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Showing posts with label 2013 gvac budget. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2013 gvac budget. Show all posts
Thursday, April 11, 2013
Friday, March 22, 2013
Wesbild Centre contract nearing end
By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: March 22, 2013 1:00 AM
The future name of a Greater Vernon recreational facility remains in limbo. It’s still unknown if Wesbild Holdings will renew a contract for the naming rights of Wesbild Centre on 43rd Avemue. “We are still talking with Wesbild,” said Tannis Nelson, with the Regional District of North Okanagan. “We expect to have something wrapped up by the end of the month.” In 2008, Wesbild Holdings, owner of the Predator Ridge
and Turtle Mountain developments, paid $200,000 over the next five years
for naming rights ($40,000 a year) for the multi-use facility. The current contract, which has come to an end, also called for an additional five-year option for $250,000. However, Wesbild Holdings officials stated in January
that they had concerns about what they consider a lack of events and
marketing at the multi-use facility. And those concerns continue to exist. “We want to see different things there to add to the value,” said Brad Pelletier, Wesbild Holdings vice-president. “I will look at renewing this (contract) but I have also said they can look at another partner.” Pelletier would not speculate on when his company may make a final decision on naming rights. “The timing is up to them,” he said of RDNO. Nelson would not comment on whether other businesses have been approached about the name. “We have talked to Wesbild Holdings about marketing and we continue to look for events for our market size,” she said.
Thursday, March 21, 2013
Budget gets go-ahead from North Okanagan politicians
By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: March 21, 2013 2:00 AM
The Regional District of North Okanagan's budget has grown slightly. On Wednesday, directors adopted the 2013 budget, which will see the overall tax requisition climb by $251,000 or 1.28 per cent. "You can always do better but it's pretty well done," said chairperson Patrick Nicol of the process that developed the budget. Each community is requisitioned taxes based on services it receives from RDNO, and that varies. In fact, the budget impact can change from
neighbourhood to neighbourhood depending on what services are in place
such as street lights and recycling. Some functions have decreased their tax requisitions or held the line while others have jumped. "The largest increase is transit and that relates to
the second bus to the University of B.C. Okanagan," said David Sewell,
general manager of finance. The budget for Greater Vernon parks and recreation is up 1.8 per cent. "There are inflationary pressures there," said Sewell.
Sunday, March 10, 2013
Water rate hike on tap
By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: March 10, 2013 1:00 AM
Customers who rarely turn on the tap will start paying more for water. Greater Vernon water rates are climbing three per cent across the board, including for those who only use up to 20 cubic metres. Previously they paid no consumption fee. “I know we need the money but these are the people who use the least amount of water,” said director Bob Spiers, who opposed the 2013 utility budget. However, Regional District of North Okanagan staff defend placing a fee on low consumption. “There’s a cost to maintain the service, whether people use it or not,” said Dale McTaggart, engineering general manager. “Water mains break and there is a need for a water treatment plant.”
Support came from director Jim Garlick. “Whether you use zero water, there is a cost to bring the water to the house. You have access to the service,” he said. Much of the money will go towards aging infrastructure. “The reason we’re in this situation is B.C. is unique in North America,” said director Rob Sawatzky. “We’re addressing a situation other jurisdictions addressed years ago and we’re having to catch up.” Six businesses, including golf courses and nurseries, will see the rate for irrigation water climb 50 per cent. “We want to bring them up so they eventually pay the commercial rate,” said McTaggart.
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Don Quixote Note:
As to the idea that rates are increasing 3% across the board including those who only use 20 cubic metres look at table at left and you will see that the customer who uses 20m3 per quarter will have a $16.38 increase or 20.97%. Percentage wise he will have the highest increase of all users. On an annual basis he will see his water bill increase $65.52 from $312.48 to 378.00. (20.97%)
Please check out post http://vernonblog.blogspot.ca/2013/03/water-rates-effective-april-1-2013-if.html to see water rates effect on 4 different customers. ( Lowest actual % age increase of 8.71% goes to a high consumption user who uses 584m3 annually compared to our frugal consumer who only uses 20m3 Quarterly. (80 m3 annually)
A Calculator (on right side of BLOG) where you can interactively enter your quarterly consumption totals in m3 and see your $ increase can be found at: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0AqjuHhD4a7O5dDFoRWFQXzlOd2tlSHJjb0dDOUEzWVE&usp=sharing
Rate Changes in 2013 for residential Water customers
Customers who rarely turn on the tap will start paying more for water. Greater Vernon water rates are climbing three per cent across the board, including for those who only use up to 20 cubic metres. Previously they paid no consumption fee. “I know we need the money but these are the people who use the least amount of water,” said director Bob Spiers, who opposed the 2013 utility budget. However, Regional District of North Okanagan staff defend placing a fee on low consumption. “There’s a cost to maintain the service, whether people use it or not,” said Dale McTaggart, engineering general manager. “Water mains break and there is a need for a water treatment plant.”
Support came from director Jim Garlick. “Whether you use zero water, there is a cost to bring the water to the house. You have access to the service,” he said. Much of the money will go towards aging infrastructure. “The reason we’re in this situation is B.C. is unique in North America,” said director Rob Sawatzky. “We’re addressing a situation other jurisdictions addressed years ago and we’re having to catch up.” Six businesses, including golf courses and nurseries, will see the rate for irrigation water climb 50 per cent. “We want to bring them up so they eventually pay the commercial rate,” said McTaggart.
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| Quarterly Water Rate changes at Different consumption levels. |
As to the idea that rates are increasing 3% across the board including those who only use 20 cubic metres look at table at left and you will see that the customer who uses 20m3 per quarter will have a $16.38 increase or 20.97%. Percentage wise he will have the highest increase of all users. On an annual basis he will see his water bill increase $65.52 from $312.48 to 378.00. (20.97%)
Please check out post http://vernonblog.blogspot.ca/2013/03/water-rates-effective-april-1-2013-if.html to see water rates effect on 4 different customers. ( Lowest actual % age increase of 8.71% goes to a high consumption user who uses 584m3 annually compared to our frugal consumer who only uses 20m3 Quarterly. (80 m3 annually)
A Calculator (on right side of BLOG) where you can interactively enter your quarterly consumption totals in m3 and see your $ increase can be found at: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0AqjuHhD4a7O5dDFoRWFQXzlOd2tlSHJjb0dDOUEzWVE&usp=sharing
Rate Changes in 2013 for residential Water customers
- Base rate has increased from $78.12 per quarter to $80.50
- Tier A First 10m3 per quarter charged at 50 cent/m3 = $5.00 per quarter. (free last year)
- Tier B Second 10m3 per quarter charged at 90 cent/m3 = $9.00 per quarter. (free last year)
- Tier C 21-40m3 1.00/m3 (98 cents in 2012)
- Tier D 41-80m3 1.25/m3 (1.20 cents in 2012)
- Tier E over 80 m3 1.80/m3 (1.74 cents in 2012)
Friday, March 01, 2013
Playground equipment gets upgrade at Vernon park
A popular attraction for Vernon children is getting a facelift. The Regional District of North Okanagan is moving ahead with changes to the playground at Kin Beach. “Part of the upgrade will include retiring the existing merry-go-round, in the name of safety, and upgrading it to the CSA-approved Dynamo merry-go-round,” said Tannis Nelson, community development co-ordinator. “The existing playground will also be getting new crusher-chip surfacing and curbing.” The renovations are expected to start in mid-March and be completed by early to mid-April. “The playground will be closed during this time,” said Nelson.
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Don Quixote Note:
Tuesday, December 18, 2012 - 1:00 pm - Special Agenda P. 29-32 have a list of 2013 Capital Projects for Parks. This $50,000 item is on page 29. $20,000 appears to have been expended in 2012 and the balance is for completion of this project.
Tuesday, December 18, 2012 - 1:00 pm - Special Agenda P. 29-32 have a list of 2013 Capital Projects for Parks. This $50,000 item is on page 29. $20,000 appears to have been expended in 2012 and the balance is for completion of this project.
Friday, January 04, 2013
Community Gardens Sprout Staff Request
Written by Peter McIntyre 107.5 KISSFM Friday, 04 January 2013 06:01
Interest in community gardens is growing in Vernon—so much so that local government is being asked to make an investment in staff. Spokesperson Wendy Aasen has asked the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee for an extra ten thousand dollars for coordination of volunteers and administration of the gardens in East Hill, West Vernon, and Patchwork Community Farms on the Okanagan College site. She told the directors,"We really think this is a small investment with lots of pay off to the community." Aasen says one of their partners, the Kindale Developmental Association, is willing to take on the administration duties. GVAC will discuss the request at its next meeting. Aasen says most of the garden participants, who pay a fee for the service, are residents who don't have room for a garden, and do it for food and recreation purposes.
Interest in community gardens is growing in Vernon—so much so that local government is being asked to make an investment in staff. Spokesperson Wendy Aasen has asked the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee for an extra ten thousand dollars for coordination of volunteers and administration of the gardens in East Hill, West Vernon, and Patchwork Community Farms on the Okanagan College site. She told the directors,"We really think this is a small investment with lots of pay off to the community." Aasen says one of their partners, the Kindale Developmental Association, is willing to take on the administration duties. GVAC will discuss the request at its next meeting. Aasen says most of the garden participants, who pay a fee for the service, are residents who don't have room for a garden, and do it for food and recreation purposes.
Wednesday, January 02, 2013
Arena name left on thin ice
By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: January 02, 2013 1:00 AM
Wesbild Centre could lose its name over an apparent lack of events. Wesbild Holdings, a development company, says it will only consider renewing a naming contract if the Regional District of North Okanagan markets the 43rd Avenue multi-use facility more aggressively. “Other than the Vipers, there’s not a lot of programs there. There needs to be value for the investment,” said Brad Pelletier, Wesbild vice-president. “The value has to do with how the tenant (RDNO) uses the building. What’s the value of Rogers Arena if the Vancouver Canucks didn’t play there and they didn’t run concerts? It would just be a building with a name on it.” In 2008, Wesbild Holdings, owner of the Predator Ridge and Turtle Mountain developments, agreed to pay $200,000 over the next five years for naming rights ($40,000 a year) for the multi-use facility. The contract, which ends in early 2013, also called for an additional five-year option for $250,000. “We are open to it. We are considering it,” said Pelletier, who confirms the regional district can also solicit other companies. “If we invest in it, we want programs the citizens of Vernon desire. Wesbild did this (contract) with the best of intentions and to be a good corporate citizen.” Jim Garlick, a Greater Vernon Advisory Committee director, is familiar with concerns about bookings at Wesbild Centre. “It’s been a problem with the building,” he said. “It was built on the premise of being an activity centre but it hasn’t turned out that way.” Garlick says one of the challenges is Vernon is halfway between Kelowna and Kamloops and those larger cities are able to attract more concerts and other events. “It’s hard to compete in that market.” Penticton is a similar sized community and it draws a number of events, but Garlick believes there are historical factors at play. “Penticton is set up for tourists in a huge way compared to us.” But Garlick admits Wesbild Holdings’ concerns need to be considered. “It’s something to look at — whether there can be better use of the facility,” he said, adding, though, that any revenue generated for naming rights must be balanced against the cost of marketing. “There are other organizations that have shown an interest in the name. The main thing is to have facilities with options residents in the community want like skating or hockey.”
Wesbild Centre could lose its name over an apparent lack of events. Wesbild Holdings, a development company, says it will only consider renewing a naming contract if the Regional District of North Okanagan markets the 43rd Avenue multi-use facility more aggressively. “Other than the Vipers, there’s not a lot of programs there. There needs to be value for the investment,” said Brad Pelletier, Wesbild vice-president. “The value has to do with how the tenant (RDNO) uses the building. What’s the value of Rogers Arena if the Vancouver Canucks didn’t play there and they didn’t run concerts? It would just be a building with a name on it.” In 2008, Wesbild Holdings, owner of the Predator Ridge and Turtle Mountain developments, agreed to pay $200,000 over the next five years for naming rights ($40,000 a year) for the multi-use facility. The contract, which ends in early 2013, also called for an additional five-year option for $250,000. “We are open to it. We are considering it,” said Pelletier, who confirms the regional district can also solicit other companies. “If we invest in it, we want programs the citizens of Vernon desire. Wesbild did this (contract) with the best of intentions and to be a good corporate citizen.” Jim Garlick, a Greater Vernon Advisory Committee director, is familiar with concerns about bookings at Wesbild Centre. “It’s been a problem with the building,” he said. “It was built on the premise of being an activity centre but it hasn’t turned out that way.” Garlick says one of the challenges is Vernon is halfway between Kelowna and Kamloops and those larger cities are able to attract more concerts and other events. “It’s hard to compete in that market.” Penticton is a similar sized community and it draws a number of events, but Garlick believes there are historical factors at play. “Penticton is set up for tourists in a huge way compared to us.” But Garlick admits Wesbild Holdings’ concerns need to be considered. “It’s something to look at — whether there can be better use of the facility,” he said, adding, though, that any revenue generated for naming rights must be balanced against the cost of marketing. “There are other organizations that have shown an interest in the name. The main thing is to have facilities with options residents in the community want like skating or hockey.”
Sunday, December 23, 2012
Cash provided for archeological study
By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: December 23, 2012 1:00 AM
Locating and preserving First Nations artifacts will be critical if a sports complex proceeds. The Greater Vernon Advisory Committee will provide Okanagan College with $10,000 for an archeological study on the 10-acre College Way property designated for a running track and sports field. “The province has said that site must go through the process,” said Jim Garlick, GVAC director. “The study will determine if there are any artifacts. With construction of the grid road, we found arrows. They were catalogued and the project moved on.” The archeological study, though, depends on the sports complex actually proceeding to construction. “We’re not going to spend the $10,000 if the referendum doesn’t go ahead,” said David Sewell, general manager, of a possible negative public vote in April. The total cost for the phase one archeological assessment is $19,000 while if artifacts are found, a second phase could be $14,000. “Okanagan College will be consulting with the Okanagan Indian band, applying for a heritage inspection permit and then hiring a consultant to conduct the archeological assessment,” said Tannis Nelson, a community development co-ordinator.
Locating and preserving First Nations artifacts will be critical if a sports complex proceeds. The Greater Vernon Advisory Committee will provide Okanagan College with $10,000 for an archeological study on the 10-acre College Way property designated for a running track and sports field. “The province has said that site must go through the process,” said Jim Garlick, GVAC director. “The study will determine if there are any artifacts. With construction of the grid road, we found arrows. They were catalogued and the project moved on.” The archeological study, though, depends on the sports complex actually proceeding to construction. “We’re not going to spend the $10,000 if the referendum doesn’t go ahead,” said David Sewell, general manager, of a possible negative public vote in April. The total cost for the phase one archeological assessment is $19,000 while if artifacts are found, a second phase could be $14,000. “Okanagan College will be consulting with the Okanagan Indian band, applying for a heritage inspection permit and then hiring a consultant to conduct the archeological assessment,” said Tannis Nelson, a community development co-ordinator.
Facility planning impacting gallery activities
By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: December 23, 2012 1:00 AM
Planning for a new home apparently has financial implications for the Vernon Public Art Gallery. VPAG asked for a 2013 operating grant of $200,000 from the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee. But it will get $177,625, a 1.5 per cent hike over 2012. “Our request was based on a long-term plan and working towards a new facility,” said Dauna Kennedy Grant, executive director. “We are putting a lot of resources towards the facility and to go out and do fundraising, there aren’t the resources.” Mike Macnabb, GVAC chairperson, defends the 2013 operating grant for the gallery. “The budget gives the capacity they currently have,” he said. GVAC also wants any third-party grants received by VPAG returned to taxpayers, which will reduce the $177,625 commitment. Kennedy Grant continues to push GVAC to make a decision on when there may be a referendum on a new gallery. “We are really stretched and we need to know how long we will be stretched before we are on the radar,” she said. GVAC will consider a site identified by the City of Vernon for an art gallery. A plan will then be developed towards addressing the future of the art gallery once Greater Vernon has a new cultural service. GVAC’s draft budget provides $173,600 in operating funds to the Greater Vernon Museum, a 1.5 per cent increase. The museum requested $189,214. Grants for two outside agencies will remain the same as last year — $32,500 for the Okanagan Science Centre and $15,000 for Gallery Vertigo.
Planning for a new home apparently has financial implications for the Vernon Public Art Gallery. VPAG asked for a 2013 operating grant of $200,000 from the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee. But it will get $177,625, a 1.5 per cent hike over 2012. “Our request was based on a long-term plan and working towards a new facility,” said Dauna Kennedy Grant, executive director. “We are putting a lot of resources towards the facility and to go out and do fundraising, there aren’t the resources.” Mike Macnabb, GVAC chairperson, defends the 2013 operating grant for the gallery. “The budget gives the capacity they currently have,” he said. GVAC also wants any third-party grants received by VPAG returned to taxpayers, which will reduce the $177,625 commitment. Kennedy Grant continues to push GVAC to make a decision on when there may be a referendum on a new gallery. “We are really stretched and we need to know how long we will be stretched before we are on the radar,” she said. GVAC will consider a site identified by the City of Vernon for an art gallery. A plan will then be developed towards addressing the future of the art gallery once Greater Vernon has a new cultural service. GVAC’s draft budget provides $173,600 in operating funds to the Greater Vernon Museum, a 1.5 per cent increase. The museum requested $189,214. Grants for two outside agencies will remain the same as last year — $32,500 for the Okanagan Science Centre and $15,000 for Gallery Vertigo.
Naming rights factor in budget
By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: December 23, 2012 1:00 AM
Possibly losing its current name is one of the financial pressures facing Wesbild Centre. The proposed 2013 budget for the multi-use facility inssdicates a $39,275 loss in revenue. Among the factors is the expiration of the Wesbild naming rights contract. “Our staff are currently investigating that matter,” said Keith Pinkoski, parks planner. In 2008, Wesbild, a development company, agreed to pay $200,000 over the next five years for naming rights ($40,000 a year). The contract also called for an additional five-year option for $250,000. If there is a new naming rights contract, either with Wesbild or another party, those funds would be considered revenue and the budget would be adjusted. Other factors negatively impacting revenue for 2013 are fewer Vernon Vipers home games, higher utility costs, parking maintenance and a decrease in ice rentals. The proposed facility budget includes $89,564 in capital items, including concession equipment and audio equipment. There is $30,000 to replace curbs damaged by snow plows and a number of dead trees. “It’s a prominent location to have that kind of deterioration,” said director Bob Fleming, who questions what standards for landscaping are being followed. “Money is being spent to maintain the place but a whole section of trees is dead.” The proposed 2013 budget calls for Wesbild Centre’s tax requisition to increase 2.6 per cent. But any operating surplus from 2012 will help off-set taxes.
Possibly losing its current name is one of the financial pressures facing Wesbild Centre. The proposed 2013 budget for the multi-use facility inssdicates a $39,275 loss in revenue. Among the factors is the expiration of the Wesbild naming rights contract. “Our staff are currently investigating that matter,” said Keith Pinkoski, parks planner. In 2008, Wesbild, a development company, agreed to pay $200,000 over the next five years for naming rights ($40,000 a year). The contract also called for an additional five-year option for $250,000. If there is a new naming rights contract, either with Wesbild or another party, those funds would be considered revenue and the budget would be adjusted. Other factors negatively impacting revenue for 2013 are fewer Vernon Vipers home games, higher utility costs, parking maintenance and a decrease in ice rentals. The proposed facility budget includes $89,564 in capital items, including concession equipment and audio equipment. There is $30,000 to replace curbs damaged by snow plows and a number of dead trees. “It’s a prominent location to have that kind of deterioration,” said director Bob Fleming, who questions what standards for landscaping are being followed. “Money is being spent to maintain the place but a whole section of trees is dead.” The proposed 2013 budget calls for Wesbild Centre’s tax requisition to increase 2.6 per cent. But any operating surplus from 2012 will help off-set taxes.
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
GVAC Directors Put In Marathon Session
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| GVAC chair Mike Macnabb) |
At least one portion of the regional tax bill is set to climb as directors have given preliminary approval to a 1.87% hike in the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee budget. Chair Mike Macnabb says a marathon session lasting more than five hours Tuesday focused primarily on the various parks and rec functions. "For the Performing Arts Centre it's a 0% budget increase, and it looks like a 2.6% increase for the Multiplex (Wesbild Centre)." Macnabb says there's still a lot of work before a 2013 budget is reached, saying this is only the first kick at it. Vernon director Rob Sawatzky says staff also presented options for trimming the cost of the proposed sports complex by Okanagan College. "We we're getting towards the end of five straight hours at that time and it was quite a bit of information, so we elected to study the information." The college facility, which will be the focus of a referendum in April, will be discussed at the next GVAC meeting January 3rd.
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Don Quixote Note: Below is a history of the GVAC portion of the RDNO requisition. It will be updated when the 2013 budget is adopted.
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
Name Change For Wesbild Centre?
Written by Peter McIntyre 107.5 KISSFM Tuesday, 18 December 2012 06:01 
There could be a new name on Vernon's main sporting facility by next year. A five year naming rights deal for Wesbild Centre is ending, and regional district staff are in negotiations for a new pact. The real estate development company has been paying RDNO $40,000 a year after a $200,000 deal in 2008. At the time, Wesbild also had a five year option to extend the sponsorship. Meantime, local politicians will be looking over Greater Vernon's proposed 2013 parks, rec and culture budget at a special meeting this afternoon. Staff are recommending a 1.87% increase in spending next year, most of which is due to wage hikes of 1.5 percent, and to cover costs for the sports complex referendum in April.
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There could be a new name on Vernon's main sporting facility by next year. A five year naming rights deal for Wesbild Centre is ending, and regional district staff are in negotiations for a new pact. The real estate development company has been paying RDNO $40,000 a year after a $200,000 deal in 2008. At the time, Wesbild also had a five year option to extend the sponsorship. Meantime, local politicians will be looking over Greater Vernon's proposed 2013 parks, rec and culture budget at a special meeting this afternoon. Staff are recommending a 1.87% increase in spending next year, most of which is due to wage hikes of 1.5 percent, and to cover costs for the sports complex referendum in April.
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Greater Vernon Advisory Committee Tuesday, December 18, 2012 - 1:00 pm Agenda
Monday, December 17, 2012
GVAC Special Meeting - December 18, 2012
Coldstreamer has posted the GVAC Agenda for the 1:00 PM Tuesday meeting on his website.
Click on the Image to get the full details.
Click on the Image to get the full details. - Most of the information on a proposed GVAC budget for Parks, Multi-Plex and Performing Arts Centre are contained in the document. Also contained are the budget amounts requested by the Art Gallery, Museum, Boys & Girls Club, Gallery Vertigo, Science Centre, Arts Council, & Teen Junction.
- Community Sports Facility Referendum:Staff will bring forward a report for discussion to be introduced as an additional agenda item.
- Greater Vernon Recreation Complex Enhancements – Progress Report - Staff report dated December 12, 2012
Sunday, December 09, 2012
New boiler approved for recreation complex
By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: December 09, 2012 1:00 AM
More money is being pumped into a critical part of Greater Vernon’s recreational infrastructure. The Regional District of North Okanagan is taking $64,000 from reserves to replace the boiler and hot water tank at the Vernon Recreation Complex. “Failure to do that may jeopardize operations,” said David Sewell, general manager of finance. Replacement was scheduled for next year but the timeline has been expedited because of the condition of the aging system. The total bill for the boiler and hot water tank is about $90,000 but a grant from Fortis is expected. This project comes at the same time that repairs at the recreation complex continue to move ahead. The original dehumidifier was undersized when the pool was expanded in 1993. Ultimately, the unit was shut off because of expensive repairs needed to keep it running, but that led to roof and wall damage in the pool area. Repairs are likely to cost around $1.7 million. There was also a problem with the heat lines in the auditorium and Dogwood Gym, which date back to the mid-1960s. New heating lines are in place and the dehumidifier is being designed. Repairs to the roof and walls will occur in the spring. Director Mike Macnabb is not concerned about the overall integrity of the recreation complex. “All mechanical systems have a finite life. As you go forward, there is continual replacement,” he said of the boiler and hot water tank.
More money is being pumped into a critical part of Greater Vernon’s recreational infrastructure. The Regional District of North Okanagan is taking $64,000 from reserves to replace the boiler and hot water tank at the Vernon Recreation Complex. “Failure to do that may jeopardize operations,” said David Sewell, general manager of finance. Replacement was scheduled for next year but the timeline has been expedited because of the condition of the aging system. The total bill for the boiler and hot water tank is about $90,000 but a grant from Fortis is expected. This project comes at the same time that repairs at the recreation complex continue to move ahead. The original dehumidifier was undersized when the pool was expanded in 1993. Ultimately, the unit was shut off because of expensive repairs needed to keep it running, but that led to roof and wall damage in the pool area. Repairs are likely to cost around $1.7 million. There was also a problem with the heat lines in the auditorium and Dogwood Gym, which date back to the mid-1960s. New heating lines are in place and the dehumidifier is being designed. Repairs to the roof and walls will occur in the spring. Director Mike Macnabb is not concerned about the overall integrity of the recreation complex. “All mechanical systems have a finite life. As you go forward, there is continual replacement,” he said of the boiler and hot water tank.
Friday, November 23, 2012
Directors reach peace over parks
By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: November 23, 2012 1:00 AM
Transfer of large chunks of land have clinched a likely end to Greater Vernon’s parks dispute. Representatives for Vernon, Coldstream and the electoral areas have signed a memorandum of understanding which will see some parks remain regional while others will fall under individual jurisdictions. “We want to co-operate and we’ve seen this over the last year and it’s great,” said Rob Sawatzky, a Vernon director. But to get to a tentative agreement — which must now be endorsed by all jurisdictions — some trade-offs were made. Specifically, Vernon has agreed to take ownership of 10 Regional District of North Okanagan sites on Lakeshore Road in return for the city transferring title for Kal Beach to the regional district. “We get the ability to determine what we will do with the lands,” said Sawatzky of the Lakeshore Road sites, adding they could play a critical role in the city’s waterfront development plan. If any of the lots are sold, the money must go back into parks. While Kal Beach is in Coldstream, it is owned by Vernon and the city had previously refused to change the zoning from residential to parks. Jim Garlick, Coldstream director, supports transferring Kal Beach title from the city to RDNO. “It takes all of the speculation away of what we can do with it,” he said. “It allows us to invest in it as park with a sense of confidence.” Sawatzky insists changing ownership for Kal Beach will benefit his constituents. “It will be a park and that will never change,” he said, adding that Coldstream has promised to rezone the property from residential to parks. As part of the MOU, ownership of all parks under the control of individual jurisdictions will be transferred to those jurisdictions. As a result, Polson Park’s designation will shift from regional to local because Vernon was not willing to give up ownership to RDNO, which is responsible for parks deemed to be regional. “That might be a tough sell,” said director Juliette Cunningham of possible public reaction to the city relinquishing control of Polson Park. The memorandum of understanding must now be ratified by the RDNO board and Vernon and Coldstream councils. There is a concern that some politicians who were not part of negotiations may not be pleased with the terms of the draft agreement. “It’s a large mixture of compromise. If you cherry-pick one or two items, you open up the whole panorama,” said Trafford Hall, RDNO administrator, who facilitated discussions. “We’re aiming for improvement and not perfection.” If all jurisdictions sign the MOU, bylaws will be amended to reflect the new service model. All parties will now move ahead with possible changes to recreation and cultural programs.
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Parks victory may be premature
By Editorial - Vernon Morning Star Published: November 23, 2012 1:00 AM
There was a lot of celebrating around the Regional District of North Okanagan board chambers Wednesday. A memorandum of understanding was inked between Vernon, Coldstream and the two electoral areas on a restructured parks system. Obviously optimism is natural as a dispute has waged for years, diverting resources away from other issues. But declaring victory may be premature as a number of critical steps must occur first. Specifically, Vernon and Coldstream councils must ratify the tentative agreement, and it’s anticipated that the city could prove challenging. Already some councillors are questioning plans to revert ownership of Kal Beach from the city to the regional district, while others are unsure about the city taking on 10 RDNO lots on Lakeshore Road because some could ultimately be developed instead of being preserved as beach. Vernon representatives were at the negotiating table but they must now convince their council colleagues that the compromises made are in the best interest of their constituents. If one municipal council demands changes to the MOU, the whole process may unravel and the conflict could heat up again. And even if all parties sign the MOU, a legal process will follow to amend bylaws so they reflect the new service model. Anything could possibly happen once the firm details are exposed. Considerable work has gone into resolving this matter and everyone at the table deserves praise for their willingness to come together.
But the hard work may actually just be starting.
Transfer of large chunks of land have clinched a likely end to Greater Vernon’s parks dispute. Representatives for Vernon, Coldstream and the electoral areas have signed a memorandum of understanding which will see some parks remain regional while others will fall under individual jurisdictions. “We want to co-operate and we’ve seen this over the last year and it’s great,” said Rob Sawatzky, a Vernon director. But to get to a tentative agreement — which must now be endorsed by all jurisdictions — some trade-offs were made. Specifically, Vernon has agreed to take ownership of 10 Regional District of North Okanagan sites on Lakeshore Road in return for the city transferring title for Kal Beach to the regional district. “We get the ability to determine what we will do with the lands,” said Sawatzky of the Lakeshore Road sites, adding they could play a critical role in the city’s waterfront development plan. If any of the lots are sold, the money must go back into parks. While Kal Beach is in Coldstream, it is owned by Vernon and the city had previously refused to change the zoning from residential to parks. Jim Garlick, Coldstream director, supports transferring Kal Beach title from the city to RDNO. “It takes all of the speculation away of what we can do with it,” he said. “It allows us to invest in it as park with a sense of confidence.” Sawatzky insists changing ownership for Kal Beach will benefit his constituents. “It will be a park and that will never change,” he said, adding that Coldstream has promised to rezone the property from residential to parks. As part of the MOU, ownership of all parks under the control of individual jurisdictions will be transferred to those jurisdictions. As a result, Polson Park’s designation will shift from regional to local because Vernon was not willing to give up ownership to RDNO, which is responsible for parks deemed to be regional. “That might be a tough sell,” said director Juliette Cunningham of possible public reaction to the city relinquishing control of Polson Park. The memorandum of understanding must now be ratified by the RDNO board and Vernon and Coldstream councils. There is a concern that some politicians who were not part of negotiations may not be pleased with the terms of the draft agreement. “It’s a large mixture of compromise. If you cherry-pick one or two items, you open up the whole panorama,” said Trafford Hall, RDNO administrator, who facilitated discussions. “We’re aiming for improvement and not perfection.” If all jurisdictions sign the MOU, bylaws will be amended to reflect the new service model. All parties will now move ahead with possible changes to recreation and cultural programs.
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Parks victory may be premature
By Editorial - Vernon Morning Star Published: November 23, 2012 1:00 AM
There was a lot of celebrating around the Regional District of North Okanagan board chambers Wednesday. A memorandum of understanding was inked between Vernon, Coldstream and the two electoral areas on a restructured parks system. Obviously optimism is natural as a dispute has waged for years, diverting resources away from other issues. But declaring victory may be premature as a number of critical steps must occur first. Specifically, Vernon and Coldstream councils must ratify the tentative agreement, and it’s anticipated that the city could prove challenging. Already some councillors are questioning plans to revert ownership of Kal Beach from the city to the regional district, while others are unsure about the city taking on 10 RDNO lots on Lakeshore Road because some could ultimately be developed instead of being preserved as beach. Vernon representatives were at the negotiating table but they must now convince their council colleagues that the compromises made are in the best interest of their constituents. If one municipal council demands changes to the MOU, the whole process may unravel and the conflict could heat up again. And even if all parties sign the MOU, a legal process will follow to amend bylaws so they reflect the new service model. Anything could possibly happen once the firm details are exposed. Considerable work has gone into resolving this matter and everyone at the table deserves praise for their willingness to come together.
But the hard work may actually just be starting.
Sunday, November 18, 2012
White Valley fees could rise
By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: November 18, 2012 1:00 AM
Taxes could be climbing for Lumby and Cherryville residents. The provisional 2013 budget calls for a 3.9 per cent increase in the tax requisition for the White Valley Parks, Recreation and Culture Advisory Committee. “We’re putting in the spray park and there will be more work there, and there are increased costs for insurance and wages,” said director Eugene Foisy. A 3.9 per cent increase would generate an additional $29,216 in revenue. The average cost increase per household would be $13. The tax requisition rose four per cent in 2011 and five per cent in 2012. The 2013 budget process will continue and Foisy would like to see the projected hike reduced. “There are some things we may not have to budget for so this is just the first kick at it,” he said. The budget calls for $101,405 to be put into reserves to handle the replacement of assets. “We were down to very little so we need to get it to the point where it makes sense,” said Foisy. At the end of 2011, there was $625,654 in reserves while assets are valued at $4.1 million. The proposed budget also includes consulting fees so an engineer can look at the Cherryville ice rink and determine the cost for putting in brine lines. “The Cherryville Community Club is interested in pouring concrete to have the rink available for other activities in the warmer seasons, as well as making the ice preparation easier,” said Tannis Nelson, community development co-ordinator, in a report
Taxes could be climbing for Lumby and Cherryville residents. The provisional 2013 budget calls for a 3.9 per cent increase in the tax requisition for the White Valley Parks, Recreation and Culture Advisory Committee. “We’re putting in the spray park and there will be more work there, and there are increased costs for insurance and wages,” said director Eugene Foisy. A 3.9 per cent increase would generate an additional $29,216 in revenue. The average cost increase per household would be $13. The tax requisition rose four per cent in 2011 and five per cent in 2012. The 2013 budget process will continue and Foisy would like to see the projected hike reduced. “There are some things we may not have to budget for so this is just the first kick at it,” he said. The budget calls for $101,405 to be put into reserves to handle the replacement of assets. “We were down to very little so we need to get it to the point where it makes sense,” said Foisy. At the end of 2011, there was $625,654 in reserves while assets are valued at $4.1 million. The proposed budget also includes consulting fees so an engineer can look at the Cherryville ice rink and determine the cost for putting in brine lines. “The Cherryville Community Club is interested in pouring concrete to have the rink available for other activities in the warmer seasons, as well as making the ice preparation easier,” said Tannis Nelson, community development co-ordinator, in a report
Thursday, November 08, 2012
GVAC To Look Into Multiple Votes
Written by Peter McIntyre Thursday, 08 November 2012 11:11
Local politicians need more information before deciding if arts and culture facilities could be on the same referendum as a proposed sports complex. The Greater Vernon Advisory Committee will get a staff report on the costs and timelines of including a new Public Art Gallery and museum on the same ballot as one for a track and field facility next to Okanagan College next April. The Art Gallery is seeking 7 million dollars for a new facility on city owned land next to Centotaph Park. Museum officials have also asked to be on the same vote, with a venue costing up to 10 million. There will also be discussions about a combined facility for the two projects.
Local politicians need more information before deciding if arts and culture facilities could be on the same referendum as a proposed sports complex. The Greater Vernon Advisory Committee will get a staff report on the costs and timelines of including a new Public Art Gallery and museum on the same ballot as one for a track and field facility next to Okanagan College next April. The Art Gallery is seeking 7 million dollars for a new facility on city owned land next to Centotaph Park. Museum officials have also asked to be on the same vote, with a venue costing up to 10 million. There will also be discussions about a combined facility for the two projects.
Friday, October 26, 2012
District of Coldstream investigates facility figures
By Jennifer Smith - Vernon Morning Star Published: October 26, 2012 1:00 AM
Coldstream is prodding its regional partners to get the ball rolling on the area parks review. The district has drafted a series of questions regarding water revenue and billing to the Regional District of North Okanagan. “We’re trying to be proactive,” said Coldstream Mayor Jim Garlick. Coldstream wants to know the total amounts of domestic water volume billed and the total revenue for the Duteau and Mission Hill water treatment plants.
It is also seeking details and figures for the past five years on building costs, operating grant costs and revenues for the following:
Coldstream is prodding its regional partners to get the ball rolling on the area parks review. The district has drafted a series of questions regarding water revenue and billing to the Regional District of North Okanagan. “We’re trying to be proactive,” said Coldstream Mayor Jim Garlick. Coldstream wants to know the total amounts of domestic water volume billed and the total revenue for the Duteau and Mission Hill water treatment plants.
It is also seeking details and figures for the past five years on building costs, operating grant costs and revenues for the following:
- Performing Arts Centre
- Greater Vernon Museum and Archives
- Vernon Community Arts Centre
- Vernon Art Gallery
- Boys and Girls Club
- Teen Junction
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
Penticton landfill costs reach the tipping point
By Joe Fries - Penticton Western News Published: October 23, 2012 2:00 PM
Local politicians were told Thursday they should consider a new tax to subsidize the Campbell Mountain Landfill and help offset a growing operating deficit. In his third-quarter update, Warren Everton, finance manager of the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen, told the board the landfill is projected to come in $250,000 over budget this year. He said tipping fees collected through the first nine months of 2012 totalled just 45 per cent of the $2.4 million indicated in budget projections, and are only expected to hit 68 per cent by the end of the year. Meanwhile, the cost of providing recycling services has increased faster than the revenue it generates and has become a major drain on landfill finances. “It’s a bit of a worry,” Everton said. He said the shortfall can be covered by increasing the draw on the landfill’s operating reserve fund from $200,000 to $400,000, although that will clean out that account.
The highest cost associated with the landfill is the operations contract the RDOS has with SSG Holdings to run the site, an expense projected to reach $636,000 this year. RDOS staffing costs at Campbell Mountain are budgeted at $493,00 for the year.
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Don Quixote Note: Last year the RDNO imposed a Garbage Tax as part of this function. The effect on the regional parties of the $400,000 imposed in 2012 taxes (On Land & Improvements) There are postings on this subjects at
Garbage / Recylcing
Vernon's share based on the 2012 assessment rolls will be $212,406. (This equates to about $10 year for the Vernon Taxpayer.) Vernon's direct Residential Garbage and recycling costs were also increased by about $12 last year.
Local politicians were told Thursday they should consider a new tax to subsidize the Campbell Mountain Landfill and help offset a growing operating deficit. In his third-quarter update, Warren Everton, finance manager of the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen, told the board the landfill is projected to come in $250,000 over budget this year. He said tipping fees collected through the first nine months of 2012 totalled just 45 per cent of the $2.4 million indicated in budget projections, and are only expected to hit 68 per cent by the end of the year. Meanwhile, the cost of providing recycling services has increased faster than the revenue it generates and has become a major drain on landfill finances. “It’s a bit of a worry,” Everton said. He said the shortfall can be covered by increasing the draw on the landfill’s operating reserve fund from $200,000 to $400,000, although that will clean out that account.
The highest cost associated with the landfill is the operations contract the RDOS has with SSG Holdings to run the site, an expense projected to reach $636,000 this year. RDOS staffing costs at Campbell Mountain are budgeted at $493,00 for the year.
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| Solid Waste New Tax |
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| Garbage & Recycling Rates Changes |
Vernon's share based on the 2012 assessment rolls will be $212,406. (This equates to about $10 year for the Vernon Taxpayer.) Vernon's direct Residential Garbage and recycling costs were also increased by about $12 last year.
Sunday, October 07, 2012
No decision made on science centre funds
By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: October 07, 2012 1:00 AM
The Okanagan Science Centre’s goal of ongoing taxpayers’ support has been left in limbo. Greater Vernon Advisory Committee members deferred making a decision Thursday on whether the science centre should become an official function, which could make sannual operating funds available. “I want to see more discussion about the amount of money,” said director Jim Garlick. “Rather than just putting it in there, I want to be cautious. If it’s included, what’s the appropriate funding?” The science centre is seeking $150,000 annually in five-year core operational funding. Being classified as a function doesn’t guarantee funding, but Garlick says reality is something different. “As soon as someone is put on the list, they get money. They don’t get zero,” he said. It’s possible the science centre’s request could be discussed as part of the creation of a new arts, culture and youth structure considered for Greater Vernon. Under GVAC bylaws, the only functions presently are the Vernon Public Art Gallery, the Greater Vernon Museum, the Boys and Girls Club, the Vernon Arts Centre and Teen Junction. The addition of a new agency to bylaws would require support from Vernon, Coldstream and the two electoral areas. “We have to have unanimity,” said Mike Macnabb, GVAC chairperson.
The Okanagan Science Centre’s goal of ongoing taxpayers’ support has been left in limbo. Greater Vernon Advisory Committee members deferred making a decision Thursday on whether the science centre should become an official function, which could make sannual operating funds available. “I want to see more discussion about the amount of money,” said director Jim Garlick. “Rather than just putting it in there, I want to be cautious. If it’s included, what’s the appropriate funding?” The science centre is seeking $150,000 annually in five-year core operational funding. Being classified as a function doesn’t guarantee funding, but Garlick says reality is something different. “As soon as someone is put on the list, they get money. They don’t get zero,” he said. It’s possible the science centre’s request could be discussed as part of the creation of a new arts, culture and youth structure considered for Greater Vernon. Under GVAC bylaws, the only functions presently are the Vernon Public Art Gallery, the Greater Vernon Museum, the Boys and Girls Club, the Vernon Arts Centre and Teen Junction. The addition of a new agency to bylaws would require support from Vernon, Coldstream and the two electoral areas. “We have to have unanimity,” said Mike Macnabb, GVAC chairperson.
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