Board debates chairman’s land

Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: February 18, 2010 6:00 PM

North Okanagan Regional District politicians insist a land use decision wasn’t influenced by the fact that it involved one of their own. In a 7-5 vote Wednesday, directors voted to send an Agricultural Land Reserve exclusion application to the Agricultural Land Commission for consideration. The application was made by Herman Halvorson, NORD chairman and rural Enderby director. “You treat him like everyone else,” said director Dee Wejr of the process staff and the board followed in reviewing the application. Halvorson, who left the room during board debate, wants to create one lot out of his 7.7 acres on Foxwood Road in Grindrod, while also dedicating a portion of land for park along the Shuswap River. NORD staff had recommended against sending the exclusion application to the ALC. “We can’t offer staff support for this because it’s in the ALR,” said Rob Smailes, planning and building general manager. However, a majority of the board opted to go against the staff recommendation and forward the proposal to the provincial agency. “The impact on agriculture will be minimal. There is limited farm potential,” said director Eugene Foisy.

Wejr supports the bid because it would create more greenspace in the Enderby area. “We’re finding access to the river with parking is a huge issue for us,” she said. Director Rick Fairbairn pointed out that an existing road goes down to the river and will provide parking for boating. “This is a natural fit for what’s happening in the area.” However, there was also stiff opposition to sending the application to the ALC. “This is a loss of prime agricultural land,” said director Buffy Baumbrough. Director Doug Dirk questioned the process. “Proper planning would identify where you want boat access and a park and not first-come, first serve (with subdivision proposals),” he said. There was also a concern that other property owners along the river may pursue subdivision. “We are probably setting a precedent,” said director Will Hansma. The ALC will make the final decision on whether the property is removed from the Agricultural Land Reserve.