Support is being pitched for a sports complex in Coldstream’s backyard. Coldstream council is encouraging a referendum to borrow funds to construct a sports facility at Okanagan College. Local politicians say the Kalamalka college site is the only choice, despite a recent suggestion that Kin Race Track be considered. “Unfortunately there was some misunderstanding,” said Coun. Gyula Kiss, of Kin being suggested as an option. “As far as I’m concerned, (Kin) is not an option.” There is also some debate about what the proposed sports facility will include and how much it will cost. Originally, the facility was proposed to cost $6 million for a football turf area, rubberized track, change facility and classroom and lighting. The projected cost has since jumped to $8.5 million and Mayor Jim Garlick suggests that figure needs to be re-examined. A referendum could take place in the fall or next spring.
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Coldstream considers parks ownership options
There is an option for Coldstream to take over ownership and/or care of its own parks. Those are considerations the district, Vernon and the electoral areas are looking at as part of the Greater Vernon parks and recreation service review. “Both of them have their challenges,” said Mayor Jim Garlick of the options. “Going in the direction of ownership we have a partner in the City of Vernon that opposes that direction.” There are also challenges around Coldstream gaining the contract for parks in the district due to governance. “The City of Vernon may have to bend a little on governance,” said Garlick. One underlying issue is Coldstream’s representation, or lack of, at the Regional District of North Okanagan (which the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee operates under). Vernon is gaining a fourth seat at the RDNO table, which is made up of 13. “Vernon will have a weighted vote,” said Coun. Maria Besso, who has been lobbying for Coldstream to gain a second seat. She isn’t keen on seeing Vernon hold a majority on decisions of Coldstream’s parks and green spaces. Service review discussions took place Tuesday night and continue Thursday. “I think we will know better by Thursday evening where this stands,” said Garlick
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