posted Jul 3, 2015 at 1:00 AM Morning Star:
There will be some excited about the news that Greater Vernon’s new sports facility will partially be open by late July. But for others, it will be no different than pouring salt into an open wound. Many residents didn’t support construction of the track and fields next to the college right from the get-go, and among those that did, there is likely some frustration over how the project has progressed. After all, the original plan called for the facility to be completed by the end of 2014, except for some landscaping, as part of a land use agreement with the Agricultural Land Commission. However, here we are at July 3, and the black underlay for the track is just down, and the contractors will soon be installing the low-impact surface. On top of this, completion is further delayed because of the last-minute decision by the Regional District of North Okanagan to install showers in the washrooms. Showers were originally scrapped from the design to save some cash, but the public rightly protested that athletes are going to want somewhere to wash up. And of course there is the fact that the financial estimates for construction have been blown apart. It was announced in March that the $7.5 million athletic park is $790,000 over budget, and then in April, $340,000 was taken out of reserves for showers if grants can’t be found. In the end, the facility will be a tremendous asset for locals wanting to pursue sports, while the economy will get a boost from tournaments and special events. However, the process leading up to the track may force some to reconsider financial support for future amenities on the books.
Showing posts with label 2015 GVAC Budget. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2015 GVAC Budget. Show all posts
Friday, July 03, 2015
Friday, June 05, 2015
Cultural Group Guidelines
Posted on 6/5/2015 by Pete McIntyre 107.5 KISSFM
Local politicians are putting some general guidelines in place to help deal with cultural groups. Greater Vernon Advisory Committee director Doug Dirk says its part of developing the new ten year cultural plan. "Just moving to bring some order to everything that was existing because we have different agreements with different groups. Some involved societies, some didn't, some have an accountability through contracts and agreements and some didn't." BX-Silver Star director Mike Macnabb is concerned about providing facilities to cultural groups that meet certain criteria. "We don't want to have small interest groups to come forward and say we meet the criteria without having some obligation to bring to the table something more than just an interest." G-VAC chair Juliette Cunningham says they want to create a consistent process. "Currently its a bit one-off here and there and not treating each group equally and also trying to break it down into different categories and how you would, to what level you would support each group in the community." Under the new rules, the regional district will only fund independent registered societies, and only to groups that have an operating agreement or contract-for-services in place.
Local politicians are putting some general guidelines in place to help deal with cultural groups. Greater Vernon Advisory Committee director Doug Dirk says its part of developing the new ten year cultural plan. "Just moving to bring some order to everything that was existing because we have different agreements with different groups. Some involved societies, some didn't, some have an accountability through contracts and agreements and some didn't." BX-Silver Star director Mike Macnabb is concerned about providing facilities to cultural groups that meet certain criteria. "We don't want to have small interest groups to come forward and say we meet the criteria without having some obligation to bring to the table something more than just an interest." G-VAC chair Juliette Cunningham says they want to create a consistent process. "Currently its a bit one-off here and there and not treating each group equally and also trying to break it down into different categories and how you would, to what level you would support each group in the community." Under the new rules, the regional district will only fund independent registered societies, and only to groups that have an operating agreement or contract-for-services in place.
Friday, May 22, 2015
New Sports Facilities Useable by Summer
Posted on 5/22/2015 by Pete McIntyre 107.5 KISSFM
It now looks like a grand opening for the Greater Vernon Sports Facility will take place early this fall. The track and field venue, given the go-ahead by voters two years ago, is nearing completion, with the rubberized Olympic running track going in this week. G-VAC director Bob Fleming says the public should be able to use the facilities by July. "It'll be open and available to use short of having completed showers and so on in the summer but now we're looking at a fall day just because adding the showers extended from being the end of June to sometime in August I think." " I would hope that by the summer we will have a soft opening, it won't be the grand opening, but we'll have the soft opening. Facilities can start to get used. You won't be able to run on the grass field because it's still growing in, but everything else will be more or less set to go." Fleming says everything should be completed by September. Back in April, directors approved spending an extra 340-thousand dollars to add showers to the change rooms.
It now looks like a grand opening for the Greater Vernon Sports Facility will take place early this fall. The track and field venue, given the go-ahead by voters two years ago, is nearing completion, with the rubberized Olympic running track going in this week. G-VAC director Bob Fleming says the public should be able to use the facilities by July. "It'll be open and available to use short of having completed showers and so on in the summer but now we're looking at a fall day just because adding the showers extended from being the end of June to sometime in August I think." " I would hope that by the summer we will have a soft opening, it won't be the grand opening, but we'll have the soft opening. Facilities can start to get used. You won't be able to run on the grass field because it's still growing in, but everything else will be more or less set to go." Fleming says everything should be completed by September. Back in April, directors approved spending an extra 340-thousand dollars to add showers to the change rooms.
Monday, April 20, 2015
Showers back in at track by Kevin Rothwell CASTANET - Apr 20, 2015 / 1:29 pm
by Kevin Rothwell CASTANET - Apr 20, 2015 / 1:29 pm
The cost of Vernon's new running track is going up again. An additional $340,000 will be added to the $7.5-million Greater Vernon community sports field and athletics facility – which is already over budget. Regional District of North Okanagan directors have made an amendment to RDNO's 2015 financial plan to allow for the extra cost, which will fund the addition of showers to the amenities building at the new facility beside Okanagan College's Vernon campus. This is an enhancement to the approved plan. In fact, showers were originally planned, then cut out of the project to save money. Now, they are back in. The contractor estimates a savings of approximately $75,000-$100,000 compared to renovating the building to add showers after completion. “Grants to assist with the cost of this addition are being vigorously pursued,” said David Sewell, the RDNO's chief administrative officer. Reserves from the Greater Vernon sub-regional parks function will be used to cover the costs beyond the grant amounts received. The construction costs are so far $500,000 over budget. The change may also delay the opening of the facility until August, instead of June.
Showers On Tap For Sports Facility
Posted on 4/20/2015 by Pete McIntyre 107.5 KISSFM
The cost for Greater Vernon's new sports field has gone up. The regional district's board has approved adding 340-thousand dollars to the project for showers in the change rooms. Regional District of North Okanagan administrator David Sewell says adding the showers now, will save $75,000 to $100,000 compared to adding them after the facilities are completed. "The intent was, by doing it now we are minimizing the impact so we can do as much of it as concurrent," Sewell tells Kiss FM. Sewell says grants to cover the cost of the addition are being pursued, and reserves will be used for the rest. He says there was demand for the showers. "It was a feature that was desired, and at the end of the day, it's a balancing act in terms of what you can provide, and what's necessary," says Sewell. The extra work could push final completion of the project to August. The 7.5 million dollar facility next to Okanagan College is already several hundred thousand dollars over budget. "My understanding is we are about $490,000 for the existing project and this is going to add another $340,000," says Sewell.
The cost for Greater Vernon's new sports field has gone up. The regional district's board has approved adding 340-thousand dollars to the project for showers in the change rooms. Regional District of North Okanagan administrator David Sewell says adding the showers now, will save $75,000 to $100,000 compared to adding them after the facilities are completed. "The intent was, by doing it now we are minimizing the impact so we can do as much of it as concurrent," Sewell tells Kiss FM. Sewell says grants to cover the cost of the addition are being pursued, and reserves will be used for the rest. He says there was demand for the showers. "It was a feature that was desired, and at the end of the day, it's a balancing act in terms of what you can provide, and what's necessary," says Sewell. The extra work could push final completion of the project to August. The 7.5 million dollar facility next to Okanagan College is already several hundred thousand dollars over budget. "My understanding is we are about $490,000 for the existing project and this is going to add another $340,000," says Sewell.
Sunday, April 19, 2015
Showers on track for new facility
by Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star posted Apr 19, 2015 at 1:00 AM
Athletes will be able to get squeaky clean after working up a sweat at the new sports complex. The Regional District of North Okanagan board gave the green light Wednesday to spend $340,000 on showers in the change rooms at the Greater Vernon Athletic Park. “This decision is precipitated by granting but we can’t say where it’s coming from because they haven’t announced it yet,” said director Bob Fleming of the outside agency providing funds. “We have strong promises and verbal commitments but we don’t have cheques yet.” If all of the grants don’t materialize, RDNO will dip into reserves to complete the project. “It’s not adding to anyone’s taxes,” said Fleming, who admits the price tag for showers is steep. “It seems like a lot of money and that’s why it wasn’t put into the original facility budget.” However, he says the project requires more than shower heads and drains. “The roof will be redesigned to accommodate the showers, walls will be installed and plumbing will be installed. It’s a square footage expansion.” RDNO’s decision on showers means the interior of the washroom building won’t be completed until possibly August instead of an early July opening. Fleming believes sports groups will be happy with the move. “We were hearing about a lack of showers from a lot of people.” It was announced in March that the $7.5 million athletic park is $790,000 over budget.
Athletes will be able to get squeaky clean after working up a sweat at the new sports complex. The Regional District of North Okanagan board gave the green light Wednesday to spend $340,000 on showers in the change rooms at the Greater Vernon Athletic Park. “This decision is precipitated by granting but we can’t say where it’s coming from because they haven’t announced it yet,” said director Bob Fleming of the outside agency providing funds. “We have strong promises and verbal commitments but we don’t have cheques yet.” If all of the grants don’t materialize, RDNO will dip into reserves to complete the project. “It’s not adding to anyone’s taxes,” said Fleming, who admits the price tag for showers is steep. “It seems like a lot of money and that’s why it wasn’t put into the original facility budget.” However, he says the project requires more than shower heads and drains. “The roof will be redesigned to accommodate the showers, walls will be installed and plumbing will be installed. It’s a square footage expansion.” RDNO’s decision on showers means the interior of the washroom building won’t be completed until possibly August instead of an early July opening. Fleming believes sports groups will be happy with the move. “We were hearing about a lack of showers from a lot of people.” It was announced in March that the $7.5 million athletic park is $790,000 over budget.
Sunday, March 22, 2015
Regional district finalizes financial plan
by Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star posted Mar 20, 2015 at 1:00 AM
The Regional District of North Okanagan’s latest financial plan is a done deal. On Wednesday, the board adopted the 2015 budget, which has gone from $75.1 million last year to $65.2 million. “We’ve lived up to our initial goal which was to reduce spending,” said chairperson Rick Fairbairn. The operating budget is $40.9 million, down from $41.6 million, while the capital budget has gone from $33.5 to $24.3 million. The decrease in spending is largely a result of restructuring Greater Vernon’s parks and recreation function but a number of other services will either see a decrease or no increase in expenditures. A change in the 911 provider also reduced overall expenses. The total tax requisition for 2015 is $15.6 million, down from $17.6 million in 2014. Each community is requisitioned taxes based on services it receives from RDNO, and that can even vary from neighbourhood to neighbourhood. Lone opposition to the budget came from director Bob Spiers, who was concerned about Greater Vernon water rates and the amount of reserves in the Greater Vernon culture service. “The reserves in 010 (general government service) are ridiculously high,” he said.
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Don Quixote Note: My opposition was based on the 2% water Rates increase, not delaying the design of the 2 water projects ($841,000) that were part of the 6 proposals in the Water Referendum and the building up of more reserves ($368,000) in this function. I had similar reserve concerns about stockpiling more reserves in the Performing Arts Function ($224,430 additional) and the General Govt. Function where the reserve has grown to in excess of $1.6 million. All these concerns are to be addressed at a proposed reserve workshop and/or the master water plan discussions in 2015.
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| The $15.6 Million 2015 Tax Requisition. Vernon Participates in these functions at different levels. Vernon's $ Share by function will be presented by April 15. Water Function not part of list as it isn't part of Taxation (yet?) |
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Don Quixote Note: My opposition was based on the 2% water Rates increase, not delaying the design of the 2 water projects ($841,000) that were part of the 6 proposals in the Water Referendum and the building up of more reserves ($368,000) in this function. I had similar reserve concerns about stockpiling more reserves in the Performing Arts Function ($224,430 additional) and the General Govt. Function where the reserve has grown to in excess of $1.6 million. All these concerns are to be addressed at a proposed reserve workshop and/or the master water plan discussions in 2015.
Thursday, March 19, 2015
2% Water Rate Hike Approved
Written by Ron Manz 107.5 KISSFM Thursday, 19 March 2015 09:30
The Regional District of the North Okanagan has approved a 2 percent hike on local water rates. The hike should add some $360-thousand dollars to the reserve fund that sits at $15-million right now....the money to be put towards future water projects. BX-Silver Star director Mike Macnabb says Greater Vernon Water has a user pay system with a fixed block rate of about $100 per quarter, and then the 2% now added to any water used over and above that. " If you look at it from that perspective, the two percent is across the board for everybody. Those that use more water, obviously they have the fixed fee and the two percent on top of the more expensive water as you use more of it." Macnabb says a number of projects that were planned for last year and weren't completed and have now been rolled over to this coming year.
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Don Quixote Note: the 2% Interactive Residential Water calculator can be accessed at:
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1mXz0UDz-2so4yUP_TGA8Hb5eeYawjBfALSJqpuwIJbo/edit#gid=0
The Regional District of the North Okanagan has approved a 2 percent hike on local water rates. The hike should add some $360-thousand dollars to the reserve fund that sits at $15-million right now....the money to be put towards future water projects. BX-Silver Star director Mike Macnabb says Greater Vernon Water has a user pay system with a fixed block rate of about $100 per quarter, and then the 2% now added to any water used over and above that. " If you look at it from that perspective, the two percent is across the board for everybody. Those that use more water, obviously they have the fixed fee and the two percent on top of the more expensive water as you use more of it." Macnabb says a number of projects that were planned for last year and weren't completed and have now been rolled over to this coming year.
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Don Quixote Note: the 2% Interactive Residential Water calculator can be accessed at:
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1mXz0UDz-2so4yUP_TGA8Hb5eeYawjBfALSJqpuwIJbo/edit#gid=0
Friday, March 06, 2015
Call For Plan Ban Rejected
Written by Peter McIntyre 107.5 KISSFM Friday, 06 March 2015 16:21
A citizen's group says public opinion appears to be swaying over the direction of Greater Vernon's master water plan. Terry Mooney from Citizens For Change is pleased to hear local politicians at least talking about limiting the Duteau Creek source to farming, and switching domestic customers to Kalamalka and Okanagan lakes which he says would be far less costly. "I think there's a will now for the public representatives to at least have a good look at this master water plan and fix the mistakes that were made in the 1960's and 70's," Mooney tells Kiss FM. Mooney says his group is disappointed the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee decided against a moratorium on all master water plan projects based on last November's failed referendum. "We were trying to make the distinction that it has nothing to do with the day to day operations, but we still need the direction that money is not to be spent on any of the six projects tied to the referendum," says Mooney. GVAC vice chair Jim Garlick disagreed, saying that vote was for borrowing 70 million dollars for six projects, not a vote on the plan itself. BX Silver Star director Mike Macnabb led the opposition to the motion made by Coldstream director Gyula Kiss, saying a ban doesn't make sense, given that everything they do with water, relates to the master water plan. Vernon director Bob Spiers supported the ban, saying if at some point they decide the Duteau source won't be used for domestic use, studies in this year's budget will be unnecessary. "Why spend that money?, asked Spiers. "It should be put into a pending reserve for master water plan projects."
A citizen's group says public opinion appears to be swaying over the direction of Greater Vernon's master water plan. Terry Mooney from Citizens For Change is pleased to hear local politicians at least talking about limiting the Duteau Creek source to farming, and switching domestic customers to Kalamalka and Okanagan lakes which he says would be far less costly. "I think there's a will now for the public representatives to at least have a good look at this master water plan and fix the mistakes that were made in the 1960's and 70's," Mooney tells Kiss FM. Mooney says his group is disappointed the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee decided against a moratorium on all master water plan projects based on last November's failed referendum. "We were trying to make the distinction that it has nothing to do with the day to day operations, but we still need the direction that money is not to be spent on any of the six projects tied to the referendum," says Mooney. GVAC vice chair Jim Garlick disagreed, saying that vote was for borrowing 70 million dollars for six projects, not a vote on the plan itself. BX Silver Star director Mike Macnabb led the opposition to the motion made by Coldstream director Gyula Kiss, saying a ban doesn't make sense, given that everything they do with water, relates to the master water plan. Vernon director Bob Spiers supported the ban, saying if at some point they decide the Duteau source won't be used for domestic use, studies in this year's budget will be unnecessary. "Why spend that money?, asked Spiers. "It should be put into a pending reserve for master water plan projects."
Bid sparks water fight
by Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star posted Mar 6, 2015 at 1:00 AM
Emotions ran high as Greater Vernon politicians went head-to-head over water infrastructure. Director Gyula Kiss called for a moratorium on all master water plan expenditures and for those items to be removed from the 2015 Greater Vernon Advisory Committee budget Thursday. “I see this as a direct end-run around us already approving the budget,” said director Bob Fleming. Kiss argued the items should not proceed because a majority of voters did not back a November referendum to borrow $70 million for capital works. “If the master water plan has no funding, there is no master water plan,” he said. However, opposition came from director Mike Macnabb. “Everything we do to make things (water utility) more efficient came out of the master water plan. The referendum was defeated but the master water plan is still there.” Zee Marcolin, utility manager, told the committee that most projects outlined in the 2015 capital budget don’t include items from the master water plan. It was also pointed out that despite Kiss’ motion, the Regional District of North Okanagan board had already approved GVAC’s 2015 budget. “The majority of the people present passed the budget. By revisiting it now, we are rehashing something the majority has already decided,” said director Catherine Lord. Kiss had his supporters, though, including director Bob Spiers, who says the six projects in the master water plan should be stalled until the document can be revisited. “Are they completely necessary?” he said. Given the referendum results, director Scott Anderson suggested master water plan projects shouldn’t proceed, but vice-chairman Jim Garlick countered that the referendum was about borrowing $70 million. “It was not a vote on the master water plan,” said Garlick, adding the Interior Health Authority’s water quality standards must be met. Ultimately, Kiss’ motion was defeated. Also on Thursday, GVAC directors increased 2015 water rates by two per cent. “Two per cent is the lowest since I’ve been sitting here and it reflects what the service needs,” said Fleming.
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EDITORIAL: Water vote is over, move on
by Editorial - Vernon Morning Star posted Mar 6, 2015 at 1:00 AM
Anxiety and downright hostility towards Greater Vernon’s failed $70 million water referendum still exists. However, those emotions can’t overshadow everything the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee does. On Thursday, director Gyula Kiss unsuccessfully attempted to have a moratorium placed on any master water plan expenditures and for those items to be pulled out of GVAC’s 2015 budget because the plan does not have electoral assent. “If the master water plan has no funding, there is no master water plan,” he said. However, one can make the argument that the master water plan is simply a blueprint for future works. Yes there is a need to reconsider the scope of the plan given the failed referendum but keep in mind that the works are mandated by the provincial government’s water quality guidelines, and they will proceed if funding is available. “Everything we do to make things (water utility) more efficient came out of the master water plan. The referendum was defeated but the master water plan is still there,” said director Mike Macnabb. And while there are some controversial items in the master water plan, such as filtration on Duteau Creek, others are relatively basic, such as promoting increased water conservation. Kiss’ motion, had it been successful, would have reopened GVAC’s 2015 budget, which has already received the green light from the Regional District of North Okanagan board. That would have possibly delayed the setting of water rates and proceeding with critical system upgrades this year. In the end, the outcome of the November referendum is known far and wide and the battle doesn’t need to be fought again. It’s time to move on.
Emotions ran high as Greater Vernon politicians went head-to-head over water infrastructure. Director Gyula Kiss called for a moratorium on all master water plan expenditures and for those items to be removed from the 2015 Greater Vernon Advisory Committee budget Thursday. “I see this as a direct end-run around us already approving the budget,” said director Bob Fleming. Kiss argued the items should not proceed because a majority of voters did not back a November referendum to borrow $70 million for capital works. “If the master water plan has no funding, there is no master water plan,” he said. However, opposition came from director Mike Macnabb. “Everything we do to make things (water utility) more efficient came out of the master water plan. The referendum was defeated but the master water plan is still there.” Zee Marcolin, utility manager, told the committee that most projects outlined in the 2015 capital budget don’t include items from the master water plan. It was also pointed out that despite Kiss’ motion, the Regional District of North Okanagan board had already approved GVAC’s 2015 budget. “The majority of the people present passed the budget. By revisiting it now, we are rehashing something the majority has already decided,” said director Catherine Lord. Kiss had his supporters, though, including director Bob Spiers, who says the six projects in the master water plan should be stalled until the document can be revisited. “Are they completely necessary?” he said. Given the referendum results, director Scott Anderson suggested master water plan projects shouldn’t proceed, but vice-chairman Jim Garlick countered that the referendum was about borrowing $70 million. “It was not a vote on the master water plan,” said Garlick, adding the Interior Health Authority’s water quality standards must be met. Ultimately, Kiss’ motion was defeated. Also on Thursday, GVAC directors increased 2015 water rates by two per cent. “Two per cent is the lowest since I’ve been sitting here and it reflects what the service needs,” said Fleming.------------
EDITORIAL: Water vote is over, move on
by Editorial - Vernon Morning Star posted Mar 6, 2015 at 1:00 AM
Anxiety and downright hostility towards Greater Vernon’s failed $70 million water referendum still exists. However, those emotions can’t overshadow everything the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee does. On Thursday, director Gyula Kiss unsuccessfully attempted to have a moratorium placed on any master water plan expenditures and for those items to be pulled out of GVAC’s 2015 budget because the plan does not have electoral assent. “If the master water plan has no funding, there is no master water plan,” he said. However, one can make the argument that the master water plan is simply a blueprint for future works. Yes there is a need to reconsider the scope of the plan given the failed referendum but keep in mind that the works are mandated by the provincial government’s water quality guidelines, and they will proceed if funding is available. “Everything we do to make things (water utility) more efficient came out of the master water plan. The referendum was defeated but the master water plan is still there,” said director Mike Macnabb. And while there are some controversial items in the master water plan, such as filtration on Duteau Creek, others are relatively basic, such as promoting increased water conservation. Kiss’ motion, had it been successful, would have reopened GVAC’s 2015 budget, which has already received the green light from the Regional District of North Okanagan board. That would have possibly delayed the setting of water rates and proceeding with critical system upgrades this year. In the end, the outcome of the November referendum is known far and wide and the battle doesn’t need to be fought again. It’s time to move on.
Thursday, March 05, 2015
Water Rates Raised After Debate
Written by Peter McIntyre 107.5 KISSFM Thursday, 05 March 2015 16:06
It will cost two percent more to turn on the tap in Greater Vernon this year. That across-the-board rate increase has been approved by the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee after a two hour long discussion, but it was far from unanimous with three opponents. BX-Silver Star director Mike Macnabb supported it, calling it a prudent and conservative increase that will fund the system and put 368-thousand dollars into reserves. "We are also going to have more philosophical discussions about how do we partition it. What's a fixed portion (base fee) and what's the variable portion for users, so it's a good start," Macnabb tells Kiss FM. Vernon director Bob Spiers would like to see agricultural rates rise 10 percent to cover more of the costs for farming water. "The ag cost is conservatively estimated to be $1.4 million a year, and they're contributing right now 700-thousand," says Spiers. The board's farming rep Ted Osborn says the impact of such an increase would have to be looked at, before being implemented. Spiers, along with Vernon's Scott Anderson and Coldstream's Gyula Kiss voted against the rate hike. "I think it should have been zero,"says Spiers. "I've always wanted no more than zero and we're just adding to our reserves, so it makes no real sense to me." Spiers says Greater Vernon Water's current reserve for future needs is at 15 million dollars. Vernon director Catherine Lord calls the two percent hike minimal as she backed it. "Having a minimum cost in place is not going to hurt anything right now. It's actually going to be beneficial because in the long run we are going to need to replace all that infrastructure, so one way or the other, we are gong to need those reserves," says Lord. The board will have a deeper discussion about the rates -- and whether agriculture should pay more of its share -- at a later date.
It will cost two percent more to turn on the tap in Greater Vernon this year. That across-the-board rate increase has been approved by the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee after a two hour long discussion, but it was far from unanimous with three opponents. BX-Silver Star director Mike Macnabb supported it, calling it a prudent and conservative increase that will fund the system and put 368-thousand dollars into reserves. "We are also going to have more philosophical discussions about how do we partition it. What's a fixed portion (base fee) and what's the variable portion for users, so it's a good start," Macnabb tells Kiss FM. Vernon director Bob Spiers would like to see agricultural rates rise 10 percent to cover more of the costs for farming water. "The ag cost is conservatively estimated to be $1.4 million a year, and they're contributing right now 700-thousand," says Spiers. The board's farming rep Ted Osborn says the impact of such an increase would have to be looked at, before being implemented. Spiers, along with Vernon's Scott Anderson and Coldstream's Gyula Kiss voted against the rate hike. "I think it should have been zero,"says Spiers. "I've always wanted no more than zero and we're just adding to our reserves, so it makes no real sense to me." Spiers says Greater Vernon Water's current reserve for future needs is at 15 million dollars. Vernon director Catherine Lord calls the two percent hike minimal as she backed it. "Having a minimum cost in place is not going to hurt anything right now. It's actually going to be beneficial because in the long run we are going to need to replace all that infrastructure, so one way or the other, we are gong to need those reserves," says Lord. The board will have a deeper discussion about the rates -- and whether agriculture should pay more of its share -- at a later date.
Monday, March 02, 2015
Surprise construction costs blow new Vernon sports track budget
March 02, 2015 - 4:42 PM By Charlotte Helston INFO-TEL Multimedia
VERNON - Unexpected costs mean Vernon’s new sports track is more than three quarters of a million dollars over budget. But taxpayers shouldn’t worry about the $790,000 overrun, says Greater Vernon director Mike Macnabb. The extra funding is expected to be recovered through reserves and donations. “We have a very aggressive plan to get some contributions from various sports groups,” Macnabb says. “Also, we have gone forward with a proposal for naming rights.” The $7.5 million facility as a whole will be called the Greater Vernon Athletic Park, but naming rights will be available for individual pieces like the track itself, or the stands. A big reason the cost is so much higher than anticipated is due to a surprise finding in the soil. Initial test holes missed a large clay deposit in a corner of the site which later had to be dug out and filled in with new material. Other factors that played into the unforeseen costs were the plummeting Canadian dollar, and difficulty finding workers due to competition with the Alberta oil patch. Certain features of the facility were cut — such as showers in the change rooms — to keep costs down. Those, and other additions, can be added in the future, Macnabb says. Construction is expected to wrap up in June, but Macnabb says the facility won’t be used for any big events for awhile. “We’d like to run a full year just using it and making sure everything is up to snuff, then go hard at trying to get competitions like the Seniors Games to come to Vernon,” Macnabb says. “The facility itself is going to be a huge asset to the community.”
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Running track over budget
by Kevin Rothwell CASTANET - Mar 2, 2015 / 6:00 pm
Budget cuts are being made to the newest Greater Vernon sports facility in an effort to rein in spiralling costs. The new football/soccer field and running track under construction next to Okanagan College, budgeted for $7.5 million, is nearly $800,000 over budget. Despite extensive soil testing, a patch of clay in the northwest corner of the facility was missed, resulting in removal and replacement costs. Materials and labour costs also increased as a result of Alberta oilpatch demand for skilled workers. To reduce costs, the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee has decided athlete showers aren’t necessary. Also, taxes are being used to acquire a turf maintenance machine, rolling covers, soccer goals, players and coach’s benches and hurdles. The clay remediation and additional building costs will be covered from reserves and user groups are being asked to step up as well to provide funds for additional amenities. The company installing the bleachers is booked up for the Pan Am Games and may not have the seating in place by the June 15 deadline, but the facility is still scheduled for a ribbon cutting in late June.
VERNON - Unexpected costs mean Vernon’s new sports track is more than three quarters of a million dollars over budget. But taxpayers shouldn’t worry about the $790,000 overrun, says Greater Vernon director Mike Macnabb. The extra funding is expected to be recovered through reserves and donations. “We have a very aggressive plan to get some contributions from various sports groups,” Macnabb says. “Also, we have gone forward with a proposal for naming rights.” The $7.5 million facility as a whole will be called the Greater Vernon Athletic Park, but naming rights will be available for individual pieces like the track itself, or the stands. A big reason the cost is so much higher than anticipated is due to a surprise finding in the soil. Initial test holes missed a large clay deposit in a corner of the site which later had to be dug out and filled in with new material. Other factors that played into the unforeseen costs were the plummeting Canadian dollar, and difficulty finding workers due to competition with the Alberta oil patch. Certain features of the facility were cut — such as showers in the change rooms — to keep costs down. Those, and other additions, can be added in the future, Macnabb says. Construction is expected to wrap up in June, but Macnabb says the facility won’t be used for any big events for awhile. “We’d like to run a full year just using it and making sure everything is up to snuff, then go hard at trying to get competitions like the Seniors Games to come to Vernon,” Macnabb says. “The facility itself is going to be a huge asset to the community.”
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Running track over budget
by Kevin Rothwell CASTANET - Mar 2, 2015 / 6:00 pm
Sunday, March 01, 2015
New track running well over budget
by Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star posted Mar 1, 2015 at 1:00 AM
Greater Vernon’s new track is moving ahead despite some significant financial hurdles. The $7.5 million Greater Vernon Athletic Park next to Okanagan College is $790,000 over budget. “I am a taxpayer too and I’m not happy about it but how do you change things once you’re in it?” said director Bob Fleming, construction committee chairperson. “You have to carry on and manage it the best you can.” Costs started to skyrocket for the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee when clay in the northwest corner of the property was discovered. It had to be removed and the hole filled. “We did 10 (soil) test pits on the site and that was the one spot we didn’t check,” said Keith Pinkoski, parks planner. Expenses also escalated because the cost of construction materials across the province climbed and there was a lack of sub-trades as workers headed to northern Alberta’s oil sector. “We were at the mercy of the market,” said Pinkoski. Reserves will cover the increased costs for the removal of the clay and additional building costs. Taxes are being used to acquire a turf maintenance machine, rolling covers, soccer goals, players and coaches benches and hurdles. Revenue sources for other various items are being sought through sponsorships and donations. “We need to make a concerted effort to go back to the user groups to see what we can get out of them,” said director Mike Macnabb. Some potential amenities have been deferred to keep costs down, such as showers in the athletes’ change rooms. “In other communities, they don’t exist like Nanaimo,” said director Jim Garlick, adding that if athletes do need showers, there are facilities in the officials’ rooms. It’s expected the athletic park will open by the end of June, but installation of the bleachers won’t occur until June 15 because the installation company is busy with the Pan-Am Games in Toronto. “I told them Greater Vernon is more important than the Pan-Am Games,” said Pinkoski.
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Don Quixote Note
It appears that the operating deficit as held out in the referendum will also be increased from $51,000 originally projected to (an after expected revenue reduction of $40,000 ) be $110,000 estimated deficit in 2016
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107.5 KISSFM POLL: Results FINAL
Greater Vernon’s new track is moving ahead despite some significant financial hurdles. The $7.5 million Greater Vernon Athletic Park next to Okanagan College is $790,000 over budget. “I am a taxpayer too and I’m not happy about it but how do you change things once you’re in it?” said director Bob Fleming, construction committee chairperson. “You have to carry on and manage it the best you can.” Costs started to skyrocket for the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee when clay in the northwest corner of the property was discovered. It had to be removed and the hole filled. “We did 10 (soil) test pits on the site and that was the one spot we didn’t check,” said Keith Pinkoski, parks planner. Expenses also escalated because the cost of construction materials across the province climbed and there was a lack of sub-trades as workers headed to northern Alberta’s oil sector. “We were at the mercy of the market,” said Pinkoski. Reserves will cover the increased costs for the removal of the clay and additional building costs. Taxes are being used to acquire a turf maintenance machine, rolling covers, soccer goals, players and coaches benches and hurdles. Revenue sources for other various items are being sought through sponsorships and donations. “We need to make a concerted effort to go back to the user groups to see what we can get out of them,” said director Mike Macnabb. Some potential amenities have been deferred to keep costs down, such as showers in the athletes’ change rooms. “In other communities, they don’t exist like Nanaimo,” said director Jim Garlick, adding that if athletes do need showers, there are facilities in the officials’ rooms. It’s expected the athletic park will open by the end of June, but installation of the bleachers won’t occur until June 15 because the installation company is busy with the Pan-Am Games in Toronto. “I told them Greater Vernon is more important than the Pan-Am Games,” said Pinkoski.
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| Projected operating deficit at Referendum Time $51,000 |
 |
| Projected 2016 Operating Deficit from 2015 Budget $110,000 After $40,000 in revenue. |
Don Quixote Note
It appears that the operating deficit as held out in the referendum will also be increased from $51,000 originally projected to (an after expected revenue reduction of $40,000 ) be $110,000 estimated deficit in 2016
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107.5 KISSFM POLL: Results FINAL
 Are you surprised or concerned the new sports field at Okanagan College is so far over budget ? | ||
|---|---|---|
| None of the above, knew it'd be over | ||
| 33- | 68.8% | |
| yes | ||
| 9- | 18.8% | |
| no | ||
| 6- | 12.5% | |
| Number of Voters | : 48 |
Gallery draws criticism
by Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star posted Mar 1, 2015 at 1:00 AM
A cultural group is being told to do more to help its bottom line. The Greater Vernon Advisory Committee will provide the Vernon Art Gallery with a $179,401 operating grant in 2015, one per cent more than $177,625 last year. The gallery had sought a 3.5 per cent hike or $6,375 to create a new part-time staff position. “Their request is a little too rich,” said director Mike Macnabb. Macnabb also used Thursday’s GVAC meeting to insist VPAG start charging an admission fee instead of hoping people leave a donation when visiting the gallery. “At $2 a pop, they could bring in $14,000 (based on 7,185 visitations),” he said. “They are not doing anything to reduce the cost (to GVAC).” Director Bob Fleming defended the cost of living hike of one per cent by saying VPAG’s grant has risen 71 per cent in seven years. “They’ve been gaining,” he said. VPAG officials state recent grant increases brought the operational budget to a sustainable level recommended by a GVAC consultant. “This year’s 3.5 per cent request was to implement an additional part-time position which would enable VPAG to have the capacity to focus more on fund development options,” said Dauna Kennedy Grant, executive director. “Charging a fee in our current location is a short-sighted solution. A new facility and location will give us the flexibility to look at alternate admission formulas, but until that goal is realized, GVAC must try and understand more clearly some of the challenges we face in operating out of our current space in the parkade.” GVAC is providing a one per cent operating grant increase ($187,940) to the Greater Vernon Museum, but directors also decided to throw in an additional $4,000. “I want to give them a bit of support for their programs. They are strapped,” said director Catherine Lord. The museum had sought a total operating grant hike of $194,729 — $4,652 for a 2.5 per cent inflation increase and $4,000 for increased hours for part-time staff and a wage increase. GVAC’s proposed 2015 budget calls for total expenditures of $6.48 million, down $23,484 from 2-14. This includes Kal Tire Place, the Performing Arts Centre, grants and recreation and culture. “The budget was well done,” said vice-chairperson Jim Garlick, adding the reduced expenses are a result of restructuring the function among the jurisdictions. “We’ve scaled it down somewhat and we’re dealing with local issues at the council tables now.”
A cultural group is being told to do more to help its bottom line. The Greater Vernon Advisory Committee will provide the Vernon Art Gallery with a $179,401 operating grant in 2015, one per cent more than $177,625 last year. The gallery had sought a 3.5 per cent hike or $6,375 to create a new part-time staff position. “Their request is a little too rich,” said director Mike Macnabb. Macnabb also used Thursday’s GVAC meeting to insist VPAG start charging an admission fee instead of hoping people leave a donation when visiting the gallery. “At $2 a pop, they could bring in $14,000 (based on 7,185 visitations),” he said. “They are not doing anything to reduce the cost (to GVAC).” Director Bob Fleming defended the cost of living hike of one per cent by saying VPAG’s grant has risen 71 per cent in seven years. “They’ve been gaining,” he said. VPAG officials state recent grant increases brought the operational budget to a sustainable level recommended by a GVAC consultant. “This year’s 3.5 per cent request was to implement an additional part-time position which would enable VPAG to have the capacity to focus more on fund development options,” said Dauna Kennedy Grant, executive director. “Charging a fee in our current location is a short-sighted solution. A new facility and location will give us the flexibility to look at alternate admission formulas, but until that goal is realized, GVAC must try and understand more clearly some of the challenges we face in operating out of our current space in the parkade.” GVAC is providing a one per cent operating grant increase ($187,940) to the Greater Vernon Museum, but directors also decided to throw in an additional $4,000. “I want to give them a bit of support for their programs. They are strapped,” said director Catherine Lord. The museum had sought a total operating grant hike of $194,729 — $4,652 for a 2.5 per cent inflation increase and $4,000 for increased hours for part-time staff and a wage increase. GVAC’s proposed 2015 budget calls for total expenditures of $6.48 million, down $23,484 from 2-14. This includes Kal Tire Place, the Performing Arts Centre, grants and recreation and culture. “The budget was well done,” said vice-chairperson Jim Garlick, adding the reduced expenses are a result of restructuring the function among the jurisdictions. “We’ve scaled it down somewhat and we’re dealing with local issues at the council tables now.”
Friday, February 20, 2015
Film commission seeks cash
by Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star posted Feb 20, 2015 at 1:00 AM
The North Okanagan’s starring role in films could dim without an infusion of cash. That was the warning sent to the Regional District of North Okanagan board by Jon Summerland, with the Okanagan Film Commission, Wednesday. “We can’t go on with the budget we have,” he said. “To carry on and sell (the region), I need a little more money.” The OFC received $24,000 from RDNO last year and it’s seeking $35,000 for 2015. Summerland says his resources as a one-man office are stretched and scouting locations is becoming more demanding and expensive. “It costs money to bring people in to scout the area. I have to wine and dine these people,” he said, adding that one of the selling points for the North Okanagan is high-end resorts for cast and crew. “I high-roll them and spend the money, but it’s working.” In 2014, 20 TV and movie productions took place in the entire Okanagan, including A Mother’s Day Off in Vernon and Go With Me featuring Anthony Hopkins in Enderby, Vernon and Lumby. The total economic impact from the 20 productions was $17.5 million, while the film commission’s budget is $180,000. It’s anticipated a number of other films could visit the region in 2015, including the North Okanagan. Among them is Enderby Entertainment, which is responsible for Go With Me. “It will be star-studded as well,” said Summerland, adding that the Okanagan is gaining a reputation as being film-friendly. “In the last three days, I have had three scripts come across my desk.” Besides production companies spending money at local hotels, restaurants and with suppliers, they hire local crew and there is a long-term impact. “You’ve had George Clooney (Tomorrowland) and Anthony Hopkins here and you can sell that,” said Summerland of tourists visiting film locations. Summerland also envisions Tomorrowland leading to a new attraction at Disneyland. “There could possibly be jetpack rides in Tomorrowland (theme area) with a backdrop that looks like the Enderby Cliffs.” RDNO will consider the funding request as part of its 2015 budget process. “This is a fantastic return on investment,” said director Brian Quiring. “They have shown how to add economic development with little funding.” Currently, the only RDNO communities funding the Okanagan Film Commission are Armstrong, Coldstream and Vernon. Along with RDNO, the Central Okanagan and Okanagan-Similkameen regional districts are also being asked for increased funding.
The North Okanagan’s starring role in films could dim without an infusion of cash. That was the warning sent to the Regional District of North Okanagan board by Jon Summerland, with the Okanagan Film Commission, Wednesday. “We can’t go on with the budget we have,” he said. “To carry on and sell (the region), I need a little more money.” The OFC received $24,000 from RDNO last year and it’s seeking $35,000 for 2015. Summerland says his resources as a one-man office are stretched and scouting locations is becoming more demanding and expensive. “It costs money to bring people in to scout the area. I have to wine and dine these people,” he said, adding that one of the selling points for the North Okanagan is high-end resorts for cast and crew. “I high-roll them and spend the money, but it’s working.” In 2014, 20 TV and movie productions took place in the entire Okanagan, including A Mother’s Day Off in Vernon and Go With Me featuring Anthony Hopkins in Enderby, Vernon and Lumby. The total economic impact from the 20 productions was $17.5 million, while the film commission’s budget is $180,000. It’s anticipated a number of other films could visit the region in 2015, including the North Okanagan. Among them is Enderby Entertainment, which is responsible for Go With Me. “It will be star-studded as well,” said Summerland, adding that the Okanagan is gaining a reputation as being film-friendly. “In the last three days, I have had three scripts come across my desk.” Besides production companies spending money at local hotels, restaurants and with suppliers, they hire local crew and there is a long-term impact. “You’ve had George Clooney (Tomorrowland) and Anthony Hopkins here and you can sell that,” said Summerland of tourists visiting film locations. Summerland also envisions Tomorrowland leading to a new attraction at Disneyland. “There could possibly be jetpack rides in Tomorrowland (theme area) with a backdrop that looks like the Enderby Cliffs.” RDNO will consider the funding request as part of its 2015 budget process. “This is a fantastic return on investment,” said director Brian Quiring. “They have shown how to add economic development with little funding.” Currently, the only RDNO communities funding the Okanagan Film Commission are Armstrong, Coldstream and Vernon. Along with RDNO, the Central Okanagan and Okanagan-Similkameen regional districts are also being asked for increased funding.
Friday, February 06, 2015
Community Name For Sports Field
Written by Peter McIntyre 107.5 KISSFM Friday, 06 February 2015 06:00
Greater Vernon's new sports complex next to Okanagan College will have a name that reflects the community, not a business. The 7.5 million dollar facility will open this spring. Greater Vernon Advisory director Bob Fleming says the final name is still being discussed. "The vast bulk of the money for this project is coming from the taxpayers and that should be reflected in the name, and although we haven't finalized the name, it's going to be Greater Vernon Athletic Park, or something like that," says Fleming. However, components of the facility, like the synthetic turf field, will be offered for naming rights sponsorships, with the committee agreeing to a request for a proposals at Thursday's meeting. GVAC chair Juliette Cunningham says the sponsorship funds will be put back into the facility. "Any capital money that they (sponsor) would bring to the table, they would be asked how they want that spent, and we would use that to enhance the facility." Greater Vernon voters approved borrowing up to $7.5 million for the facility in a referendum in April 2013.
Greater Vernon's new sports complex next to Okanagan College will have a name that reflects the community, not a business. The 7.5 million dollar facility will open this spring. Greater Vernon Advisory director Bob Fleming says the final name is still being discussed. "The vast bulk of the money for this project is coming from the taxpayers and that should be reflected in the name, and although we haven't finalized the name, it's going to be Greater Vernon Athletic Park, or something like that," says Fleming. However, components of the facility, like the synthetic turf field, will be offered for naming rights sponsorships, with the committee agreeing to a request for a proposals at Thursday's meeting. GVAC chair Juliette Cunningham says the sponsorship funds will be put back into the facility. "Any capital money that they (sponsor) would bring to the table, they would be asked how they want that spent, and we would use that to enhance the facility." Greater Vernon voters approved borrowing up to $7.5 million for the facility in a referendum in April 2013.
GVAC siphons water rate hike in half
by Roger Knox - Vernon Morning Star posted Feb 6, 2015 at 1:00 AM
A proposed four per cent hike in rates for the Greater Vernon Water operating and capital budget has dribbled down to two per cent. Greater Vernon Advisory Committee directors will make the recommendation on the hike and an overall proposed 2015 water utility operating budget of slightly more than $15 million to Regional District of North Okanagan directors for their consideration. The overall capital budget is just over $5.5 million. “The GVW’s long-term capital program requires significant investment for infrastructure renewal to replace aging infrastructure, expand the system to provide additional capacity and to improve water quality in meeting regulator standards,” wrote Stephen Banmen, RDNO’s director of finance, in a report to GVAC directors proposing a four per cent hike. “While some uncertainty exists in terms of the Water Master Plan, it is known that there are significant investments required in the water system.” Banmen said in his report “there is sufficient revenue at existing rates to meet the current operating needs of the system.” He also had a couple of alternative rate proposals for directors to consider in his report: a 10 per cent hike which would provide an additional $1.1 million for future capital expenditures, in addition to the $736,000 currently proposed to be transferred to reserves. The other alternative was a two per cent hike which would provide a minimal increase to reserves and provide some budget flexibility in terms of relocating resources. City of Vernon director Bob Spiers and electoral area C director Mike Macnabb opposed the two per cent hike though for completely different reasons. Spiers called for a zero per cent increase, but had no seconder to his motion amendment, while Macnabb thought a four per cent raise was fine. “The increase we’re looking at is $940,000,” said Spiers. “Included in that is transfers to reserves of $736,000. The reserves now total $14 or $15 million. Those reserves are used in case of emergency, to flatten out rates of increase caused by emergencies, and replacing pipes. There’s enough money in there.” Said Macnabb: “A status quo increase of two per cent essentially won’t get us anywhere. We have an incredibly large system. It has deficiencies in the infrastructure. The idea of adding some money to the reserves is to look after those potential problems...All the status quo does is put us into a holding pattern.” Coldstream Mayor Jim Garlick and Coldstream director Doug Dirk called for the two per cent increase. “We do have an infrastructure – I won’t call it a problem – but we have to deal with it,” said Garlick. “I don’t want to make everybody feel good saying there’s a zero rate increase and then feel good for a year. “A few years down the road they’re not going to feel very good when we have water-flooded art galleries and stores. It’s important for us to move forward.” Coldstream director Gyula Kiss was absent from the meeting but said via e-mail he would vote against the budget. Among possible capital projects in the 2015 budget are a water main replacement along Highway 6 for $660,000, a $490,000 water main upgrade along Vernon’s Pleasant Valley Road and a $250,000 meter replacement pilot program.
Thursday, February 05, 2015
Two Percent Water Rate Hike
Written by Peter McIntyre 107.5 KISSFM Thursday, 05 February 2015 12:10
Local politicians are backing plans for a 2 percent increase to water rates in Greater Vernon this year. The Greater Vernon Advisory Committee passed that motion this morning as part of a 15 million dollar operating budget for the water utility. The motion still has to be approved by the Regional District of North Okanagan board. Opposition came from director Bob Spiers who argued for a zero percent increase, and from BX Silver Star's Mike Macnabb who wanted 4 percent to allow more funds to go into reserves. "We never know when there will be a burst pipe," said Macnabb. "(Four percent) is a very good compromise. It protects us in case of a major main break." Spiers says a four percent hike, which staff were recommending, would have raised an extra $940,000, $736,000 of which would have gone to reserves. "The reserves now have 14 to 15 million dollars. There's enough money in there. Let's step back this year and look at the whole situation," says Spiers. Director Doug Dirk lead the motion for the 2 percent hike. "Two percent is the status quo. We don't want to defer increases for the future. Water is not going to get any cheaper," said Dirk, a Coldstream councillor. Director Gyula Kiss wasn't at the meeting, but told staff he was voting against the budget, and wants a moratorium on budget items that were part of the failed November referendum until the future of the master water plan is discussed. Several members of the group Citizens for Change attended the meeting, including chair Terry Mooney. "We were hoping for a special meeting with the GVAC. That didn't happen today. We we're hoping for a moratorium on costing. That didn't happen today, but there is movement in the direction we had hoped for and that is that the public is now more aware of the mechanics of how this plan has been put together and what options we may have for the future," Mooney told the media.
Local politicians are backing plans for a 2 percent increase to water rates in Greater Vernon this year. The Greater Vernon Advisory Committee passed that motion this morning as part of a 15 million dollar operating budget for the water utility. The motion still has to be approved by the Regional District of North Okanagan board. Opposition came from director Bob Spiers who argued for a zero percent increase, and from BX Silver Star's Mike Macnabb who wanted 4 percent to allow more funds to go into reserves. "We never know when there will be a burst pipe," said Macnabb. "(Four percent) is a very good compromise. It protects us in case of a major main break." Spiers says a four percent hike, which staff were recommending, would have raised an extra $940,000, $736,000 of which would have gone to reserves. "The reserves now have 14 to 15 million dollars. There's enough money in there. Let's step back this year and look at the whole situation," says Spiers. Director Doug Dirk lead the motion for the 2 percent hike. "Two percent is the status quo. We don't want to defer increases for the future. Water is not going to get any cheaper," said Dirk, a Coldstream councillor. Director Gyula Kiss wasn't at the meeting, but told staff he was voting against the budget, and wants a moratorium on budget items that were part of the failed November referendum until the future of the master water plan is discussed. Several members of the group Citizens for Change attended the meeting, including chair Terry Mooney. "We were hoping for a special meeting with the GVAC. That didn't happen today. We we're hoping for a moratorium on costing. That didn't happen today, but there is movement in the direction we had hoped for and that is that the public is now more aware of the mechanics of how this plan has been put together and what options we may have for the future," Mooney told the media.
Sunday, February 01, 2015
Greater Vernon water costs could climb
by Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star posted Jan 30, 2015 at 1:00 AM
It may cost more to turn on the taps. On Thursday, staff presented the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee with a proposed 2015 water utility budget that calls for a four per cent hike in rates. “No one likes to see an increase but it’s reasonable,” said Juliette Cunningham, chairperson. In a report, staff says the water utility’s long-term capital program must focus on replacing aging infrastructure, expanding to provide additional capacity and improving water quality to meet provincial regulations. “A modest rate increase of about twice the rate of inflation is proposed,” said Stephen Banmen, general manager of finance for the Regional District of North Okanagan. “The rate increase provides for an improved capital program funded from current revenue and provides for reserves to be set aside for years when the capital funding needs are greater.” If the rate hike goes ahead, the current revenue funding of the 2015 capital program would increase from $4,5 million to $4.7 million. Among the possible projects this year are a water main replacement on Highway 6 for $66,000, a low-level outlet repair at Aberdeen Lake for $400,000, water main upgrades on Pleasant Valley Road for $490,000, a meter replacement pilot program for $250,000 and a water main on Venables Drive for $600,000. The rate increase would also provide additional funds for future capital projects through a $736,000 increase in transfers to reserves. “We should be building up reserves so we can replace assets when they need to be replaced,” said Banmen. Director Bob Spiers doesn’t support pumping money into reserves for long-term capital projects because he believes the financial onus is placed on existing customers and not future users. “The ones benefitting should pay,” he said. The overall proposed 2015 water utility budget is $15.07 million while it was $14.1 million in 2014. A decision on 2015 water rates may occur when GVAC directors get together Feb. 5.
“It will be an interesting discussion at the meeting,” said Cunningham.
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Morning Star Pool:Question of the Day: Do you support a four per cent increase in Greater Vernon water rates in 2015?
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107.5 KISSFM Poll: Results FINAL:
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| MorningStar Poll |
“It will be an interesting discussion at the meeting,” said Cunningham.
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Morning Star Pool:Question of the Day: Do you support a four per cent increase in Greater Vernon water rates in 2015?
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107.5 KISSFM Poll: Results FINAL:
| Do you think a 4% increase in Greater Vernon's water rates is reasonable? | ||
|---|---|---|
| no, too much | ||
| 62- | 81.6% | |
| yes | ||
| 11- | 14.5% | |
| no, not enough | ||
| 3- | 3.9% | |
| Number of Voters | : 76 |
Saturday, January 31, 2015
Water Budget Tops $20 Million
Written by Peter McIntyre 107.5 KISSFM Thursday, 29 January 2015 18:00
This year's Greater Vernon Water budget calls for 15 million dollars in operating spending, and 5.5 million dollars for capital projects. Regional District of North Okanagan Finance manager, Stephen Banmen, says one area of good news is water treatment costs are going down $410,000. "Within the functional area of water treatment, the largest savings are related to water treatment chemicals ($134,000), utilities ($129,000) and operations and maintenance ($72,000)," says Banmen. Among the 26 capital projects planned for this year is $660,000 to replace a cast iron water main at 9555 Highway 6 in Coldstream, $600,000 to upgrade a water main on Venebles Way between Aberdeen and Middleton in Coldstream, and $490,000 for Pleasant Valley Road, 41st Ave to 20th Street in Vernon. Greater Vernon Advisory Committee director Gyula Kiss questioned staff why a $400 a year base fee is charged for water, calling it "a tax that doesn't seem to have any bearing on anything." Finance manager, Stephen Banmen, says that fee helps cover the fixed costs of running the utility. In a presentation to the board, Utility Manager Zee Marcolin said 53-thousand residents use the system, and 200 samples of the water are taking each month to ensure the quality.
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http://www.rdno.ca/agendas/150129_GVAC_AGN_SPEC_Amended.pdf (Full report)
This year's Greater Vernon Water budget calls for 15 million dollars in operating spending, and 5.5 million dollars for capital projects. Regional District of North Okanagan Finance manager, Stephen Banmen, says one area of good news is water treatment costs are going down $410,000. "Within the functional area of water treatment, the largest savings are related to water treatment chemicals ($134,000), utilities ($129,000) and operations and maintenance ($72,000)," says Banmen. Among the 26 capital projects planned for this year is $660,000 to replace a cast iron water main at 9555 Highway 6 in Coldstream, $600,000 to upgrade a water main on Venebles Way between Aberdeen and Middleton in Coldstream, and $490,000 for Pleasant Valley Road, 41st Ave to 20th Street in Vernon. Greater Vernon Advisory Committee director Gyula Kiss questioned staff why a $400 a year base fee is charged for water, calling it "a tax that doesn't seem to have any bearing on anything." Finance manager, Stephen Banmen, says that fee helps cover the fixed costs of running the utility. In a presentation to the board, Utility Manager Zee Marcolin said 53-thousand residents use the system, and 200 samples of the water are taking each month to ensure the quality.
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http://www.rdno.ca/agendas/150129_GVAC_AGN_SPEC_Amended.pdf (Full report)
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