May 23, 2018 - 12:48 PM Infotel News.Ca
VERNON - The cost of a new cultural centre for Vernon’s museum and art gallery would cost an estimated $40 million. The new facility has been in the works for years and would be built somewhere in Vernon’s city centre. Today, the Regional District of North Okanagan released a preliminary funding strategy for the building. With a proposed facility size of 58,000 square feet, the total project budget is pegged at $40 million with construction starting in 2020. The preliminary funding strategy approved by the Board of Directors proposes using project timing to moderate the tax impact on Greater Vernon residents, states the release. The Regional District has agreed to go to referendum for up to $25 million for the project, which is $1.2 million more than the $23.8 million in debt that will come off of the books from the construction of Kal Tire Place and the Vernon and District Performing Arts Centre by 2022, the district says. “By timing this project with the elimination of the debt from Kal Tire Place and the Vernon and District Performing Arts Centre, we can aim to complete this amazing community project while minimizing the impact on taxpayers,” board chair Bob Fleming says in the release. Within the $40 million budget is $3.34 million for pre-construction and project management costs, $29.38 million for construction, $5.78 million for construction contingency and $1.5 million for a land purchase contingency.
“The Greater Vernon cultural facility will be more than a community asset,” Juliette Cunningham, chair of the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee says. “It will be an investment in our city. A cultural destination like this will draw people downtown. When more people are downtown people feel safer, restaurants and businesses are busier, and we see a greater economic benefit to our region.” While the ability to borrow will need to be approved through referendum, the district hopes that approval of the funding strategy will provide the community with the confidence to begin fundraising efforts for the project. The funding strategy for the project, which has been approved in principle, is subject to the selection of the site and finalization of the project budget, the district says. It is proposed that the project funding be made up of $25 million from regional district borrowing, $6 million from infrastructure grants, $5 million through partnership contributions, and $4 million through fundraising and donations. “The regional district is now working with the community partners and the City of Vernon to evaluate sites for the facility. Once a site has been selected, the preliminary concept plan and budget can be adjusted for the site and taken out for public consultation, and a timeline for the project, including all funding requirements, can be developed,” the district says.
Showing posts with label GVAC. Show all posts
Showing posts with label GVAC. Show all posts
Wednesday, May 23, 2018
Friday, April 06, 2018
Centre Considered For Grant
Vernon, BC, Canada / 1075 Beach Radio Vernon Pete McIntyre April 06, 2018 04:12 pm
The Greater Vernon Advisory Committee will consider providing a grant to the Caetani Cultural Centre in Vernon. The 120 year old house on Pleasant Valley Road has requested 35-thousand dollars to help with asbestos removal and electrical upgrades from their building which will open to the public in June. The group will be asked to formally apply for a grant, which will go through the normal review process. Susan Brandoli from the Centre told GVAC in March, the funding would also allow greater community access and additional opportunities for fundraising. “It may put them in the right direction to make more money, and make them more self-sustainable,” says Bob Fleming, GVAC director. The Centre was recently awarded a BC Gaming grant of 75-thousand dollars.
Wednesday, January 24, 2018
Plans For Cultural Facility Outlined
Vernon, BC, Canada / 1075 Beach Radio Vernon Pete McIntyre January 24, 2018 04:12 pm
A consulting team has outlined the general features for a multi-purpose cultural facility for Greater Vernon. Diamond Schmidt Architects is recommending a 57-thousand square foot space, to house an art galley, museum and other public space. Greater Vernon Advisory chair Juliette Cunningham says the study has shown the groups can share a facility — and benefit from it. “It creates bigger opportunities for reaching a greater audience, so that’s really positive. The evidence shows that happens. The attendance for both the co-located organizations really goes up dramatically,” Cunningham told Beach Radio News following a special GVAC meeting at the Okanagan Regional Library, due to ongoing renovations at the RDNO office.Cunningham says there’s also plans for common space for other organizations. “We’ve heard there is a need for a smaller space. Music groups, dance groups, whatever, where they need 250 to 300 seats. That kind of thing, and that’s a model that’s been used across the country.”
The study mentions four publicly-owned sites to consider: the Vernon Flower Shop, Coldstream Hotel site, Polson Park, and the Civic Arena land. Detailed cost estimates for those sites will be among the next steps. The committee hasn’t ruled out considering private sites, but one of the consultants said those can be challenging as they may not be available for long, due to the hot real estate market. The executive director of the Vernon Art Gallery likes the general program for a proposed new cultural facility.Dauna Kennedy-Grant says it’s been a positive process. “They’ve met with all of the stakeholders, in terms of what we need for programming space, and they’ve taken all that and kind of combined it to see what needs to be dedicated space, and what needs to be shared space,” says Kennedy Grant. Kennedy-Grant says they like the look of the plan. “It’s probably doubling the art gallery space (from current), probably doubling the museum space. That’s what we’re looking at, but some of the services, we will be able to share. Back of house services and stuff like that.” GVAC and RDNO officials hope to have enough information in place to hold a referendum on a cultural facility during this October’s municipal elections.
Click here for more on the cultural facility plan.
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Also see https://www.vernonmorningstar.com/news/four-sites-eyed-for-new-vernon-cultural-facility/
A consulting team has outlined the general features for a multi-purpose cultural facility for Greater Vernon. Diamond Schmidt Architects is recommending a 57-thousand square foot space, to house an art galley, museum and other public space. Greater Vernon Advisory chair Juliette Cunningham says the study has shown the groups can share a facility — and benefit from it. “It creates bigger opportunities for reaching a greater audience, so that’s really positive. The evidence shows that happens. The attendance for both the co-located organizations really goes up dramatically,” Cunningham told Beach Radio News following a special GVAC meeting at the Okanagan Regional Library, due to ongoing renovations at the RDNO office.Cunningham says there’s also plans for common space for other organizations. “We’ve heard there is a need for a smaller space. Music groups, dance groups, whatever, where they need 250 to 300 seats. That kind of thing, and that’s a model that’s been used across the country.”
The study mentions four publicly-owned sites to consider: the Vernon Flower Shop, Coldstream Hotel site, Polson Park, and the Civic Arena land. Detailed cost estimates for those sites will be among the next steps. The committee hasn’t ruled out considering private sites, but one of the consultants said those can be challenging as they may not be available for long, due to the hot real estate market. The executive director of the Vernon Art Gallery likes the general program for a proposed new cultural facility.Dauna Kennedy-Grant says it’s been a positive process. “They’ve met with all of the stakeholders, in terms of what we need for programming space, and they’ve taken all that and kind of combined it to see what needs to be dedicated space, and what needs to be shared space,” says Kennedy Grant. Kennedy-Grant says they like the look of the plan. “It’s probably doubling the art gallery space (from current), probably doubling the museum space. That’s what we’re looking at, but some of the services, we will be able to share. Back of house services and stuff like that.” GVAC and RDNO officials hope to have enough information in place to hold a referendum on a cultural facility during this October’s municipal elections.
Click here for more on the cultural facility plan.
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Also see https://www.vernonmorningstar.com/news/four-sites-eyed-for-new-vernon-cultural-facility/
Sunday, January 21, 2018
Multi-Purpose Cultural Facility
Greater Vernon Multi-Purpose Cultural Facility
Presentation by Diamond Schmitt Architects Consulting Team
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Thursday, December 14, 2017
Regional district committees won’t be delegated greater voting authority
BARRY GERDING Dec. 14, 2017 7:00 a.m. COMMUNITYNEWS MORNING STAR
An attempt to streamline the meeting agenda for the Regional District of North Okanagan board has failed. A resolution to delegate greater authority to several committees to remove redundancy in board resolution voting and allow more time for debate on issues affecting all stakeholders was voted 9-5 in favour, but fell short of the two-thirds majority vote required for adoption. The committees directly affected by the move would have been the Electoral Area Advisory Committee, Greater Vernon Advisory Committee, Regional Growth Management Advisory Committee, White Valley Parks, Recreation and Culture Advisory Committee, and the Audit Committee.
Some board directors expressed misgivings about not having an opportunity to be updated at board meetings about all issues being addressed at the committee level, of having the opportunity for a “sober second thought” before resolutions are given final adoption. Others suggested board meetings take up an excessive amount of time voting on issues that don’t directly concern all regional stakeholders. David Sewell, RDNO chief administrative officer, said the initiative was an attempt to eliminate the need for rubber-stamp voting on some committee resolutions, particularly those where not all regional board stakeholders have a vote. “It’s not about have less meetings. It is about meetings being more effective regarding issues of interest to all directors,” Sewell said.
Rick Fairbairn, Electoral Area D director, voiced concerns that information related to committee resolutions won’t be designated to board members in a timely manner, leaving them outside the flow of information about what’s happening across there regional district. Lumpy director Kevin Acton raised the example of the pickleball facility upgrade being addressed by the GVAC, saying that the matter doesn’t directly involve his community, it is of interest to Lumby pickleball players. “There are a lot of issues that all stakeholders may not have a vote on but do have connections to different communities across the region,” he said. Sewell said efforts to enhance communication between the various committees and regional board members could help alleviate those concerns. Mike Macnabb, electoral area C director, felt trying to fix an existing broken meeting structure system was a step worth taking.“Communication protocols can be solved. Let’s just start the process, see how it works and correct the faults as they are identified,” Macnabb said.
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https://rdno.civicweb.net/document/83115/171121_RPT_BL_2758_BOD.pdf?handle=56D02BDD9BE6447F84DBE91D7CAD4030
An attempt to streamline the meeting agenda for the Regional District of North Okanagan board has failed. A resolution to delegate greater authority to several committees to remove redundancy in board resolution voting and allow more time for debate on issues affecting all stakeholders was voted 9-5 in favour, but fell short of the two-thirds majority vote required for adoption. The committees directly affected by the move would have been the Electoral Area Advisory Committee, Greater Vernon Advisory Committee, Regional Growth Management Advisory Committee, White Valley Parks, Recreation and Culture Advisory Committee, and the Audit Committee.
Some board directors expressed misgivings about not having an opportunity to be updated at board meetings about all issues being addressed at the committee level, of having the opportunity for a “sober second thought” before resolutions are given final adoption. Others suggested board meetings take up an excessive amount of time voting on issues that don’t directly concern all regional stakeholders. David Sewell, RDNO chief administrative officer, said the initiative was an attempt to eliminate the need for rubber-stamp voting on some committee resolutions, particularly those where not all regional board stakeholders have a vote. “It’s not about have less meetings. It is about meetings being more effective regarding issues of interest to all directors,” Sewell said.
Rick Fairbairn, Electoral Area D director, voiced concerns that information related to committee resolutions won’t be designated to board members in a timely manner, leaving them outside the flow of information about what’s happening across there regional district. Lumpy director Kevin Acton raised the example of the pickleball facility upgrade being addressed by the GVAC, saying that the matter doesn’t directly involve his community, it is of interest to Lumby pickleball players. “There are a lot of issues that all stakeholders may not have a vote on but do have connections to different communities across the region,” he said. Sewell said efforts to enhance communication between the various committees and regional board members could help alleviate those concerns. Mike Macnabb, electoral area C director, felt trying to fix an existing broken meeting structure system was a step worth taking.“Communication protocols can be solved. Let’s just start the process, see how it works and correct the faults as they are identified,” Macnabb said.
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https://rdno.civicweb.net/document/83115/171121_RPT_BL_2758_BOD.pdf?handle=56D02BDD9BE6447F84DBE91D7CAD4030
Friday, December 08, 2017
BX Ranch proposed as agricultural park
BARRY GERDING Dec. 7, 2017 6:00 p.m.LOCAL NEWS MORNING Star
Two community groups made their pitch Thursday to the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee to have the BX Ranchlands property turned into an agricultural park.The BX Ranchlands Task Force and the BX/Swan Lake Community Association, backed by a supportive petition with more than 1,300 signatures, are advocating the historic 137-acre site be preserved as a working farm, habitat conservation area and a focal point to both celebrate and raise awareness through public education initiatives of agriculture’s significance to the area.Paul Williamson, a BX Ranchlands Task Force member, said the agricultural park concept exists in other B.C. communities such as Saanich, Salt Spring Island, Pemberton and most recently the Ceres Circle Farm in Kelowna, a 37-acre sheep farm gifted by its owner and currently under transition to a land trust. Besides preserving historic farmlands, Williamson said those initiatives have found ways to generate revenue from tourism and access to public land use and agriculture programs.“It takes vision and people to make a change in our community,” Williamson said. “We are at a pivotal point in the history of the last remaining piece of the BX Ranchlands.”Agrologist Melanie Piorecky told the advisory committee the agricultural park concept complements the food sustainability objectives for the area while providing the opportunity to create incubator farm plots, community gardens, post-secondary agrology research programs and a dedicated location for a farmers’ market.She said the habitat enhancement aspect would help preserve the wetlands portion of the BX Ranchlands already exposed to impact from a neighbouring residential development.The BX future land use has been disputed at times since the land parcel was purchased in 2016 for $2.3 million, with the idea being 36 acres could be kept as park and the remainder sold for development to recoup the land investment costs.If sold, the 36-acre park portion would create a park between BX Ranch and Mutrie Road parks.But the land still remains within the Agricultural Land Reserve, something the BX Ranchlands Task Force and BX/Swan Lake Community Association don’t want to see changed.The Regional District of North Okanagan board has already approved the rezoning of the BX Ranchlands from country residential to large holding, which means the land would be agricultural and residential subdivision development would not be allowed unless there was a further rezoning process considered by the regional district.GVAC chair Juliette Cunningham said the committee will address the agricultural park proposal at their next meeting Jan. 4, which will be held at the Coldstream Municipal Hall
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Also See: https://www.vernonmorningstar.com/news/bx-ranch-generates-debate/
Two community groups made their pitch Thursday to the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee to have the BX Ranchlands property turned into an agricultural park.The BX Ranchlands Task Force and the BX/Swan Lake Community Association, backed by a supportive petition with more than 1,300 signatures, are advocating the historic 137-acre site be preserved as a working farm, habitat conservation area and a focal point to both celebrate and raise awareness through public education initiatives of agriculture’s significance to the area.Paul Williamson, a BX Ranchlands Task Force member, said the agricultural park concept exists in other B.C. communities such as Saanich, Salt Spring Island, Pemberton and most recently the Ceres Circle Farm in Kelowna, a 37-acre sheep farm gifted by its owner and currently under transition to a land trust. Besides preserving historic farmlands, Williamson said those initiatives have found ways to generate revenue from tourism and access to public land use and agriculture programs.“It takes vision and people to make a change in our community,” Williamson said. “We are at a pivotal point in the history of the last remaining piece of the BX Ranchlands.”Agrologist Melanie Piorecky told the advisory committee the agricultural park concept complements the food sustainability objectives for the area while providing the opportunity to create incubator farm plots, community gardens, post-secondary agrology research programs and a dedicated location for a farmers’ market.She said the habitat enhancement aspect would help preserve the wetlands portion of the BX Ranchlands already exposed to impact from a neighbouring residential development.The BX future land use has been disputed at times since the land parcel was purchased in 2016 for $2.3 million, with the idea being 36 acres could be kept as park and the remainder sold for development to recoup the land investment costs.If sold, the 36-acre park portion would create a park between BX Ranch and Mutrie Road parks.But the land still remains within the Agricultural Land Reserve, something the BX Ranchlands Task Force and BX/Swan Lake Community Association don’t want to see changed.The Regional District of North Okanagan board has already approved the rezoning of the BX Ranchlands from country residential to large holding, which means the land would be agricultural and residential subdivision development would not be allowed unless there was a further rezoning process considered by the regional district.GVAC chair Juliette Cunningham said the committee will address the agricultural park proposal at their next meeting Jan. 4, which will be held at the Coldstream Municipal Hall
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Also See: https://www.vernonmorningstar.com/news/bx-ranch-generates-debate/
Club Seeks Help With Bill
Vernon, BC, Canada / 1075 KISS FM Pete McIntyre December 07, 2017 05:31 pm
The Vernon Pickleball Association is hoping local government will help with the costs of getting its new site ready to build on. The group has started work on a 12 court facility in Marshall Field.However, member and project manager Don Freisen told the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee, it cost them $95,000 in pre-work fees to move Hydro and irrigation lines, along with a fire hydrant. “At that point, when we actually got the site, we certainly didn’t want to give it up.So when we ran into all these services that we had to deal with, we just went to work because there was no other opportunity. We had to make it work.” Friesen says their volunteers helped with some of the work. “All together we did something like two thousand feet of trenching and two thousand feet of mainline irrigation and hydro lines. All of this before we could go to work.” GVAC will discuss the request at its next meeting.The club plans to have the new courts ready for use sometime in 2018.The regional district provided the site for the facility, and GVAC gave the group a $300,000 grant.
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Also see https://www.castanet.net/news/Vernon/213500/PIckleball-asks-for-cash
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Also see https://www.castanet.net/news/Vernon/213500/PIckleball-asks-for-cash
Monday, November 20, 2017
Eyes on BX ranch land
Kate Bouey - CASTANET Nov 20, 2017 / 5:00 am
The possible sale of 55 acres of BX ranch land has sparked some concern, with a community group hoping to save it for public use. The BX Ranch Land Task Force, a group of concerned citizens, will be providing information on the historic land and getting public input during a presentation at the Schubert Centre on Tuesday, Nov. 21 from 7-9 p.m. Everyone is welcome.“We feel this property can be kept as open green space and one possible use is a community agricultural park,” stated a Facebook post by the group. The North Okanagan Regional District spent $2.315 million to purchase 166.96 acres of ranch land in the BX area last year, in order to provide trail connectivity between BX Road near BX Ranch Dog Park, Mutrie Dog Park, the Wetlands bird sanctuary and Black Rock Park. The entire property is within the Agricultural Land Reserve.Paul Williamson, task force spokesperson, said there is fear the regional district will sell a 55 acre chunk of the land on the open market.He said people should know what the community is losing and what type of farm could be situated on the land.“There are some farms that could cause conflict,” Williamson said. “Cherries, for instance, a feed lot, a hog farm or a chicken farm. They are not suitable as farm use when they are next to a city.”The task force is hoping to have 1,500 signatures on its petition by the time it is presented to a meeting of the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee on Dec. 7th.
The possible sale of 55 acres of BX ranch land has sparked some concern, with a community group hoping to save it for public use. The BX Ranch Land Task Force, a group of concerned citizens, will be providing information on the historic land and getting public input during a presentation at the Schubert Centre on Tuesday, Nov. 21 from 7-9 p.m. Everyone is welcome.“We feel this property can be kept as open green space and one possible use is a community agricultural park,” stated a Facebook post by the group. The North Okanagan Regional District spent $2.315 million to purchase 166.96 acres of ranch land in the BX area last year, in order to provide trail connectivity between BX Road near BX Ranch Dog Park, Mutrie Dog Park, the Wetlands bird sanctuary and Black Rock Park. The entire property is within the Agricultural Land Reserve.Paul Williamson, task force spokesperson, said there is fear the regional district will sell a 55 acre chunk of the land on the open market.He said people should know what the community is losing and what type of farm could be situated on the land.“There are some farms that could cause conflict,” Williamson said. “Cherries, for instance, a feed lot, a hog farm or a chicken farm. They are not suitable as farm use when they are next to a city.”The task force is hoping to have 1,500 signatures on its petition by the time it is presented to a meeting of the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee on Dec. 7th.
Sunday, October 22, 2017
Ultraviolet Disinfection at DCWTP Project -
http://www.rdno.ca/docs/2017_Bid_Awards.pdf
Total Contracts Awarded to Date: $6,396,678.65
The North Okanagan Regional District has secured nearly $6 million in a grant from the provincial government’s Clean Water and Wastewater Fund. The $5.8 million will be used for a UV disinfection system at the Duteau Creek Water Treatment Plant.
Total Contracts Awarded to Date: $6,396,678.65
The North Okanagan Regional District has secured nearly $6 million in a grant from the provincial government’s Clean Water and Wastewater Fund. The $5.8 million will be used for a UV disinfection system at the Duteau Creek Water Treatment Plant.
Friday, October 06, 2017
Dangerous trees at Kin
By Kate Bouey CASTANET- Oct 6, 2017 / 5:00 am |
Three trees affected by spring flooding at Kin beach have become dangerous and need to be chopped down, but the problem could be much more extensive than that. Members of the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee learned Thursday there were a number of trees in local parks that could be dangerous and an assessment needed to be carried out. “With flooding this year, there are quite a number of dangerous trees,” said David Sewell, chief administrative officer, for the North Okanagan Regional District, pointing to other areas, including BX Creek Trail and Camp Hurlburt. Sewell stressed that it was an expensive fix, there was no budget and that the trees would have to be “prioritized.”
But Vernon director Akbal Mund pointed out that an assessment had already been done at Kin where an arborist hired by the City of Vernon pointed to three trees that needed to come down immediately at a cost of approximately $10,000.“Why do we have to send someone to do another assessment?” Mund asked. When GVAC chair Juliette Cunningham asked if there was money in the budget for the project, Sewell replied, “The answer is no.” “What options do we have?” asked Mike Macnabb, electoral area C director. “Do we run out with yellow tape and say 'do not enter'? Do we cough up 10 grand? What would be the next step in this?” Sewell said a comprehensive risk assessment could be accomplished through the fall with implications for next year's budget prompting an outburst from Vernon director Bob Spiers. “If there is an immediate risk, let's damn well do something about it,” Spiers said. Macnabb said the Ministry of Forests might do the job for free. Meanwhile staff are to request a risk assessment of Greater Vernon trails.
But Vernon director Akbal Mund pointed out that an assessment had already been done at Kin where an arborist hired by the City of Vernon pointed to three trees that needed to come down immediately at a cost of approximately $10,000.“Why do we have to send someone to do another assessment?” Mund asked. When GVAC chair Juliette Cunningham asked if there was money in the budget for the project, Sewell replied, “The answer is no.” “What options do we have?” asked Mike Macnabb, electoral area C director. “Do we run out with yellow tape and say 'do not enter'? Do we cough up 10 grand? What would be the next step in this?” Sewell said a comprehensive risk assessment could be accomplished through the fall with implications for next year's budget prompting an outburst from Vernon director Bob Spiers. “If there is an immediate risk, let's damn well do something about it,” Spiers said. Macnabb said the Ministry of Forests might do the job for free. Meanwhile staff are to request a risk assessment of Greater Vernon trails.
Thursday, October 05, 2017
Digging For PickleBall
Vernon, BC, Canada / 1075 KISS FM Pete McIntyre October 05, 2017 05:45 am
Work is finally ready to start on a new 600-thousand dollar pickleball facility in Vernon. Crews will start digging the foundation Tuesday at the site in Marshall Field, along with moving water and power lines.Project manager Don Friesen from the Vernon Pickleball Association says they’ve been waiting for final approval. “Everything is 100 percent go. All the services will be worked on, the irrigation system will be moved, the hydro line, we’re working on getting that moved, and we’ll be working on digging the foundation Tuesday morning as well.” Friesen, who has hired contractors to do the work, hopes to have the concrete and paving done before the snow flies, otherwise it will have to wait until spring. “The problem with waiting til spring is now you have to wait for areas to dry up before you start hauling big trucks in an out, so it stretches it out considerably.”Friesen says the goal is to have the 12 courts open by next May. “That will be a summer time facility, and the club will be raising funds for putting a building over top of the courts to make it a covered court so we can use it most of the winter as well.”Friesen says the cost for covered courts is an extra $1 million on top of the $600,000 for the basic facility. The club and the regional district are splitting the $600,000 cost. Friesen says the pickleball club has close to 400 members, and these will be the first courts specifically for the sport. “In the 55 Plus BC Games, we had 900 pickleball games, so that’s an indication of how popular pickleball has become,” states Friesen.
Work is finally ready to start on a new 600-thousand dollar pickleball facility in Vernon. Crews will start digging the foundation Tuesday at the site in Marshall Field, along with moving water and power lines.Project manager Don Friesen from the Vernon Pickleball Association says they’ve been waiting for final approval. “Everything is 100 percent go. All the services will be worked on, the irrigation system will be moved, the hydro line, we’re working on getting that moved, and we’ll be working on digging the foundation Tuesday morning as well.” Friesen, who has hired contractors to do the work, hopes to have the concrete and paving done before the snow flies, otherwise it will have to wait until spring. “The problem with waiting til spring is now you have to wait for areas to dry up before you start hauling big trucks in an out, so it stretches it out considerably.”Friesen says the goal is to have the 12 courts open by next May. “That will be a summer time facility, and the club will be raising funds for putting a building over top of the courts to make it a covered court so we can use it most of the winter as well.”Friesen says the cost for covered courts is an extra $1 million on top of the $600,000 for the basic facility. The club and the regional district are splitting the $600,000 cost. Friesen says the pickleball club has close to 400 members, and these will be the first courts specifically for the sport. “In the 55 Plus BC Games, we had 900 pickleball games, so that’s an indication of how popular pickleball has become,” states Friesen.
Tuesday, October 03, 2017
Wrapping up the rail trail
By Kate Bouey - CASTANET Oct 3, 2017 / 5:00 am
The northern end of the Okanagan Rail Trail could be completed this year, according to Bob Fleming, the chair of the North Okanagan Regional District board. Last week, it was announced that construction was set to begin on just over half of the 48.5-kilometre trail, including 12 km within Coldstream and Electoral Area B. “At first, rock scaling was supposed to take place but now it appears that rock scaling and construction will be underway at the same time,” said Fleming. The Electoral Area B representative said he believed about 13.5 km lay within the North Okanagan region and he was hopeful that all of the work to get it ready for hikers and bikers would be wrapped up this fall.“I'll have to check that but it appears to be the case.” As weather permits, crews will build approximately 26 km of the trail with compacted crushed aggregate between now and the end of November, with five km being completed in Lake Country and nine in Kelowna. The balance will be completed in the spring. "Construction is underway," proclaimed the Okanagan Rail Trail fundraising website. It showed approximately 31 kilometres had been funded through donations.
Members of the public have a chance to view the latest plans at three information sessions, including today, Oct. 3 at Coldstream Municipal hall, Oct. 4 at the George Elliot community complex in Lake Country and Oct. 5 at Parkinson Rec Centre in Kelowna. All three are scheduled to run from 4 to 6:30 p.m.
Members of the public have a chance to view the latest plans at three information sessions, including today, Oct. 3 at Coldstream Municipal hall, Oct. 4 at the George Elliot community complex in Lake Country and Oct. 5 at Parkinson Rec Centre in Kelowna. All three are scheduled to run from 4 to 6:30 p.m.
Monday, September 18, 2017
Hurlburt needs work
By Kate Bouey -CASTANET Sep 18, 2017 / 5:00 am
City of Vernon staff say Hurlburt Park needs a lot of work to improve accessibility, safety and usability. A fixture on Okanagan Lake for more than eight decades, the park was purchased by the North Okanagan Regional District two years ago for $2.3 million. A report to city council Monday states $477,549 is needed for traffic calming, parking spaces and a permanent toilet as well as a danger tree assessment and a safety inspection. Council is being urged to approach the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee for funding.The report says most vehicles travel at 70 kph along the road to the old camp and calls for traffic calming in order to reduce speed. “The costs to improve the access and provide paved parking is estimated to be $359,549,” says Kim Flick, community infrastructure and development manager. “Given the nature of this road it is recommended that pilot vertical measures be installed either side of the park access. These would be flat top road humps which are suitable for emergency vehicles, larger vehicles and trailers.” In terms of dangerous trees, she says, “There are also trees on the property and adjacent Crown land that have been damaged by beavers that may need to be limbed and protected.” Flick says fencing along Eastside Road need to be repaired, amphitheatre steps and seating should be reconstructed or removed and old lighting should go
Monday, August 21, 2017
New Cultural Centre For Vernon A Step Closer
Vernon, BC, Canada / 1075 KISS FM Tom Mark August 21, 2017 06:42 am
RDNO staff are being directed to begin the process of preparing a Request for Proposal for for a consultant study on a new multi-purpose cultural facility for Vernon. Board Chair Bob Fleming says the board approved the first two phases of study. “It’s an odd term, but we’re calling it a ‘right-sizing. So we’re looking at what could be in the facility. Obviously the two main anchors being looked at are the museum and the art gallery. But they are also looking at multi-use space.” Fleming says they’ve also looked at other facilities. “In the report, there was a comparison to communities that have facilities relatively recently built and what sizes have been constructed in other communities. The types of facilities.” One hundred thousand dollars has been set aside for the process, including the eventual design. The consultant will also look at possible locations. “What are the best places? What are the upsides and what are the downsides to any one location? You know, obviously access, parking, proximity to other services.” The third phase would be the actual design. It all has to be approved by the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee.
RDNO staff are being directed to begin the process of preparing a Request for Proposal for for a consultant study on a new multi-purpose cultural facility for Vernon. Board Chair Bob Fleming says the board approved the first two phases of study. “It’s an odd term, but we’re calling it a ‘right-sizing. So we’re looking at what could be in the facility. Obviously the two main anchors being looked at are the museum and the art gallery. But they are also looking at multi-use space.” Fleming says they’ve also looked at other facilities. “In the report, there was a comparison to communities that have facilities relatively recently built and what sizes have been constructed in other communities. The types of facilities.” One hundred thousand dollars has been set aside for the process, including the eventual design. The consultant will also look at possible locations. “What are the best places? What are the upsides and what are the downsides to any one location? You know, obviously access, parking, proximity to other services.” The third phase would be the actual design. It all has to be approved by the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee.
Saturday, July 22, 2017
DCC Amending Bylaws on GVAC Agenda Thursday Oct. 6, 2016
http://www.rdno.ca/bylaws/BL_2279_C.pdf
http://www.rdno.ca/bylaws/BL_1983_C.pdf
In October of 2016 amendments to the DCC bylaw for Parks and Water were approved and sent to the Provinces Inspector for approval.
Finally at the last RDNO meeting of July 19 they were unanimously approved and are now in effect.
(a) Pursuant to section 563(1 )(a) of the Local Government Act, Development Cost Charges for not-for-profit rental housing as defined in this bylaw are waived in their entirety.
(b) No Development Cost Charges shall be required to be paid where the building permit authorizes the construction, alteration or extension of a building or part of a building that will, after the construction, alteration or extension:
(i) Contain fewer than two (2) residential dwelling units; and
(ii) Be put to no use other than the residential use in those dwelling
units.
------------------
What is the effect of these changes:
"Not-for-profit rental housing" means low income housing that is owned by a nonprofit corporation incorporated under the Society Act or a government organization and occupied or intended to be occupied under tenancy agreements as defined in the Residential Tenancy Act,
For Non-Profits DCC's will be waived.
1 unit water DCC = 1857
1 unit Parks DCC = 3644
Total = $5501 per unit.
http://www.rdno.ca/bylaws/BL_1983_C.pdf
In October of 2016 amendments to the DCC bylaw for Parks and Water were approved and sent to the Provinces Inspector for approval.
Finally at the last RDNO meeting of July 19 they were unanimously approved and are now in effect.
(a) Pursuant to section 563(1 )(a) of the Local Government Act, Development Cost Charges for not-for-profit rental housing as defined in this bylaw are waived in their entirety.
(b) No Development Cost Charges shall be required to be paid where the building permit authorizes the construction, alteration or extension of a building or part of a building that will, after the construction, alteration or extension:
(i) Contain fewer than two (2) residential dwelling units; and
(ii) Be put to no use other than the residential use in those dwelling
units.
------------------
What is the effect of these changes:
"Not-for-profit rental housing" means low income housing that is owned by a nonprofit corporation incorporated under the Society Act or a government organization and occupied or intended to be occupied under tenancy agreements as defined in the Residential Tenancy Act,
For Non-Profits DCC's will be waived.
1 unit water DCC = 1857
1 unit Parks DCC = 3644
Total = $5501 per unit.
Friday, July 21, 2017
Cultural process proceeds
RICHARD ROLKE Morning Star Thu Jul 20th, 2017 6:00pmNEWS
Greater Vernon residents may get a chance next year to vote on the future of cultural amenities.On Thursday, the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee initiated a request for proposals to design and plan a multi-use cultural facility.“We will start working on the location and viability of mixed space,” said Juliette Cunningham, chairperson.Depending on how the process unfolds, a borrowing referendum for construction may be held by November 2018.“Ultimately, it will be the taxpayers that decide,” said Cunningham.
The Greater Vernon Museum would like a new facility from 23,0000 to 30,000-square-feet in size while the Vernon Public Art Gallery has stated 18,000-square-feet is needed for programming, exhibitions and storage.It has previously been suggested that the cost could be about $35 million, but the preliminary design and planning process would identify a more concrete price tag. A new art gallery was formerly targeted for the old flower shop site on 31st Avenue while it was previously proposed that the museum be expanded, but Cunningham says GVAC has no preconceived notions about location.“We want a comprehensive analysis on where it could be located,” she said, adding that while the issue of cultural facilities has been around for years, she is confident action is being taken. “I get the sense that there is political will to address it in a meaningful way.”
==========
http://www.rdno.ca/agendas/131205_gvac_agn.pdf p.33-221
http://vernonblog.blogspot.ca/2013/12/gvac-agenda-thursday-dec-5-8-am.html
Greater Vernon residents may get a chance next year to vote on the future of cultural amenities.On Thursday, the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee initiated a request for proposals to design and plan a multi-use cultural facility.“We will start working on the location and viability of mixed space,” said Juliette Cunningham, chairperson.Depending on how the process unfolds, a borrowing referendum for construction may be held by November 2018.“Ultimately, it will be the taxpayers that decide,” said Cunningham.
The Greater Vernon Museum would like a new facility from 23,0000 to 30,000-square-feet in size while the Vernon Public Art Gallery has stated 18,000-square-feet is needed for programming, exhibitions and storage.It has previously been suggested that the cost could be about $35 million, but the preliminary design and planning process would identify a more concrete price tag. A new art gallery was formerly targeted for the old flower shop site on 31st Avenue while it was previously proposed that the museum be expanded, but Cunningham says GVAC has no preconceived notions about location.“We want a comprehensive analysis on where it could be located,” she said, adding that while the issue of cultural facilities has been around for years, she is confident action is being taken. “I get the sense that there is political will to address it in a meaningful way.”
==========
http://www.rdno.ca/agendas/131205_gvac_agn.pdf p.33-221
http://vernonblog.blogspot.ca/2013/12/gvac-agenda-thursday-dec-5-8-am.html
Saturday, July 15, 2017
Duteau Creek Water Treatment Plant UV UpgradesTender
Awarded Bids (So Far)
Bid No. Description Closing Date Awarded to: Award Value
2017-E372.09.1 Ultraviolet Disinfection at Duteau Creek Water
Treatment Plant Project – Engineering Services
20-Jan-2017 Opus International Consultants (Canada) Ltd.
$399,870.00 (plus GST)
2017-E372.09.2 Ultraviolet Disinfection at
DCWTP Project - Equipment
23-Mar-2017 Xylem Canada Company
1,243,340.00 (plus GST)
===========
Duteau Creek Water Treatment Plant UV UpgradesTender No. 2017-E372-09.4 Closing Date: Thursday, August 10, 2017 - 2:00 pm
The Regional District of North Okanagan, hereinafter referred to as “Owner”, invites tenders for Regional District of North Okanagan Tender No. 2017-E372-09.4, the Duteau Creek Water Treatment Plant UV Upgrades (DCWTP UV Upgrades).
The work includes the supply of all labour, materials and equipment to construct the Duteau Creek WTP UV Building and related facilities. The work includes, but is not limited to, the earthworks, concrete works, structural, installation of owner supplied UV equipment, mechanical and electrical systems necessary for the complete upgrade as detailed in the Contract Documents.
Bid No. Description Closing Date Awarded to: Award Value
2017-E372.09.1 Ultraviolet Disinfection at Duteau Creek Water
Treatment Plant Project – Engineering Services
20-Jan-2017 Opus International Consultants (Canada) Ltd.
$399,870.00 (plus GST)
2017-E372.09.2 Ultraviolet Disinfection at
DCWTP Project - Equipment
23-Mar-2017 Xylem Canada Company
1,243,340.00 (plus GST)
===========
Duteau Creek Water Treatment Plant UV UpgradesTender No. 2017-E372-09.4 Closing Date: Thursday, August 10, 2017 - 2:00 pm
The Regional District of North Okanagan, hereinafter referred to as “Owner”, invites tenders for Regional District of North Okanagan Tender No. 2017-E372-09.4, the Duteau Creek Water Treatment Plant UV Upgrades (DCWTP UV Upgrades).
The work includes the supply of all labour, materials and equipment to construct the Duteau Creek WTP UV Building and related facilities. The work includes, but is not limited to, the earthworks, concrete works, structural, installation of owner supplied UV equipment, mechanical and electrical systems necessary for the complete upgrade as detailed in the Contract Documents.
Multi-use Cultural Facility – Preliminary Design and Planning RFP
GREATER VERNON ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING
Thursday, July 20, 2017 Boardroom - 9848 Aberdeen Road, Coldstream, BC 9:00 a.m.
Multi-use Cultural Facility – Preliminary Design and Planning RFP
Staff reported dated June 14, 2017
RECOMMENDATION 2 Page 2 - 10
That it be recommended to the Board of Directors, staff be directed to issue the RFP #2017-P12 – Greater Vernon Multi-Purpose Cultural Facility Functional Program, Site Analysis and Conceptual Design, as included in the staff report dated June 14, 2017.
170614_RPT_GVAC_MPCF_Workplan
Thursday, July 20, 2017 Boardroom - 9848 Aberdeen Road, Coldstream, BC 9:00 a.m.
Multi-use Cultural Facility – Preliminary Design and Planning RFP
Staff reported dated June 14, 2017
RECOMMENDATION 2 Page 2 - 10
That it be recommended to the Board of Directors, staff be directed to issue the RFP #2017-P12 – Greater Vernon Multi-Purpose Cultural Facility Functional Program, Site Analysis and Conceptual Design, as included in the staff report dated June 14, 2017.
170614_RPT_GVAC_MPCF_Workplan
Tuesday, July 04, 2017
Efforts Proceed In Bid for BX Park Land
Vernon, BC, Canada / 1075 KISS FM Tom Mark July 04, 2017 08:08 am
A group hoping to retain a large section of BX Ranch land for future green space is buoyed by the support is getting. About 50 people turned out for a meeting to discuss the issue. The 55 hectare section is owned by the regional district, but has been marked for possible sale. Spokesman Terry Donnelly with the BX Ranch Land Task Force says they discussed going before local councils. “We hope to appear before the regional district board and the city council and Coldstream Council in the fall. We hope to have a little time, you know what we hope to see fore the future of this parcel of land.” They’d like to see it as an Agricultural Park. Donnelly thinks the group still has time to try to save it. “There’s things that they have to do first before the subdivision is finalized. The land commission has put some conditions on the subdivision so it’s not two parcels of land yet.” One parcel will be used to link BX dog park with Mutrie park. The other is a 55 hectare stretch that is currently being farmed on a lease but could be sold.
Sunday, June 25, 2017
Greater Vernon Water Master Water Plan Financial Implementation Strategy
https://rdno.civicweb.net/document/74346 (P.111-127)
• Staff report dated May 29, 2017
• Staff presentation (to be circulated)
RECOMMENDATION 6 Page 111 - 127
That the report dated May 29, 2017 from the Manager, Utility Operations and the General Manager, Finance titled “Greater Vernon Water Master Water Plan Financial Implementation
Strategy ” be received for information.
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Excerpts: (Click to enlarge)
• Staff report dated May 29, 2017
• Staff presentation (to be circulated)
RECOMMENDATION 6 Page 111 - 127
That the report dated May 29, 2017 from the Manager, Utility Operations and the General Manager, Finance titled “Greater Vernon Water Master Water Plan Financial Implementation
Strategy ” be received for information.
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Excerpts: (Click to enlarge)
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