Landing meeting added to fire plan schedule

Published: April 16, 2009 6:00 PM By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star

A plan that could directly impact fire services in Okanagan Landing is going before residents of that area. Vernon council has decided to hold a third information session on the proposed fire services business plan and it will be held April 29 at 6 p.m. at Paddlewheel Park Hall. “Overwhelmingly, they (Okanagan Landing) are the citizens that take the greatest interest,” said Coun. Patrick Nicol of the need for a meeting there. The previous two meetings were held at city hall and the recreation complex. The business plan includes the possibility of the Okanagan Landing fire hall not operating independently and coming under the administrative structure of the downtown fire hall. If integration were to occur, some full-time, paid firefighters could be stationed at the Landing hall with volunteers.A public input meeting on the fire service business plan will be held May 7 at 6 p.m. at Wesbild Centre.

Schubert Receives Funding

A seniors’ recreational facility will get a helping hand from Vernon taxpayers. City council has agreed to provide the Schubert Centre with $15,000 a year for three years to assist with the non-profit society’s financial difficulties. “The Schubert Centre is a service to our community that should be supported,” said Coun. Bob Spiers. The money will come from the city’s social responsibility fund, which generates its money from casino revenue. The Schubert Centre is facing a $162,000 shortfall as a result of government policies and upgrades to its 30th Avenue facility.

Hospital Campaign Endorsed

The City of Vernon is getting behind improved medical equipment at the local hospital. Council has passed a resolution supporting the Building A Tower Of Care campaign at Vernon Jubilee Hospital and it will fly banners promoting the effort. “It’s a good thing for Vernon and the North Okanagan.” said Mayor Wayne Lippert of the campaign. “It’s something everyone can support.” The goal of the Vernon Jubilee Hospital Foundation is to raise $7 million for medical equipment in the new patient care tower.