Arena process off to Victoria

by Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star posted Jul 24, 2015 at 1:00 AM
The regulatory process for a new arena in Greater Vernon is moving ahead. Regional District of North Okanagan directors gave three readings to several bylaws Wednesday that sets the stage for a fall referendum on a new ice sheet at Kal Tire Place. “The goal has been to twin the surface,” said director Juliette Cunningham. “We still have the same level of commitment from the partners.” All of the bylaws have now been sent off to the Ministry of Community Development for approval. “We expect to have the process proceed,” said Cunningham. RDNO had hoped to hold a borrowing referendum in November 2014 but the provincial government blocked that process because Kal Tire Place is owned by the City of Vernon. To satisfy ministry guidelines, the new strategy is for the regional district to borrow $13 million and own the new ice sheet. A long-term lease would place it in the hands of the city. If a referendum is successful, the new ice sheet would replace the 78-year-old Civic Arena.