expensive option was chosen. However, the costly option also provides the clearest water.The new option is expected to cost $19 million which can be paid for with money borrowed through the water referendum. As funds allow, the Duteau Creek plant would eventually be upgraded.“We’re not building something today that’s a throwaway,” Kinch said. Dissolved air floatation works by using tiny air bubbles to push particles through the water to the surface in large basins. The floating sludge is then skimmed from the top while the purified water is sucked through the bottom of the basin.The system is effective in removing turbidity, algae and bacteria, however, it’s not as effective as a treatment plant would be. According to the water utility’s figures, the average turbidity for the year would be 0.4 with dissolved air floatation, well below the Canadian drinking water standard of 1.0. However, during peak times it could rise above 6.0 stirring up a boil water advisory.Kinch said if the floatation system had been in place on Duteau Creek this year there would not have been a single boil water advisory to this point. The water utility announced yesterday that another boil water advisory had been placed on Duteau Creek.“During periods of high turbidity, particularly in July, we could possibly exceed 5 NTU for short durations,” Kinch said.Under the latest Master Water Plan, a full Duteau Creek water treatment plant was scheduled to be finished by the end of next year. However, the $30 million price tag and lack of government grants made it too costly to complete, he said. Building the plant at Duteau Creek means that other projects will be pushed further into the future. Kinch said those projects should still be completed by 2015 when the $103 million Master Water Plan is supposed to be finished.
Residents making waves over lake access
http://www.dailycourier.ca/article_308.php By David SkelhonMonday, June 26, 2006
Vernon residents will have better access to Okanagan Lake if city council approves a planner’s report at today’s meeting but this doesn’t sit well with some residents close to access sites.The four access sites recommended for improvement are Foster Road and Kennedy Lane (off Tronson Road) and Delcliffe Road and Whitepoint Road (off Eastside Road). The report recommends that none of the sites be used as launches for “motorized boats.” The sites are intended for locals to launch kayaks and canoes, although the report acknowledges some tourists will use them.Coun. Barry Beardsell said that there are about 50 access points along the lake but not all of them are practical for improvement. He said some of them have been taken over by adjacent land owners and he is concerned that public access to the lake is severely limited.“I’m strongly in favour of opening up these access points for the local population,” he said.Coun. Patrick Nicol agrees with Beardsell. “Most people think better lake access makes a lot of sense.” However, Nicol added that each case needs to be looked at individually.Some residents of Delcliffe Road are upset by the proposal. Resident Steve Lewis said, “we’re dead against it…these small ones (access sites) are going to cause a lot of trouble.”Lewis added, “I feel that they should sell it off and use the money to buy a parcel of land and develop that as a park.”His main concern is that the beach would be used for night-time parties.Dr. Don Lemiski, a Delcliffe resident for over 35 years, said that he supports public access in general, but doesn’t think development would be appropriate at the Delcliffe site.Also, he doesn’t believe that, “ the city has the resources to start policing, and equipping these places with sanitary facilities.” He said that the resources should be used instead to upgrade existing beaches.“There’s a tremendous jump from something that’s undeveloped to something that’s advertised as a destination beach,” he said.Like Lewis, Lemiski is worried about night-time parties.Council has committed an annual budget of $150,000 to the ongoing process of improving access. The intention is to reduce travel distances for residents wishing to launch boats.The planner’s report outlines the concerns of residents close to the access sites. There are safety and security issues and it recommends that a protocol is developed for “cooperation between the RCMP, City of Vernon Bylaw Enforcement, and a private security firm to be contracted to patrol the four sites as a pilot program for the first year of operation.”Parking is also an issue and recommendations restricting the number of parking spots and using a combination of bylaw enforcement and towing of illegally parked vehicles are proposed.
Vernon residents will have better access to Okanagan Lake if city council approves a planner’s report at today’s meeting but this doesn’t sit well with some residents close to access sites.The four access sites recommended for improvement are Foster Road and Kennedy Lane (off Tronson Road) and Delcliffe Road and Whitepoint Road (off Eastside Road). The report recommends that none of the sites be used as launches for “motorized boats.” The sites are intended for locals to launch kayaks and canoes, although the report acknowledges some tourists will use them.Coun. Barry Beardsell said that there are about 50 access points along the lake but not all of them are practical for improvement. He said some of them have been taken over by adjacent land owners and he is concerned that public access to the lake is severely limited.“I’m strongly in favour of opening up these access points for the local population,” he said.Coun. Patrick Nicol agrees with Beardsell. “Most people think better lake access makes a lot of sense.” However, Nicol added that each case needs to be looked at individually.Some residents of Delcliffe Road are upset by the proposal. Resident Steve Lewis said, “we’re dead against it…these small ones (access sites) are going to cause a lot of trouble.”Lewis added, “I feel that they should sell it off and use the money to buy a parcel of land and develop that as a park.”His main concern is that the beach would be used for night-time parties.Dr. Don Lemiski, a Delcliffe resident for over 35 years, said that he supports public access in general, but doesn’t think development would be appropriate at the Delcliffe site.Also, he doesn’t believe that, “ the city has the resources to start policing, and equipping these places with sanitary facilities.” He said that the resources should be used instead to upgrade existing beaches.“There’s a tremendous jump from something that’s undeveloped to something that’s advertised as a destination beach,” he said.Like Lewis, Lemiski is worried about night-time parties.Council has committed an annual budget of $150,000 to the ongoing process of improving access. The intention is to reduce travel distances for residents wishing to launch boats.The planner’s report outlines the concerns of residents close to the access sites. There are safety and security issues and it recommends that a protocol is developed for “cooperation between the RCMP, City of Vernon Bylaw Enforcement, and a private security firm to be contracted to patrol the four sites as a pilot program for the first year of operation.”Parking is also an issue and recommendations restricting the number of parking spots and using a combination of bylaw enforcement and towing of illegally parked vehicles are proposed.
Vernon Jubilee 'worst physical plant within IHA'
http://www.dailycourier.ca/article_313.php By Wayne EmdeTuesday, June 27, 2006
“We’re here to tweak your ears a little bit, to bring you up to speed,” said Dr. Chris Cunningham, Vernon Jubilee Hospital medical staff president, as he opened a presentation to Vernon city council on yesterday. His presentation focused on the projected population growth in Vernon, the physical facility at VJH, physician resources, and the need for political help.He outlined the current state of affairs at VJH, which has 31,000 Emergency Room visits a year, 5,500 to 6,000 surgeries and 60,000 radiological tests in what Murray Ramsden, the CEO of the Interior Health Authority, calls the “worst physical plant within IHA.”Dr. Cunningham pointed out that planning for the future is inadequate and that the IHA consultants have been told to keep inpatient beds at the same number in spite of population growth projections.“There are 34 fewer acute care beds and 17 fewer extended care beds now at VJH than there were in 2002,” he said, adding that they run between 120 and 140 per cent overcapacity.Dr. Peter King, VJH chief of emergency medicine said that a short term renovation to the emergency room, designed to alleviate gross overcrowding is months behind schedule. Currently the four operating rooms are used five days a week, but the lack of acute care beds has meant that non-surgical patients have been put into surgical beds, resulting in the postponement or cancellation of surgeries. “We already have unmet needs in orthopedics, for example, and patients are sent to Vancouver for surgery.” King described the emergency department as a piece of junk and that “it is embarrassing to treat patients there.”IHA planning consultants have also proposed no increase in the number of operating rooms for the proposed expansion of VJH. But the doctors say that eight are required to meet the demand. The proposed new building, built on the same grounds as VJH, will include an emergency ward, intensive care unit, imaging and outpatient beds.In a response to a question from Patrick Nicol, Dr. Cunningham said that a population based, age adjusted formula used to determine the number of beds in a hospital needs to be changed. Another problem facing VGH is the number of patients from outside Vernon who are treated at VGH. “Only 57 per cent of our surgery patients are from Vernon. When the patients go to other places, the funding stays in their home districts,” said Cunningham.Addressing a parallel problem, Dr. Ed Hardy, the VJH chair of recruitment said that the IHA doesn’t get involved in attracting family doctors because they don’t use the hospitals. However, to attract an orthopedic surgeon, for example, the IHA must be able to guarantee operating room time. It would be like trying to recruit Mario Andretti to your racing team and then telling him that he might get a car in two years, said Hardy.VJH currently needs another urologist, but the IHA has to approve the hiring. “We’re also competing with hospitals in Alberta,” said Hardy, “and they are upgrading their facilities while our physical plant needs work and we have patients in halls.”Dr. Mike Concannon, the VJH chief-elect of emergency medicine said that the facility is “too old, too decrepit and too small.” “The issue is we need not just new, but bigger. What we have now is inadequate for 2006. It won’t help if we make the emergency ward bigger without adding beds in the rest of the hospital.”Outside council chambers, Dr. Cunningham said that doctors had spent months and years dealing with the problems and that they need support from council after trying every internal avenue. “We’re not looking for answers today, but we want to initiate the process.” he said. “We need help to work through the political channels.”
“We’re here to tweak your ears a little bit, to bring you up to speed,” said Dr. Chris Cunningham, Vernon Jubilee Hospital medical staff president, as he opened a presentation to Vernon city council on yesterday. His presentation focused on the projected population growth in Vernon, the physical facility at VJH, physician resources, and the need for political help.He outlined the current state of affairs at VJH, which has 31,000 Emergency Room visits a year, 5,500 to 6,000 surgeries and 60,000 radiological tests in what Murray Ramsden, the CEO of the Interior Health Authority, calls the “worst physical plant within IHA.”Dr. Cunningham pointed out that planning for the future is inadequate and that the IHA consultants have been told to keep inpatient beds at the same number in spite of population growth projections.“There are 34 fewer acute care beds and 17 fewer extended care beds now at VJH than there were in 2002,” he said, adding that they run between 120 and 140 per cent overcapacity.Dr. Peter King, VJH chief of emergency medicine said that a short term renovation to the emergency room, designed to alleviate gross overcrowding is months behind schedule. Currently the four operating rooms are used five days a week, but the lack of acute care beds has meant that non-surgical patients have been put into surgical beds, resulting in the postponement or cancellation of surgeries. “We already have unmet needs in orthopedics, for example, and patients are sent to Vancouver for surgery.” King described the emergency department as a piece of junk and that “it is embarrassing to treat patients there.”IHA planning consultants have also proposed no increase in the number of operating rooms for the proposed expansion of VJH. But the doctors say that eight are required to meet the demand. The proposed new building, built on the same grounds as VJH, will include an emergency ward, intensive care unit, imaging and outpatient beds.In a response to a question from Patrick Nicol, Dr. Cunningham said that a population based, age adjusted formula used to determine the number of beds in a hospital needs to be changed. Another problem facing VGH is the number of patients from outside Vernon who are treated at VGH. “Only 57 per cent of our surgery patients are from Vernon. When the patients go to other places, the funding stays in their home districts,” said Cunningham.Addressing a parallel problem, Dr. Ed Hardy, the VJH chair of recruitment said that the IHA doesn’t get involved in attracting family doctors because they don’t use the hospitals. However, to attract an orthopedic surgeon, for example, the IHA must be able to guarantee operating room time. It would be like trying to recruit Mario Andretti to your racing team and then telling him that he might get a car in two years, said Hardy.VJH currently needs another urologist, but the IHA has to approve the hiring. “We’re also competing with hospitals in Alberta,” said Hardy, “and they are upgrading their facilities while our physical plant needs work and we have patients in halls.”Dr. Mike Concannon, the VJH chief-elect of emergency medicine said that the facility is “too old, too decrepit and too small.” “The issue is we need not just new, but bigger. What we have now is inadequate for 2006. It won’t help if we make the emergency ward bigger without adding beds in the rest of the hospital.”Outside council chambers, Dr. Cunningham said that doctors had spent months and years dealing with the problems and that they need support from council after trying every internal avenue. “We’re not looking for answers today, but we want to initiate the process.” he said. “We need help to work through the political channels.”
Local gov’t earnings top $17.8 million
By Scott NeufeldFriday, June 23, 2006, 12:01 AM http://www.dailycourier.ca/article_299.php
The final bill for the cost of local government has come in.Last year, it cost taxpayers $17.8 million to pay the wages of staff and remunerate local politicians for the Regional District of the North Okanagan, Coldstream and Vernon. The figure was reached by combining the wages and expenses of local government employees as well as the earnings and expenses of politicians from the three government bodies.Vernon councillor and Greater Vernon Services commissioner Barry Beardsell said the cost of local government placed on the taxpayer is out of control. He said he is particularly concerned about the $408,232.08 in expenses that staff at the three government bodies racked up last year.“I think it’s absolutely atrocious, the poor taxpayer,” he said.The biggest spenders were regional district staff who passed more than $206,000 in expenses on to the taxpayer. Beardsell said that some of the expenditures need to be explained.“One of the things is they are going to have to be accountable,” he said.Slightly more than $3 million of the $17.8 million was paid to the 32 government employees who earn more than $75,000 per year. Beardsell said it is these top salaries that are driving the high cost of governing.“A lot of it is duplication of services when you’ve got three different divisions,” he said. “I think it’s the high-end salaries that bring about so much of it.”According to the financial reports the price tag for three finance managers is $264,755.01, the cost for three city engineering chiefs is $259,877.41 and the cost for four chief administrative officers (including Ron Campbell’s severance) is $560,561.33. Those numbers don’t include several thousand dollars in expenses that each employee charged.Beardsell said he went to Victoria to speak with the provincial government and tell them that Vernon is over-governed. He said he’s still waiting for a reply.“It’s almost as if Victoria is saying they don’t want to deal with it,” he said. Out of the $17.8 million total, $458,038.22 went to pay local politicians and reimburse them for their expenses. Former Vernon mayor Sean Harvey had the highest earnings of any local politician taking in $34,888.63, not including expenses. Electoral Area C director and regional district chairman Stan Field was a close second, earning $32,430.12. In third was former Coldstream mayor Brian Postill who totaled $28,563.36.After former mayor Sean Harvey, who according to the city spent $12,384, the local politician with the highest expenditures was Coldstream councillor Glen Taylor who spent $7,197.59. Field was third highest at $4,655.68.
Heavy industry tax cut could impose burden on local taxpayers
By Grant Warkentin Mirror StaffJun 21 2006
A huge residential tax hike could be the consequence of a provincially-imposed tax reduction for heavy industry. "The recommendation by the Pulp and Paper Industry Advisory Committee to reduce major industry taxation by 50 per cent and then cap it would trigger an immediate 41 per cent increase to the residential taxpayer in our city - and we already have one of the lowest dependencies on major industry," said Mayor Roger McDonell in an April letter to Rich Coleman, the provincial minister of Forests and Range and minister responsible for Housing.
Based on recommendations by the B.C. Competition Council, the provincial government is considering imposing a tax cap for heavy industry, restricting the amount of taxes municipalities could collect from heavy industry such as Catalyst's Elk Falls paper mill. The city is hoping to discourage the province from going through with the plan because the tax cap would mean a tax hike for residential taxpayers. "The shortfall in revenues as a result of this taxation stimulus policy would fall primarily on the residential taxpayer to make up," McDonell said.
In response, Coleman told McDonell his concerns would be considered. "I will share your letter with my colleagues to ensure the points you raise are considered as we formulate our response to the competition council's recommendations," Coleman said. Campbell River isn't the only community concerned about the effects a tax cap could have on its economy. Corporate Services Director Tom Stevens recently attended a meeting with other member municipalities of the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) and he said the concern was unanimous.
"They all voiced concerns about the possibility of the provincial government introducing a tax cap," he said. Campbell River should get the support of the UBCM at the September annual convention, said Coun. Roy Grant. The UBCM represents every municipality in B.C. and resolutions passed at the annual convention can have an effect on provincial policy.
"I think this will send a clear message to the government of where we stand on this issue," said McDonell. In March, the competition council recommended the tax cap as a way to save the coastal forestry industry from falling into worse shape. "Unless these issues are addressed and the conditions are created to allow industry to be competitive, and to attract the capital required for reinvestment, the decline of the forest industry will continue," said council co-chair David Thompson in a news release. Catalyst has been asking the city for a decrease in taxes for several years. However, the city has a plan to gradually reduce them by 2010. "By the year 2010 Campbell River will be receiving only 20 per cent of its municipal tax revenue from major industry, whereas in 2003 we were at 32 per cent," McDonell said in a June 20 letter to the premier. "Were it not for the five-point plan-major industry would have paid $3.3 million more in municipal taxes since 2002."
Campbell river mirror
A huge residential tax hike could be the consequence of a provincially-imposed tax reduction for heavy industry. "The recommendation by the Pulp and Paper Industry Advisory Committee to reduce major industry taxation by 50 per cent and then cap it would trigger an immediate 41 per cent increase to the residential taxpayer in our city - and we already have one of the lowest dependencies on major industry," said Mayor Roger McDonell in an April letter to Rich Coleman, the provincial minister of Forests and Range and minister responsible for Housing.
Based on recommendations by the B.C. Competition Council, the provincial government is considering imposing a tax cap for heavy industry, restricting the amount of taxes municipalities could collect from heavy industry such as Catalyst's Elk Falls paper mill. The city is hoping to discourage the province from going through with the plan because the tax cap would mean a tax hike for residential taxpayers. "The shortfall in revenues as a result of this taxation stimulus policy would fall primarily on the residential taxpayer to make up," McDonell said.
In response, Coleman told McDonell his concerns would be considered. "I will share your letter with my colleagues to ensure the points you raise are considered as we formulate our response to the competition council's recommendations," Coleman said. Campbell River isn't the only community concerned about the effects a tax cap could have on its economy. Corporate Services Director Tom Stevens recently attended a meeting with other member municipalities of the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) and he said the concern was unanimous.
"They all voiced concerns about the possibility of the provincial government introducing a tax cap," he said. Campbell River should get the support of the UBCM at the September annual convention, said Coun. Roy Grant. The UBCM represents every municipality in B.C. and resolutions passed at the annual convention can have an effect on provincial policy.
"I think this will send a clear message to the government of where we stand on this issue," said McDonell. In March, the competition council recommended the tax cap as a way to save the coastal forestry industry from falling into worse shape. "Unless these issues are addressed and the conditions are created to allow industry to be competitive, and to attract the capital required for reinvestment, the decline of the forest industry will continue," said council co-chair David Thompson in a news release. Catalyst has been asking the city for a decrease in taxes for several years. However, the city has a plan to gradually reduce them by 2010. "By the year 2010 Campbell River will be receiving only 20 per cent of its municipal tax revenue from major industry, whereas in 2003 we were at 32 per cent," McDonell said in a June 20 letter to the premier. "Were it not for the five-point plan-major industry would have paid $3.3 million more in municipal taxes since 2002."
Campbell river mirror
Vernon Gun Robbery
http://www.castanet.net/cgi-bin2/newNews/news_list.cgi?method=show_story&id=19742&query=searchby Staff - Story: 19742June 27, 2006 / 8:33 am
A 27 year old male, walking home from work, was robbed at (what appears to be) gunpoint early this morning in downtown Vernon. Police responded to the call just after 2:00 AM. The victim stated he was walking home when approached by the suspect at the corner of 32nd St and 31st Ave. The suspect pointed what was described as a black handgun or taser at the victim and demanded he place his wallet on the sidewalk and walk away. The victim complied. He witnessed the robber pick up the wallet, run to a nearby vehicle and drive eastbound down 31st Ave. The vehicle is described as an import, either Toyota or Honda, hatchback, blue, mid -80's and dirty. The suspect is described as a caucasian male, medium build, short brown (afro style) hair, wearing a white ‘T’ shirt and blue jeans. No money was stolen however the victim’s wallet contained several credit cards. The victim was not hurt. Anyone who witnessed this robbery or may have information concerning the suspect is urged to call the Vernon RCMP Detachment or Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.
A 27 year old male, walking home from work, was robbed at (what appears to be) gunpoint early this morning in downtown Vernon. Police responded to the call just after 2:00 AM. The victim stated he was walking home when approached by the suspect at the corner of 32nd St and 31st Ave. The suspect pointed what was described as a black handgun or taser at the victim and demanded he place his wallet on the sidewalk and walk away. The victim complied. He witnessed the robber pick up the wallet, run to a nearby vehicle and drive eastbound down 31st Ave. The vehicle is described as an import, either Toyota or Honda, hatchback, blue, mid -80's and dirty. The suspect is described as a caucasian male, medium build, short brown (afro style) hair, wearing a white ‘T’ shirt and blue jeans. No money was stolen however the victim’s wallet contained several credit cards. The victim was not hurt. Anyone who witnessed this robbery or may have information concerning the suspect is urged to call the Vernon RCMP Detachment or Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.
Vernon council totally off base
http://www.vernonmorningstar.com/ EDITORIAL JUNE 28
One has to wonder if the problem in Greater Vernon governance is the City of Vernon? A compromise was found earlier this month that clarified how the Greater Vernon Services Commission operates and its relationship with its parent body, the North Okanagan Regional District. However, the city threw a wrench into the whole process Monday, by refusing to support the necessary bylaw changes. Apparently council doesn't believe the document is clear enough when it comes to duties GVSC can't perform. Yet, if you look at the section in question, it is fairly comprehensive. It states that GVSC doesn't have the authority to do a number of things, including policies for financial management, contracting, purchasing, communication and computer systems. How much more of an explanation does the city need? It's also questionable that the city's three NORD representatives raised their hands for the compromise deal in early June and yet they were among the ranks of council members opposing the bylaw Monday. At the time of the NORD vote, Coun. Pat Cochrane was confident the bylaw change would get the support of his council. Such moves will leave residents wondering if the politicians know what they're doing. Support for the bylaw amendment is coming from other NORD members so it appears Vernon is the odd jurisdiction out. By being difficult and nit-picky over wording, the city is not only jeopardizing GVSC's ability to provide services, but its entire relationship with the rest of the regional district. It's time for this entire debacle to end so our elected officials can get on to more important issues. Hopefully, the City of Vernon will agree and begin co-operating.
One has to wonder if the problem in Greater Vernon governance is the City of Vernon? A compromise was found earlier this month that clarified how the Greater Vernon Services Commission operates and its relationship with its parent body, the North Okanagan Regional District. However, the city threw a wrench into the whole process Monday, by refusing to support the necessary bylaw changes. Apparently council doesn't believe the document is clear enough when it comes to duties GVSC can't perform. Yet, if you look at the section in question, it is fairly comprehensive. It states that GVSC doesn't have the authority to do a number of things, including policies for financial management, contracting, purchasing, communication and computer systems. How much more of an explanation does the city need? It's also questionable that the city's three NORD representatives raised their hands for the compromise deal in early June and yet they were among the ranks of council members opposing the bylaw Monday. At the time of the NORD vote, Coun. Pat Cochrane was confident the bylaw change would get the support of his council. Such moves will leave residents wondering if the politicians know what they're doing. Support for the bylaw amendment is coming from other NORD members so it appears Vernon is the odd jurisdiction out. By being difficult and nit-picky over wording, the city is not only jeopardizing GVSC's ability to provide services, but its entire relationship with the rest of the regional district. It's time for this entire debacle to end so our elected officials can get on to more important issues. Hopefully, the City of Vernon will agree and begin co-operating.
Funding ensures shelter's survival
By David SkelhonWednesday, June 28, 2006 http://www.dailycourier.ca/article_314.php
Okanagan-Vernon MLA Tom Christensen announced yesterday that the Province would provide an additional $110,657 in funding for emergency shelter beds at the John Howard House. “Howard House is an important community resource to assist people in the Vernon area who would otherwise likely be homeless and I’m pleased that the province is helping the Society to continue its good work,” said Christensen.Howard House emergency shelter staff are delighted with the announcement. They said this will ensure the survival of the facility.“It changes everything,” said shelter executive director Barbara Levesque.Levesque said the shelter has been in financial trouble since the federally funded halfway house section closed. The shelter has 24 beds and last month served an average of 19 men per night and was full on several nights.“When the halfway house was shut down we only had funding for 10 emergency shelter beds left,” Levesque said. “Consequently we were losing a significant amount of money each month.” Blair Peden, president of the society’s board of directors, said “It’s wonderful. It’s something we have been trying to acquire for some time . . . it means we are going to survive.”Levesque said that potential donors were put off by the huge debt. “The hole was just too big but now I know other funding is going to come forward as well.” Levesque said this funding would come from private donors and other government programs. Ultimately, she said, “This isn’t about charity, it’s about creating opportunities for people who don’t have many.”“More than 80 per cent of the men are working. Many, many have addiction problems, many have mental health problems and some have both.” she said. Levesque said she would like to see more projects with life skills and literacy. She said there are opportunities in trades at the moment but some of the men need guidance.See said that Howard House had recently seen an increase in young people, age 19 to 23, seeking help. “These are a vulnerable group, easily influenced, often from unstable backgrounds.” She added, “There is always room to inspire young people to have their own apartment, or car or go on a vacation in Mexico.”Howard House has a second floor with 24 bedrooms that have been vacant since the closure of the halfway house.Peden said he would eventually like to see these used as part of a transitional living program, “for people who are really motivated to make positive changes in their lives.”“Residents would have their own, comfortable rooms with a TV,” he said, and the facility would be alcohol, drug and violence free. He said that statistics show it takes three to 12 months of stability before these men can start making their own way. “There's no quick fix,” he said.Peden said part of the facility could also be used to house women. The building is based on a World War I hospital and is built in the shape of an “H” and there is an opportunity to create separate wings.
Okanagan-Vernon MLA Tom Christensen announced yesterday that the Province would provide an additional $110,657 in funding for emergency shelter beds at the John Howard House. “Howard House is an important community resource to assist people in the Vernon area who would otherwise likely be homeless and I’m pleased that the province is helping the Society to continue its good work,” said Christensen.Howard House emergency shelter staff are delighted with the announcement. They said this will ensure the survival of the facility.“It changes everything,” said shelter executive director Barbara Levesque.Levesque said the shelter has been in financial trouble since the federally funded halfway house section closed. The shelter has 24 beds and last month served an average of 19 men per night and was full on several nights.“When the halfway house was shut down we only had funding for 10 emergency shelter beds left,” Levesque said. “Consequently we were losing a significant amount of money each month.” Blair Peden, president of the society’s board of directors, said “It’s wonderful. It’s something we have been trying to acquire for some time . . . it means we are going to survive.”Levesque said that potential donors were put off by the huge debt. “The hole was just too big but now I know other funding is going to come forward as well.” Levesque said this funding would come from private donors and other government programs. Ultimately, she said, “This isn’t about charity, it’s about creating opportunities for people who don’t have many.”“More than 80 per cent of the men are working. Many, many have addiction problems, many have mental health problems and some have both.” she said. Levesque said she would like to see more projects with life skills and literacy. She said there are opportunities in trades at the moment but some of the men need guidance.See said that Howard House had recently seen an increase in young people, age 19 to 23, seeking help. “These are a vulnerable group, easily influenced, often from unstable backgrounds.” She added, “There is always room to inspire young people to have their own apartment, or car or go on a vacation in Mexico.”Howard House has a second floor with 24 bedrooms that have been vacant since the closure of the halfway house.Peden said he would eventually like to see these used as part of a transitional living program, “for people who are really motivated to make positive changes in their lives.”“Residents would have their own, comfortable rooms with a TV,” he said, and the facility would be alcohol, drug and violence free. He said that statistics show it takes three to 12 months of stability before these men can start making their own way. “There's no quick fix,” he said.Peden said part of the facility could also be used to house women. The building is based on a World War I hospital and is built in the shape of an “H” and there is an opportunity to create separate wings.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)