Restructuring of Greater Vernon’s parks, recreation and culture function is moving ahead. Representatives from Coldstream, Vernon and the two electoral areas met with facilitator Allan Neilson-Welch Tuesday to discuss potential changes to how parks and recreational facilities are operated. “Today’s meeting brings us closer to wrapping up the service review and rebuilding the service,” said Neilson-Welch. “I believe we can rebuild this service and put something sustainable in place.” As part of the initiative, some facilities would remain regional in scope, including the Performing Arts Centre and Wesbild Centre. Some parks, such as Kal and Kin beaches, would also be part of a joint function, while others, such as Polson and Creekside parks, would become the responsibility of their local jurisdiction.
One issue of contention is the Vernon Recreation Complex and whether it will be part of a future regional model, or if it will come completely under the mandate of the city, which owns the building. “Our hope is it can be included in the regional function,” said Jim Garlick, Coldstream mayor. “It’s the original part that brought it all together.” Vernon has indicated it wants responsibility for the complex and it prefers a model where the other jurisdictions would provide operating funds based on 2009 levels (as well as the cost of living). If the city does take over the complex, Coldstream wants contributions cut in half because it will no longer have a role in governance there. “If we can’t reach agreement on this, we’re likely to leave it at the regional table,” said Leon Gous, the city’s chief administrative officer.
Another matter that must still be worked out is the governance of any restructured service. Discussions will also be held about arts and culture, and whether those services are provided regionally or by Vernon and Coldstream. Maria Besso, a Coldstream councillor, is concerned there has been little focus on arts and culture to date. “We don’t want that part left as an orphan. We want to make sure they’re funded,” she said. The goal is to have a restructured function ready by Dec. 31.
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The Last Agenda report titled Asset Distribution & Cost Sharing is not yet posted at NORD website but this 10 page report by Nilson-Welch that was the basis for the meeting described above will be linked here when it is. (The June 4 minutes have yet to be posted also)
Service Review: Greater Vernon Parks
Agendas
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