A majority of Vernon politicians are staying firm behind a process that
doesn’t directly have voters going to the polls. The city is starting to take public heat over a decision not to hold a referendum to borrow $20 million for a new library/administration building. Instead, an alternate approval process will be followed, meaning borrowing can only be sidelined if 10 per cent of voters sign a petition. “A referendum would have been preferable but with the timelines involved, we’re risking the Okanagan Regional Library contribution,” said Coun. Pat Cochrane. ORL wants a financial commitment from the city by September, and there is concern that delaying the project could jeopardize accessing government grants. “It seems underhanded but it’s a good way to get it going because we want it done,” said Coun. Jack Gilroy of the alternate approval process. Coun. Patrick Nicol denies the city is trying to move the project ahead without giving residents a say. “We are being upfront about it,” he said, adding that the real focus should be on the benefits of the buildings. “We need a library and the RCMP need expanded space.”The lone voice against an alternate approval process has been Coun. Barry Beardsell, who is being contacted by residents. “I’m hearing a lot of annoyance that council would consider a counter-petition,” he said, adding that a full-scale referendum is the proper way to determine public opinion. “There was all that talk in the last election about openness and responsiveness.” And in terms of possibly losing out on government grants, Beardsell claims that is an excuse. “This provincial government has not been kind to Greater Vernon when it comes to grants,” he said. Mayor Wayne Lippert has also been contacted by residents, but he says they are just seeking information. “People don’t understand what is going on. Once we explain what we’re doing, it takes away a lot of concern,” he said. Councillors Buffy Baumbrough and Juliette Cunningham could not be reached for comment.
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