A proposed social housing project is generating some criticism for the City of Vernon. Some Greater Vernon Services Committee members question the city’s decision to allow the Vernon Native Housing Society to build a 40-unit affordable housing facility on land currently used for playground on 19th Avenue. “I like the project but I don’t like the location. I don’t like taking any of the park out of there,” said director Glen Taylor during a meeting Thursday. Taylor wonders why park space is being used for housing when much of the former sewer treatment plant site is sitting vacant next door. Director Wayne Lippert, though, says the old sewer plant property is earmarked for commercial uses and he defends plans for affordable housing where the playground is. “It seems like a site that’s suitable for a project like this,” said Lippert, who is also Vernon’s mayor.
Gary Corner, GVSC chairman, also questions the city’s actions. “At one time, this was envisioned to be a complete park,” he said. Eventually, the board was reminded it is being asked to consider a request to reduce development cost charges for construction, and not to comment on the project itself. “It’s not the role of the committee to critique this project. It’s a city approved project,” said director Pat Cochrane, who is also a Vernon councillor. Lippert also took a shot at GVSC for getting involved. “If this committee wanted a park, it would have done something about it,” he said.
Representatives for the Vernon Native Housing Society say they will try to preserve as much of the playground as possible, while enhancing green areas not currently used. “We could enhance what’s a problem with the crime situation,” said architect Phil MacDonald of plans for an enhanced trail along Vernon Creek. “It’s dark there and there aren’t people there. Get some people in there and they will look after it.” The society has met with nearby residents. “They were happy about the improvements we are talking about,” said Kane Bentsen, development consultant.
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