BX governance opinions sought

By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: October 17, 2008

BX and Swan Lake residents are being urged to think about how their community should be governed in the future. The BX-Swan Lake Community Association will hold a public meeting on governance Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. at BX Elementary School. “We want to get as much information as possible out to residents on local governance options, whether it’s amalgamation with an existing municipality, incorporation or if there are any other options that can be explored,” said Ray Ivey, president of the association. “I guess status quo could also always be an option.” Currently, the community is represented by two directors on the North Okanagan Regional District board. Ivey says the association decided to provide information on the options because many residents are interested in governance. “There is certainly conversation about it. You hear people talking and asking questions,” he said. NORD recently decided to seek provincial government support for developing terms of reference for a governance study in the region. A questionnaire will also be distributed through the mail on the subject.

Residents of the BX-Swan lake and BX-Silver Star electoral areas will be asked two questions:

Do you want to join the City of Vernon (yes/no)? If no, would you prefer to: A) Remain as part of the regional district, or B) Incorporate as a separate municipality?

Among those scheduled to speak during the meeting Tuesday are Greg Betts, NORD’s electoral areas general manager, and Alan Hill, the former director for Okanagan Landing prior to it joining the City of Vernon in 1993. Also making a presentation will be Kim Flick, the city’s manager of planning and building services. “She will talk about the city’s annexation plans for Areas B and C,” said Ivey.