Multi-year operating budget part of strategy

  By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: September 14, 2012 1:00 AM
Vernon politicians have established a busy schedule for the remainder of their term. Council has adopted a strategic plan for 2012 to 2014 and it includes a variety of objectives. “It encapsulates what council has indicated to staff on what its priorities are,” said Mayor Rob Sawatzky. “A plan doesn’t guarantee one will be successful but a lack of one guarantees that you won’t be successful.” Among the items outlined in the strategic plan are developing a multi-year operating budget, determining the future of O’Keefe Ranch, integrating all firefighters into one team and amending bylaws to promote redevelopment in targeted areas. With the next election in November 2014, having sufficient time to accomplish goals could be a challenge. The other hurdle to overcome is the availability of funds to initiate projects. “We have to balance wishes with the realities of the day and that is a continual process,” said Sawatzky. The strategic plan has not received the blessing of Coun. Bob Spiers. “The idea of a wish list that we may or may not address, I can’t support,” he said. “There are items here I did not support and I would not support in the future.” The strategic plan will be available at vernon.ca.