Council delays tourism decision

Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: August 11, 2009 7:00 PM

A demand to provide tourism services at the north end of Vernon isn’t getting immediate action.Coun. Mary-Jo O’Keefe asked her colleagues Monday to reconsider the closure of the north end tourist booth. But council, instead, asked city hall staff for a report before making a decision. In April, council opted to close the north-end visitor centre because of its poor condition. However, O’Keefe says that has left many tourists, and particularly Albertans, struggling for details on Vernon. “They don’t have the ability to receive any tourist information until they leave town,” she said, referring to the tourist booth at the south end.

However, staff claim challenges would ensue if the north end tourist booth was reopened. “Ninety per cent of the people stopping wanted washrooms and there is a lack of facilities,” said Leon Gous, chief administrative officer.Back in April, it was estimated that it would cost between $4,750 and $8,509 to get rid of the mould, as well as replace the air conditioners, flooring, drywall, painting and improve bathroom venting.Gous also pointed out that the land is outside of Vernon’s boundaries and a lease would be required with the owner — the Ministry of Transportation. O’Keefe isn’t convinced the old building has to be reopened, and says other options should be investigated, including setting up the city’s mobile visitor centre at the location to meet the needs of tourists. The mobile booth takes visitor centre staff and brochures to the beach or special events. It cost between $5,000 and $8,000 to purchase.