Developers question city

Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: January 13, 2011 6:00 PM
The City of Vernon is perceived to be competing directly with developers.  A draft value for money review of the planning and building services department indicates some developers believe they are going head-to-head against the city and its policies.  “Hesperia, Vernon’s arm’s length company, was developed to provide affordable housing during prosperous economic times,” states the report from Acton Consulting, which is overseeing the review.  “Another source of confusion for developers is the city’s real estate manager. There is uncertainty about the manager’s job which has led to speculation in the community that the city may be in competition with the developers.”  The consultant recommends that prior decisions be reconsidered to ensure they reflect current council’s intentions. Mayor Wayne Lippert believes that step is necessary. “A business background says you should always review what you are doing,” he said. Suggestions that the Hesperia housing initiative may compete with developers is fair comment, according to Lippert.“It’s something we’ve heard and something we’re addressing,” he said.However, Lippert insists the goal of Hesperia was to set aside land for a mix of commercial housing and not for the city to actually develop the site.“We have plans and we know what we want to happen there but that’s as far as we should go,” he said, adding that the Okanagan Avenue site could be sold.“Let the developers take over.”

In terms of historical council decisions impacting current planning and building processes, the consultant points to the licence and permit fee structure.  “The fees are front loaded so applicants pay fees at the onset of applications. This can create additional work if the application is not approved or if there are unanticipated fees later in the process,” states the draft report.  The consultant also highlights differences among current council members about Vernon’s future.  “The divergence in opinion makes it difficult for council to collectively move toward a unified vision for the city’s future.”  Coun. Bob Spiers would not speculate on what previous council decisions may be revisited.  “Until we see the final report, it’s too early to say,” he said.  The value for money review of the planning and building services department should be completed in February.