Clinic plans under review

Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: March 23, 2010 7:00 PM

Money still exists for redevelopment of a downtown Vernon lot, but plans may be scaled back. Council voted Monday to keep $199,500 in the 2010 budget for the city-owned medical clinic property on 31st Avenue. But staff has been told to review potential uses there. “The option put forward by staff was for a full park but there’s been discussion from other groups about what could happen there,” said Mayor Wayne Lippert. The options could include everything from limited landscaping and some parking to a large park. “I’d like to go to the Chevy version of a little trail through there,” said Coun. Bob Spiers. “I find it (full park) unnecessary and a lot of the public at the budget hearing had problems with it.” However, others appear to be committed to the original concept that would eventually include a playground, public washrooms and secure bike parking.

“People want the city to be green and to do things downtown and without money, we can’t do that,” said Coun. Jack Gilroy. One of the goals behind the project has been to create a pedestrian link between Cenotaph Park and the civic complex. “I want to see a vibrant downtown,” said Coun. Mary-Jo O’Keefe. “I’d hate for us to take apart a plan until we’ve given it a chance to succeed.” There was some concern about what would happen on the property if no money was budgeted for landscaping. “I’d hate to see a waste land when that building comes down,” said Coun. Shawn Lee. Leon Gous, chief administrative officer, suggested that the money designated for park development could go towards demolition of the clinic instead of the city having to tap into reserves for that expense. Removal of the building is expected to cost about $507,000. The city purchased the medical clinic property for $1.4 million.