User Group Positive To Complex Downscale

Written by Peter McIntyre  107.5 KISSFM  Wednesday, 28 November 2012 12:00
  At least one user group is reacting favourably to GVAC's decision to look at downscaling the Okanagan College sports complex. Directors have asked RDNO staff to look at ways to pare down the $8.5 million cost, to make it more acceptable to Greater Vernon voters in an April 6 referendum. Bill Tarr, vice president of the Vernon and District Minor Football Association supports the direction taken by politicians. "I do believe it is always in the best interest of our community to make sure that we are all fiscally responsible with our tax dollars. "I am sure that the Community Sports Complex "user groups" will be asked for input on this matter and we will be eager to assist in any way possible, Tarr tells Kiss FM.

Dauna Kennedy-Grant, executive director of the Vernon Art Gallery says they're disappointed in the decision to not include them in the April referendum, but they still hope to get on the ballot next spring. "They've made that decision (but) we will be meeting with them to find out if there are any possibilities of turning that around," she tells Kiss FM. Kennedy-Grant says they have a business plan and a site on 31st Avenue, and are ready to go. She says next best scenario would be to have a vote later next year, but says that would mean a lot of missed opportunities. "We had identified some provincial and federal dollars that could maybe come into the project, and those dollars could be at risk by delaying it to the fall." Kennedy-Grant says a delay could also likely put an end to plans to host a major international event in 2015, as a new facility wouldn't be ready in time.