Vernon council is not flushing away ongoing concerns about a lack of public washrooms in the downtown. After a lengthy debate, council has agreed to spend $75,000 to purchase a relocatable washroom to be in Cenotaph Park. Another $72,000 will be budgeted for maintenance costs in 2013. Councillor Patrick Nicol says after all the money the city has spent on acquiring land in that area, it only makes sense to provide washrooms for shoppers, transit users, and even people attending events at the nearby Civic Complex. "It's reasonable to have a washroom in the downtown area that is accessible. We should make that a commitment. It doesn't have to be open 24-7." Other options included using the washrooms in the former library building, and waiting to see if the art gallery will proceed with its new building near the Medical Clinic site. Councillor Brian Quiring says it's much needed for shoppers and transit users, even though he would have preferred a more permanent structure. "I just was of the opinion that we probably should build something permanent instead of something temporary but we can probably re-sell it if and when the art gallery proceeds with their new building." City staff say the temporary facilities are far from being port-a-potties, having all the amenities of regular washrooms, with the ability to move to different venues. It's not known how quickly the facility can be purchased and moved onto the park site, but it will be adjacent to Toppers Cleaners along 31st Avenue.
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Vernon flushes out big bucks for washroom By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: July 23, 2012 5:00 PM
The people's business will cost a few dollars. The bulk of Vernon council voted Monday to spend $75,000 on a relocatable washroom facility that will be installed in Cenotaph Park on 31st Avenue. "It's actually ridiculous we don't have pubic washrooms," said Coun. Juliette Cunningham. "It's been council after council deferring making a decision on this." Cunningham says the trailer-like facility will benefit people shopping downtown, transit users and residents attending special events at the nearby Spirit Square. On top of purchasing the facility, council has agreed to budget up to $72,000 in 2013 for maintenance. If the trailer doesn't arrive until winter, it may not be installed until the spring. Look for more details in Wednesday's Morning Star.
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