Showing posts with label DCC's. Show all posts
Showing posts with label DCC's. Show all posts
Monday, September 18, 2017
Hurlburt needs work
By Kate Bouey -CASTANET Sep 18, 2017 / 5:00 am
City of Vernon staff say Hurlburt Park needs a lot of work to improve accessibility, safety and usability. A fixture on Okanagan Lake for more than eight decades, the park was purchased by the North Okanagan Regional District two years ago for $2.3 million. A report to city council Monday states $477,549 is needed for traffic calming, parking spaces and a permanent toilet as well as a danger tree assessment and a safety inspection. Council is being urged to approach the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee for funding.The report says most vehicles travel at 70 kph along the road to the old camp and calls for traffic calming in order to reduce speed. “The costs to improve the access and provide paved parking is estimated to be $359,549,” says Kim Flick, community infrastructure and development manager. “Given the nature of this road it is recommended that pilot vertical measures be installed either side of the park access. These would be flat top road humps which are suitable for emergency vehicles, larger vehicles and trailers.” In terms of dangerous trees, she says, “There are also trees on the property and adjacent Crown land that have been damaged by beavers that may need to be limbed and protected.” Flick says fencing along Eastside Road need to be repaired, amphitheatre steps and seating should be reconstructed or removed and old lighting should go
Saturday, July 22, 2017
DCC Amending Bylaws on GVAC Agenda Thursday Oct. 6, 2016
http://www.rdno.ca/bylaws/BL_2279_C.pdf
http://www.rdno.ca/bylaws/BL_1983_C.pdf
In October of 2016 amendments to the DCC bylaw for Parks and Water were approved and sent to the Provinces Inspector for approval.
Finally at the last RDNO meeting of July 19 they were unanimously approved and are now in effect.
(a) Pursuant to section 563(1 )(a) of the Local Government Act, Development Cost Charges for not-for-profit rental housing as defined in this bylaw are waived in their entirety.
(b) No Development Cost Charges shall be required to be paid where the building permit authorizes the construction, alteration or extension of a building or part of a building that will, after the construction, alteration or extension:
(i) Contain fewer than two (2) residential dwelling units; and
(ii) Be put to no use other than the residential use in those dwelling
units.
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What is the effect of these changes:
"Not-for-profit rental housing" means low income housing that is owned by a nonprofit corporation incorporated under the Society Act or a government organization and occupied or intended to be occupied under tenancy agreements as defined in the Residential Tenancy Act,
For Non-Profits DCC's will be waived.
1 unit water DCC = 1857
1 unit Parks DCC = 3644
Total = $5501 per unit.
http://www.rdno.ca/bylaws/BL_1983_C.pdf
In October of 2016 amendments to the DCC bylaw for Parks and Water were approved and sent to the Provinces Inspector for approval.
Finally at the last RDNO meeting of July 19 they were unanimously approved and are now in effect.
(a) Pursuant to section 563(1 )(a) of the Local Government Act, Development Cost Charges for not-for-profit rental housing as defined in this bylaw are waived in their entirety.
(b) No Development Cost Charges shall be required to be paid where the building permit authorizes the construction, alteration or extension of a building or part of a building that will, after the construction, alteration or extension:
(i) Contain fewer than two (2) residential dwelling units; and
(ii) Be put to no use other than the residential use in those dwelling
units.
------------------
What is the effect of these changes:
"Not-for-profit rental housing" means low income housing that is owned by a nonprofit corporation incorporated under the Society Act or a government organization and occupied or intended to be occupied under tenancy agreements as defined in the Residential Tenancy Act,
For Non-Profits DCC's will be waived.
1 unit water DCC = 1857
1 unit Parks DCC = 3644
Total = $5501 per unit.
Tuesday, March 08, 2016
Building costs to rise
Wayne Moore - CASTANET Mar 8, 2016 / 5:44 am
It could soon cost more for developers to build new residential or commercial properties in Kelowna. That's because of an expected rise in development cost charges proposed by the city. DCCs are fees charges to developers to help finance major capital work like public roads, water, sanitary sewer, drainage and parkland. "The DCC bylaw sets out the charges imposed on developers to offset some of these infrastructure costs," said infrastructure planning manager Joel Shaw. Shaw said the last DCC amendment was done in 2011 in conjunction with the 2030 Official Community Plan review. "In that time, construction and land costs have risen, so it requires an update to our development cost charges bylaw." When the bylaw was updated in 2011, Shaw said there was a desire to lower DCCs to help stimulate growth as the city began to come out of a time of slow growth. "A number of projects were pulled out of the program. The overall cost was reduced by about $209 million." While the developers share was reduced by that amount, Shaw said the city share increased about $13 million. Due to increased construction and land acquisition costs, Shaw said the developer share of DCCs has increased from $468 million to $518 million, while the city share, the portion funded by either taxation or utility, has increased from $209 million to $224 million. "Stemming from all these construction and land cost increases, DCCs have increased for most service areas for most areas of the city. "When we combine all the services, we are looking at a rate increase of about 14 per cent for the South Mission down to about 4.8 per cent for north of the inner city. The inner city portion has increased around 9.3 per cent."
Coun. Mohini Singh said she has heard from the Okanagan chapter of the Urban Development Institute, which said increased charges could impact growth within the housing industry. "We have heard UDI's concerns," said Shaw. "The cost update reflects true market conditions so, in order for the program to be sustainable, we need to have enough money to pay for the infrastructure to service growth. With that said, there are concerns in Alberta and abroad about market conditions, and we've committed to doing another DCC cost update should conditions change appreciably in the short term." He said Kelowna does have comparable DCC rates to cities its size. Coun. Luke Stack suggested the city use the Consumer Price Index to adjust the DCC rate being paid by developers. "I think what the development community needs is numbers they can count on and rely on in their budgeting," said Stack. "If we knew CPI was going up and we followed that same kind of trend, I think we could minimize the impact. The numbers would still be there and you would still have to pay it, but at least it would be something you could plan for and absorb in smaller bites." Shaw did say staff would likely review the rate every two years as opposed to the five years it has been since the last review. He also said the new rates would come into effect once the bylaw is given final approval. "But, if you have a building permit or subdivision application in-stream, you have a one-year protection. You would pay the lower rate from one year of the bylaw adoption."
The proposed changes will go to an open house at the end of the month. At that point, it will come back to council for second and third reading and then be sent to the province for approval, likely in April. Pending that approval, Shaw said he will return to council for adoption of the bylaw, likely in late April or early May.
It could soon cost more for developers to build new residential or commercial properties in Kelowna. That's because of an expected rise in development cost charges proposed by the city. DCCs are fees charges to developers to help finance major capital work like public roads, water, sanitary sewer, drainage and parkland. "The DCC bylaw sets out the charges imposed on developers to offset some of these infrastructure costs," said infrastructure planning manager Joel Shaw. Shaw said the last DCC amendment was done in 2011 in conjunction with the 2030 Official Community Plan review. "In that time, construction and land costs have risen, so it requires an update to our development cost charges bylaw." When the bylaw was updated in 2011, Shaw said there was a desire to lower DCCs to help stimulate growth as the city began to come out of a time of slow growth. "A number of projects were pulled out of the program. The overall cost was reduced by about $209 million." While the developers share was reduced by that amount, Shaw said the city share increased about $13 million. Due to increased construction and land acquisition costs, Shaw said the developer share of DCCs has increased from $468 million to $518 million, while the city share, the portion funded by either taxation or utility, has increased from $209 million to $224 million. "Stemming from all these construction and land cost increases, DCCs have increased for most service areas for most areas of the city. "When we combine all the services, we are looking at a rate increase of about 14 per cent for the South Mission down to about 4.8 per cent for north of the inner city. The inner city portion has increased around 9.3 per cent."
Coun. Mohini Singh said she has heard from the Okanagan chapter of the Urban Development Institute, which said increased charges could impact growth within the housing industry. "We have heard UDI's concerns," said Shaw. "The cost update reflects true market conditions so, in order for the program to be sustainable, we need to have enough money to pay for the infrastructure to service growth. With that said, there are concerns in Alberta and abroad about market conditions, and we've committed to doing another DCC cost update should conditions change appreciably in the short term." He said Kelowna does have comparable DCC rates to cities its size. Coun. Luke Stack suggested the city use the Consumer Price Index to adjust the DCC rate being paid by developers. "I think what the development community needs is numbers they can count on and rely on in their budgeting," said Stack. "If we knew CPI was going up and we followed that same kind of trend, I think we could minimize the impact. The numbers would still be there and you would still have to pay it, but at least it would be something you could plan for and absorb in smaller bites." Shaw did say staff would likely review the rate every two years as opposed to the five years it has been since the last review. He also said the new rates would come into effect once the bylaw is given final approval. "But, if you have a building permit or subdivision application in-stream, you have a one-year protection. You would pay the lower rate from one year of the bylaw adoption."
The proposed changes will go to an open house at the end of the month. At that point, it will come back to council for second and third reading and then be sent to the province for approval, likely in April. Pending that approval, Shaw said he will return to council for adoption of the bylaw, likely in late April or early May.
Thursday, January 21, 2016
Regional district creates new park along Swan Lake
by Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star posted Jan 20, 2016 at 8:00 PM
Another portion of Greater Vernon's natural environment has been preserved. The Regional District of North Okanagan has purchased 13.43 acres along Swan Lake, on the north end of Crane Road off of Meadowlark Road. "It will be a natural, passive park," said Tannis Nelson, community development co-ordinator. It's not known when public access will occur, but development of the park could start this year, including a trail between Crane and Lochdale roads. "It's the only piece of publicly owned land with actual lake access," said Bob Fleming, BX-Swan Lake director, adding that an ultimate goal is to have a small dock for canoeists. "I hope there will be interpretive information on the site or a viewing platform for people to see the wildlife." The property, which was the site of the CJIB radio tower, has been farmed in the past. "There's a lot of weeds on the property so we will try to get it to as natural a state as possible," said Fleming. The regional district paid $615,000 for the site.
Another portion of Greater Vernon's natural environment has been preserved. The Regional District of North Okanagan has purchased 13.43 acres along Swan Lake, on the north end of Crane Road off of Meadowlark Road. "It will be a natural, passive park," said Tannis Nelson, community development co-ordinator. It's not known when public access will occur, but development of the park could start this year, including a trail between Crane and Lochdale roads. "It's the only piece of publicly owned land with actual lake access," said Bob Fleming, BX-Swan Lake director, adding that an ultimate goal is to have a small dock for canoeists. "I hope there will be interpretive information on the site or a viewing platform for people to see the wildlife." The property, which was the site of the CJIB radio tower, has been farmed in the past. "There's a lot of weeds on the property so we will try to get it to as natural a state as possible," said Fleming. The regional district paid $615,000 for the site.
Thursday, November 19, 2015
Affordable housing coming
Darren Handschuh - CASTANET Nov 19, 2015 / 3:21 pm
Some much-needed affordable housing will soon be available in Vernon. Renovations are underway at the former Journey Inn Motel on 28th Avenue, according to Barb Levesque, executive director of the John Howard Society, and more people will be moving in over the next few months. The motel was renamed Blair Apartments after Blair Peden, who has served on the JHS board locally for some 40 years. There are currently eight tenants living in the 39-unit complex, but as the renovations are done more people move in. Lavesque said renos include new carpet, paint, some plumbing and electrical work and a new rail which has to be installed on the upper level to bring the building up to code. B.C. Housing owns the building and is taking care of the renovations, while JHS board finds the tenants. Levesque said people have to fill out an application to live in the downtown complex and they must meet certain criteria. “We have over 100 applications already,” said Levesque. “We are thrilled to have the property available. For some people, this will be their forever home. This is going to have a big impact.” Levesque expects the bachelor units will rent for around $450 a month and that will include the cost for everything from cable to utilities to laundry. “The building is in great shape. It is a clean, affordable place for people to live,” said Levesque. The complex will have a communal feel to it as well. For liability reasons, the pool is being removed and a community garden put in its place. “That will be a green space for people,” said Levesque. Because the units do not have kitchen facilities, the manager's suite is being converted into a communal kitchen that will serve the entire building. The kitchen will also be a gathering place for tenants where they can share dinner, celebrate seasonal events and hold other activities. The individual units will have a 3/4 fridge and microwave.
Tuesday, October 20, 2015
Renovations Starting on Blair Apartments
Posted on 10/20/2015 by Ron Manz 107.5 KISSFM
It's been nearly two months since the Province announced it had bought the Journey Inn in Vernon and was converting it to an affordable housing complex. Renovations being done by BC Housing are only starting to take place this week on the 39 suite facility. Ten tenants maximum will be allowed to live there during renovations according to Barb Levesque with the John Howard Society that will operate the complex. "Some of them moved out of places they couldn't afford. I think a couple of them may be new to Vernon. Most of them are from Vernon and were in places they couldn't afford and needed affordable housing." Levesque says everyone will have to qualify financially and they also must pass an interview process to find out if they are socially acceptible too. "We want people to feel that this is a real family apartment building and a home, so we are looking for those kinds of people, and its really an interview that takes place and a judgement call on the part of the manager." Renovations are expected to take up to six months to complete. "BC Housing is expecting it to take about six months but it could take longer, we really don't know. Things like plumbing and electrical, we want to make sure that we don't have to do ongoing renovations, that we only do them once and that it's done." The facility has also been renamed the Blair Apartments, after Blair Peden a retired probation officer who spent 35 years as a board member and former chair. "He's a pretty humble guy and I think at first he was a little bit reluctant to have it named after him, but I think its important and all non-profits realize how important it is to recognize the committment of these long time volunteers.
It's been nearly two months since the Province announced it had bought the Journey Inn in Vernon and was converting it to an affordable housing complex. Renovations being done by BC Housing are only starting to take place this week on the 39 suite facility. Ten tenants maximum will be allowed to live there during renovations according to Barb Levesque with the John Howard Society that will operate the complex. "Some of them moved out of places they couldn't afford. I think a couple of them may be new to Vernon. Most of them are from Vernon and were in places they couldn't afford and needed affordable housing." Levesque says everyone will have to qualify financially and they also must pass an interview process to find out if they are socially acceptible too. "We want people to feel that this is a real family apartment building and a home, so we are looking for those kinds of people, and its really an interview that takes place and a judgement call on the part of the manager." Renovations are expected to take up to six months to complete. "BC Housing is expecting it to take about six months but it could take longer, we really don't know. Things like plumbing and electrical, we want to make sure that we don't have to do ongoing renovations, that we only do them once and that it's done." The facility has also been renamed the Blair Apartments, after Blair Peden a retired probation officer who spent 35 years as a board member and former chair. "He's a pretty humble guy and I think at first he was a little bit reluctant to have it named after him, but I think its important and all non-profits realize how important it is to recognize the committment of these long time volunteers.
Sunday, July 19, 2015
No additional staff hired
by Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star posted Jul 19, 2015 at 1:00 AM
City of Vernon staff will be shuffling around to accommodate increased workload. Council has decided that existing employees in the planning department can handle expanded activities instead of hiring a temporary planning assistant. “We have eight staff involved in planning. For the next year, they need to reallocate people,” said Coun. Catherine Lord, who was opposed to hiring. “I want to make sure staff pay attention to current development and not long-term development.” The plan had been for the temporary planning assistant to be paid through excess development revenue from 2015 building permits. Coun. Brian Quiring had supported staff’s request for the temporary position. “Development is going gang-busters and we need the help,” he said.
Building gets demolished
A City of Vernon-owned building has a date with a wrecking ball. The New Delhi building at 2905 29th St. and 2828 30th Ave. will be demolished and interim parking will be created at a cost of $50,000. In 2012, the city purchased the property for $1.1 million for an eventual east/west traffic corridor. No timeline has been established for construction of the new road. Fire broke out in the building in December 2014 and the city has accepted an insurance settlement of $126,000.
City of Vernon staff will be shuffling around to accommodate increased workload. Council has decided that existing employees in the planning department can handle expanded activities instead of hiring a temporary planning assistant. “We have eight staff involved in planning. For the next year, they need to reallocate people,” said Coun. Catherine Lord, who was opposed to hiring. “I want to make sure staff pay attention to current development and not long-term development.” The plan had been for the temporary planning assistant to be paid through excess development revenue from 2015 building permits. Coun. Brian Quiring had supported staff’s request for the temporary position. “Development is going gang-busters and we need the help,” he said.
Building gets demolished
A City of Vernon-owned building has a date with a wrecking ball. The New Delhi building at 2905 29th St. and 2828 30th Ave. will be demolished and interim parking will be created at a cost of $50,000. In 2012, the city purchased the property for $1.1 million for an eventual east/west traffic corridor. No timeline has been established for construction of the new road. Fire broke out in the building in December 2014 and the city has accepted an insurance settlement of $126,000.
Tuesday, July 14, 2015
Restaurant Location Becoming a Parking Lot
Posted on 7/14/2015 by Pete McIntyre 107.6 KSSFM
A city-owned building will be torn down and used for more parking in downtown Vernon. Council has given the go ahead to demolish the New Delhi Restaurant building on 30th Avenue, and install interim parking and landscaping. Mayor Akbal Mund says the estimated cost of the project is 50-thousand dollars. "They'll be able to provide more parking spaces for the people downtown. Everybody's always complaining about parking downtown, well here's another 22 spaces." Mund says the city bought the site several years ago to use for a possible extension of 25th Avenue, which he says could still go ahead someday.
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Also See http://vernonblog.blogspot.ca/2012/05/city-of-vernon-buys-downtown-land.html
A city-owned building will be torn down and used for more parking in downtown Vernon. Council has given the go ahead to demolish the New Delhi Restaurant building on 30th Avenue, and install interim parking and landscaping. Mayor Akbal Mund says the estimated cost of the project is 50-thousand dollars. "They'll be able to provide more parking spaces for the people downtown. Everybody's always complaining about parking downtown, well here's another 22 spaces." Mund says the city bought the site several years ago to use for a possible extension of 25th Avenue, which he says could still go ahead someday.
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Also See http://vernonblog.blogspot.ca/2012/05/city-of-vernon-buys-downtown-land.html
Friday, June 26, 2015
Updates to 2014 Annual Report Vernon
http://www.vernon.ca/services/finance/documents/2014_Annual_Report.pdf
The inclusion of Business Revitalization Tax Exemption data for 2014 (page 56)
$ 35,053 (see Report for breakdown)
-------------------------
The addition of disclosure relating to the DCC funds held by the RDNO
Relating to the Parks DCC funds Note 17 (b) (page 122):
'In addition, the Regional District retains control of development cost charges collected under their Parks DCC bylaw. Portions
of the monies collected are held for the benefit of the City of Vernon. The funds are to be disbursed on parks within the City’s
boundaries. Since the monies are held by the Regional District, ultimate control over disbursal is subject to Regional District
board approval. At December 31, 2014, the Parks DCC amount totalled $2,006,599.'
--------------------------
The review and correction of Council Remuneration (page 57) ($3383 decrease in 2014 Remuneration from draft Presentation.)
 |
| Revised and Corrected Presentation in Annual Report |
 |
| Original Presentation in Draft Annual Report |
Friday, May 29, 2015
New Name For Future Road Project
Posted on 5/29/2015 by Pete McIntyre 107.5 KISSFM
A road project that's been talked about for years, is still being backed by Vernon council. The 25th Avenue Extension, which is now called the Highway 6 to 27th Street Connector, would provide a quicker route for motorists, but is still on the back burner. Councillor Brian Quiring says it could go ahead in six to ten years, it's standing in the city's Transportation Plan. "It's to help people get from 25th Avenue get onto 27th Street and head north. I'm still not convinced it's in the right spot, but council ultimately supported the initial concept," Quiring tells Kiss FM. Mayor Akbal Mund says the stockpiling of city owned properties doesn't sit well with residents. "The New Delhi Restaurant was bought for that reason. For that road extension to run through there, you needed that piece of property. Some times you have to invest years in advance to get to where you want to be," Mund tells Kiss FM. Mund says that's a 6 to 7 million dollar project, and the city needs to budget for that, for the project to proceed. "You have to make sure you have the money to do the project." In a declassified motion from in-camera, council also passed a motion opposed to selling any of the properties the city has purchased in that area, to enable the route to be constructed. The motion was carried with Councillor Bob Spiers opposed.
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Don Quixote Note: This is a DCC project where 95% of the cost comes from development cost charges. As you can see from the Road Project listing below this is a $6,607,153 project with 95% to come from DCC charges ($6,276,795.) In May 2012 1.1 million was spent to purchase the New Delhi property. (95% of $1,045,000 came from DCC's.). I opposed the purchase of that property then for a project that was estimated to be a minimum of 10 years down the line. (along with Coun Nicol) as it depleted our road dcc's balance at that time. Our 2014 DCC balance is now $1,622,836.51 (p.58).
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A road project that's been talked about for years, is still being backed by Vernon council. The 25th Avenue Extension, which is now called the Highway 6 to 27th Street Connector, would provide a quicker route for motorists, but is still on the back burner. Councillor Brian Quiring says it could go ahead in six to ten years, it's standing in the city's Transportation Plan. "It's to help people get from 25th Avenue get onto 27th Street and head north. I'm still not convinced it's in the right spot, but council ultimately supported the initial concept," Quiring tells Kiss FM. Mayor Akbal Mund says the stockpiling of city owned properties doesn't sit well with residents. "The New Delhi Restaurant was bought for that reason. For that road extension to run through there, you needed that piece of property. Some times you have to invest years in advance to get to where you want to be," Mund tells Kiss FM. Mund says that's a 6 to 7 million dollar project, and the city needs to budget for that, for the project to proceed. "You have to make sure you have the money to do the project." In a declassified motion from in-camera, council also passed a motion opposed to selling any of the properties the city has purchased in that area, to enable the route to be constructed. The motion was carried with Councillor Bob Spiers opposed.
-----------------
Don Quixote Note: This is a DCC project where 95% of the cost comes from development cost charges. As you can see from the Road Project listing below this is a $6,607,153 project with 95% to come from DCC charges ($6,276,795.) In May 2012 1.1 million was spent to purchase the New Delhi property. (95% of $1,045,000 came from DCC's.). I opposed the purchase of that property then for a project that was estimated to be a minimum of 10 years down the line. (along with Coun Nicol) as it depleted our road dcc's balance at that time. Our 2014 DCC balance is now $1,622,836.51 (p.58).
 |
| http://www.vernon.ca/services/purchasing/pdf/Vernon_DCC_Background_Report-Final.pdf |
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Tuesday, July 15, 2014
Safety Measures Tried On 25th Street
Written by Peter McIntyre 107.5 KISSFM Tuesday, 15 July 2014 04:14
Vernon council has given the green light to traffic safety measures for a residential area. Some residents along 25th Street are concerned about speeding vehicles using their road to go north or south, instead of 27th Street. Councillor Brian Quiring says crosswalks will be added at three key intersections as a first step. "Then we want to look at ways to encourage people to use 27th as the north south connector as opposed to using 25th, and we will revisit it in a year and reevaluate how the crosswalks are working," says Quiring. Quiring says some of the problem is from truckers using 25th to go to and from Home Hardware, and he made a motion to work with the store to encourage the trucks to use 27th. Mayor Rob Sawatzky says it's a good first step. "It's a wise way to go about things. Lots of problems aren't solved in one visit. You start, and you work at them, and get them to where they should be," he says. 63% of the residents in the project area support the traffic management measures.
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Traffic calming measures proceed for Vernon neighbourhood
by Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star posted Jul 15, 2014 at 6:00 AM
Traffic calming is proceeding in a Vernon neighbourhood but not to the extent originally proposed. City council decided Monday to install crosswalks at three sections of 25th Street as a way of slowing down motorists and enhancing pedestrian safety. “It’s a first step to make that community safer,” said Coun. Brian Quiring. However, other measures such as possibly right-in and right-out access at intersections are on hold until at least 2015. “There are other things we want to consider,” said Quiring. “We are doing the right thing by looking at it further.” The city required 66 per cent support from residents in the immediate neighbourhood for the entire traffic management plan but that fell short at 63 per cent. As a result, staff recommended crosswalks at this time and going back to the residents next year to see how effective the crosswalks have been and if more needs to be done to control motorists. Council has also instructed staff to take immediate steps to contact some of the nearby businesses who generate through traffic on 25th Street. “A significant amount of traffic and problem is coming from trucks and contractors (for local businesses),” said Quiring. “We need to look at how to deal with that.”
Vernon council has given the green light to traffic safety measures for a residential area. Some residents along 25th Street are concerned about speeding vehicles using their road to go north or south, instead of 27th Street. Councillor Brian Quiring says crosswalks will be added at three key intersections as a first step. "Then we want to look at ways to encourage people to use 27th as the north south connector as opposed to using 25th, and we will revisit it in a year and reevaluate how the crosswalks are working," says Quiring. Quiring says some of the problem is from truckers using 25th to go to and from Home Hardware, and he made a motion to work with the store to encourage the trucks to use 27th. Mayor Rob Sawatzky says it's a good first step. "It's a wise way to go about things. Lots of problems aren't solved in one visit. You start, and you work at them, and get them to where they should be," he says. 63% of the residents in the project area support the traffic management measures.
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Traffic calming measures proceed for Vernon neighbourhood
by Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star posted Jul 15, 2014 at 6:00 AM
Traffic calming is proceeding in a Vernon neighbourhood but not to the extent originally proposed. City council decided Monday to install crosswalks at three sections of 25th Street as a way of slowing down motorists and enhancing pedestrian safety. “It’s a first step to make that community safer,” said Coun. Brian Quiring. However, other measures such as possibly right-in and right-out access at intersections are on hold until at least 2015. “There are other things we want to consider,” said Quiring. “We are doing the right thing by looking at it further.” The city required 66 per cent support from residents in the immediate neighbourhood for the entire traffic management plan but that fell short at 63 per cent. As a result, staff recommended crosswalks at this time and going back to the residents next year to see how effective the crosswalks have been and if more needs to be done to control motorists. Council has also instructed staff to take immediate steps to contact some of the nearby businesses who generate through traffic on 25th Street. “A significant amount of traffic and problem is coming from trucks and contractors (for local businesses),” said Quiring. “We need to look at how to deal with that.”
Saturday, May 24, 2014
DCC Analysis 2009-2013
This table shows the DCC's (Development Cost Charge) levies that have flowed through the City of Vernon DCC Reserve Accounts for the last 5 years. The Balance for 2013 is at Dec. 31, 2013. For example Road DCC's have a balance of $934,084. This reserve will be replenished by any DCC's charged to development in 2014.
There were 657,356 Road DCC's budgeted in 2014. (See P.59 of 2014-2018 Financial Plan)
The $39,563 used in 2013 was for authorized DCC Road Capital Projects done in 2013. The budgeted projects totalling $ 453,397. can be found at P.49 of 2013-2017 Financial Plan. They included the 29th st Polson Greenway project (Phase 2) $391,397 and $47,000 for the 25th st Project TR7 Bicycle Corridor- Both of which were carried over to be done in 2014. $35,000 used was for Engineering Predesign work etc. (Actual final DCC $ used will vary from Budgeted numbers.)
There are 2 different Roads DCC projects Programs for which development pays their applicable share of the DCC's pot. (See Below). These projects are intended to be funded over a 40 year full build out period. A full posting (including Sewer and Sanitary projects) on all DCC Programs is available here.
There were 657,356 Road DCC's budgeted in 2014. (See P.59 of 2014-2018 Financial Plan)
- $707,356 29 ST SAN / STM / ROAD RECONSTRUCTION - 41 AVE TO 43 AVE (p543) (Pol. Greenway project- Carried over from 2013.
- $50,000 2015 CAPITAL DESIGN - ROAD AND STORM (p.549)
The $39,563 used in 2013 was for authorized DCC Road Capital Projects done in 2013. The budgeted projects totalling $ 453,397. can be found at P.49 of 2013-2017 Financial Plan. They included the 29th st Polson Greenway project (Phase 2) $391,397 and $47,000 for the 25th st Project TR7 Bicycle Corridor- Both of which were carried over to be done in 2014. $35,000 used was for Engineering Predesign work etc. (Actual final DCC $ used will vary from Budgeted numbers.)
There are 2 different Roads DCC projects Programs for which development pays their applicable share of the DCC's pot. (See Below). These projects are intended to be funded over a 40 year full build out period. A full posting (including Sewer and Sanitary projects) on all DCC Programs is available here.
Friday, May 16, 2014
Road input drives ahead
by Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star posted May 16, 2014 at 1:00 AM
No immediate decisions will be made on possibly changing traffic patterns on a Vernon road. Upwards of 50 people attended an open house Wednesday to discuss a proposal that could see through traffic and left-hand turns limited at key intersections on 25th Street, from Pleasant Valley Road to 46th Avenue. It’s expected the concept won’t go before city council for final approval in July as feedback from residents in the neighbourhood is sought. “We are looking forward to hearing the public’s input,” said Coun. Mary-Jo O’Keefe. The proposal calls for a centre median at the intersection of 32nd Avenue and 25th Street, two intersections at 25th Street and 39th Avenue and a centre median at 43rd Avenue and 25th Street. City staff say the plan was developed because residents on 25th Street are upset about speed and the volume of vehicles trying to avoid 27th Street. “They are short-cutting and not accessing properties there,” said Amanda Watson, a municipal transportation technician. Watson believes one indication of a problem is a high rate of pets being killed by vehicles. “Parents are concerned about children walking and biking along these streets,” she said of the area. However, Ruth Haskivich, who has lived on 25th Street for 48 years, insists there is not a safety issue. “Very few people are using it to avoid 27th Street. There are just more people living in the neighbourhood,” she said. “They think this will calm traffic down but it won’t. Speeding is not happening at the corners but in between.” Haskivich is recommending pedestrian-operated crosswalk lights and a sidewalk. “We only want a simple solution that benefits everyone,” she said. Sixty-six per cent of the residents within the specific area must approve of the removal of the through and left-turn movements at the three intersections. “There were more people in support (Wednesday) than opposed but one meeting is not everything,” said Watson. “We have given them multiple options for them to put input forward.”
Thursday, May 15, 2014
Proposed Traffic Change Questioned
Written by Peter McIntyre 107.5 KISSFM Thursday, 15 May 2014 06:00
An idea to limit through traffic on a secondary north-south Vernon route, is not sitting well with some elected reps. City staff are getting public input on changes to 25th Street from Pleasant Valley Road to 46th Avenue. Acting mayor Juliette Cunningham says 66 percent of residents in the affected area would have to approve the change, for it to proceed. She says "Residents have always been concerned that people are speeding along there using it as an alternative to 27th street, so staff is looking at ways to minimize the impact on the neighborhood." Cunningham doesn't support the idea "It doesn't sound to me like we were totally aware of the implications of what was being suggested in terms of no through traffic going through there ." Staff say that road's main purpose is to provide access for residents, not to give vehicles another north-south travelling option.
An idea to limit through traffic on a secondary north-south Vernon route, is not sitting well with some elected reps. City staff are getting public input on changes to 25th Street from Pleasant Valley Road to 46th Avenue. Acting mayor Juliette Cunningham says 66 percent of residents in the affected area would have to approve the change, for it to proceed. She says "Residents have always been concerned that people are speeding along there using it as an alternative to 27th street, so staff is looking at ways to minimize the impact on the neighborhood." Cunningham doesn't support the idea "It doesn't sound to me like we were totally aware of the implications of what was being suggested in terms of no through traffic going through there ." Staff say that road's main purpose is to provide access for residents, not to give vehicles another north-south travelling option.
Sunday, December 22, 2013
Council approves new fees
by Roger Knox - Vernon Morning Star posted Dec 22, 2013 at 1:00 AM
Development cost charges (DCCs) for new development are moving closer to fruition in Spallumcheen. Planners Urban Systems have come up with a 17-page report proposing DCCs for single- and multi-family residential units, along with industrial, commercial, agricultural and institutional development. “They have come up with a number that equalized rates for industry and agriculture,” said township administrator Greg Betts. “They’ve also adjusted the growth projection.” In the report, the proposed DCC rates for single-family residential homes per unit would be $5,298.32; for multi-family residential per unit, the rate would be $3,443.91. The DCC for industrial based on per meter-squared gross floor area is $22.95; commercial and institutional rates would be $15.89; and for agricultural, the rate would be $16.81. Council voted unanimously on a staff recommendation to send the Urban Systems report to the ministry of community, sport and cultural development for its review. A stakeholder meeting has been scheduled for Jan. 27, from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. at the township office to go over the report. Mayor Janice Brown said it is important to remember that the DCCs are being considered because of the amount of roads in the township. “This is for new development only and there will be lots of public consultation on the charges around that end,” said Brown. “It’s too make sure that when people are increasing their traffic on the roads that we’re looked after as a municipality.”
Development cost charges (DCCs) for new development are moving closer to fruition in Spallumcheen. Planners Urban Systems have come up with a 17-page report proposing DCCs for single- and multi-family residential units, along with industrial, commercial, agricultural and institutional development. “They have come up with a number that equalized rates for industry and agriculture,” said township administrator Greg Betts. “They’ve also adjusted the growth projection.” In the report, the proposed DCC rates for single-family residential homes per unit would be $5,298.32; for multi-family residential per unit, the rate would be $3,443.91. The DCC for industrial based on per meter-squared gross floor area is $22.95; commercial and institutional rates would be $15.89; and for agricultural, the rate would be $16.81. Council voted unanimously on a staff recommendation to send the Urban Systems report to the ministry of community, sport and cultural development for its review. A stakeholder meeting has been scheduled for Jan. 27, from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. at the township office to go over the report. Mayor Janice Brown said it is important to remember that the DCCs are being considered because of the amount of roads in the township. “This is for new development only and there will be lots of public consultation on the charges around that end,” said Brown. “It’s too make sure that when people are increasing their traffic on the roads that we’re looked after as a municipality.”
Friday, October 25, 2013
Mayor calls for review of DCC missteps
By Jessica Peters - Agassiz Observer Updated: October 25, 2013 4:18 PM
Almost $400,000 was never collected for agricultural road DCCs in the District of Kent, dating from 2005 to 2008. A section in the now-defunct bylaw 1306 stated that development cost charges be paid for new barns, shops and other farming buildings, similar to regular construction road DCCs. However, there was backlash from the agricultural community about the fees and subsequently none were ever collected, according to documents received through a Freedom of Information request by local developer Allan Bott. Bott addressed Kent council on Oct. 15 with his findings, and posed several pointed questions at council and staff. "Is it possible that the council that passed Bylaw 1306 in 2004 had not even read or failed to understand that document? Even I would not suggest such incompetence," he said. "But is it possible?" What followed after the passing of Bylaw 1306 was a series of "half steps and missteps" to repeal and replace the bylaw without section F, which outlined the agricultural road DCC fees. That finally happened in 2009, just as current Mayor John Van Laerhoven was learning the ropes as a new councillor. Bott has been working with the District of Kent to unravel what happened from 2004-2008, so his presentation wasn't a shock to anyone, Van Laerhoven said. Still, he expressed concern for what processes were ignored. He asked council to carefully consider the issue, and plans to have it on the agenda for the Monday, Oct. 28 council meeting (7:30 p.m.). "I, too, am somewhat perplexed by what occurred," Van Laerhoven said. "Was there a policy shift in place? I will be asking council to review this carefully." He would like to see an independent review of the situation, possibly by the provincial ombudsman. "This needs to see the light of day," Van Laerhoven told the Observer. "This is all public information and I think it's good. It needs to be talked about." Development cost charges are to be collected at time of building, and help cover costs of infrastructure changes, such as road widening.
Almost $400,000 was never collected for agricultural road DCCs in the District of Kent, dating from 2005 to 2008. A section in the now-defunct bylaw 1306 stated that development cost charges be paid for new barns, shops and other farming buildings, similar to regular construction road DCCs. However, there was backlash from the agricultural community about the fees and subsequently none were ever collected, according to documents received through a Freedom of Information request by local developer Allan Bott. Bott addressed Kent council on Oct. 15 with his findings, and posed several pointed questions at council and staff. "Is it possible that the council that passed Bylaw 1306 in 2004 had not even read or failed to understand that document? Even I would not suggest such incompetence," he said. "But is it possible?" What followed after the passing of Bylaw 1306 was a series of "half steps and missteps" to repeal and replace the bylaw without section F, which outlined the agricultural road DCC fees. That finally happened in 2009, just as current Mayor John Van Laerhoven was learning the ropes as a new councillor. Bott has been working with the District of Kent to unravel what happened from 2004-2008, so his presentation wasn't a shock to anyone, Van Laerhoven said. Still, he expressed concern for what processes were ignored. He asked council to carefully consider the issue, and plans to have it on the agenda for the Monday, Oct. 28 council meeting (7:30 p.m.). "I, too, am somewhat perplexed by what occurred," Van Laerhoven said. "Was there a policy shift in place? I will be asking council to review this carefully." He would like to see an independent review of the situation, possibly by the provincial ombudsman. "This needs to see the light of day," Van Laerhoven told the Observer. "This is all public information and I think it's good. It needs to be talked about." Development cost charges are to be collected at time of building, and help cover costs of infrastructure changes, such as road widening.
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
$2.9-million affordable rental housing opened in Vernon
VERNON – Families and individuals in need in the community of Vernon now will have access to 20 new affordable rental housing apartments with the official opening of Vernon Viridian today. Located at 3705 - 24th Ave., the new townhouse development consists of eight bachelor, eight one-bedroom and four two-bedroom units managed and operated by Kindale Developmental Association. The capital cost of the project was approximately $2.9 million, of which the B.C. government provided over $2.85 million for the purchase of the land and capital costs. The City of Vernon waived over $81,370 in development cost charges. Tenants began to move in mid-September. Approximately half of the development’s units are rented with full occupancy expected by late November.
Tuesday, April 23, 2013
Council supports BC Housing request
by Melissa Ligertwood - Castanet Apr 22, 2013 / 5:12 pm
Vernon City Council has agreed to support a rezoning application for a BC Housing project on 24 Street. Vernon Viridian, which will be managed by Kindale Developmental Association, is a $2.85M affordable housing development that will provide up to 20 units for families, singles and people with disabilities in the community. The development was originally planned as 12 townhouse units, but BC Housing wants to redesign the space in order to incorporate another eight bachelor units. The request before council seeks to rezone the property from RM1, row housing, to RH1, low-rise apartments, along with variance requests on front yard setbacks and a reduction in the required parking stalls. If the proposed changes are permitted, the development will have four larger two-bed, two-bath townhomes, and the remaining eight units would be broken down into one-bedroom upper floor units with separate bachelor suites at ground level. Councillor Juliette Cunningham, who visited the development at an open house back in March, spoke in favour of the proposed changes. “I’ve been to the site and it’s a great project. The units are small but designed really well,” said Cunningham. Although parking would be reduced from 27 to 18 stalls, Mayor Sawatsky was quick to point out that, out of the seven applications received for space at the Viridian, none have a vehicle. The matter is scheduled for public hearing on May 27.
Vernon City Council has agreed to support a rezoning application for a BC Housing project on 24 Street. Vernon Viridian, which will be managed by Kindale Developmental Association, is a $2.85M affordable housing development that will provide up to 20 units for families, singles and people with disabilities in the community. The development was originally planned as 12 townhouse units, but BC Housing wants to redesign the space in order to incorporate another eight bachelor units. The request before council seeks to rezone the property from RM1, row housing, to RH1, low-rise apartments, along with variance requests on front yard setbacks and a reduction in the required parking stalls. If the proposed changes are permitted, the development will have four larger two-bed, two-bath townhomes, and the remaining eight units would be broken down into one-bedroom upper floor units with separate bachelor suites at ground level. Councillor Juliette Cunningham, who visited the development at an open house back in March, spoke in favour of the proposed changes. “I’ve been to the site and it’s a great project. The units are small but designed really well,” said Cunningham. Although parking would be reduced from 27 to 18 stalls, Mayor Sawatsky was quick to point out that, out of the seven applications received for space at the Viridian, none have a vehicle. The matter is scheduled for public hearing on May 27.
Friday, January 18, 2013
Suite approval to be simplified
By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: January 18, 2013 1:00 AM
Efforts are underway to encourage secondary suites in Vernon and minimize issues around them. City council has directed staff to take a number of steps that would clarify requirements for secondary suites in residential homes and simplify the approval process. “It’s one of the approaches recognized in our affordable housing strategy,” said Coun. Juliette Cunningham of suites. “There are hundreds throughout the city and just 24 are legal.” Staff has been asked to investigate a streamlined process for secondary suites including reduced costs and requirements. Council also wants bylaws amended to eliminate billing for secondary suite owners at the base rate for water and sanitary sewer and maintain a base rate for garbage for all authorized secondary suites. Staff will also consider ways to encourage all new detached single-family home construction to include the provision for the future installation of a suite. One area that is also being pursued is distinguishing in-law suites from income-generating suites. “Adult children have taken on their parents and they get slammed with costs,” said Cunningham, adding that keeping families together should be considered differently than someone collecting rent. There could also be amendments to how illegal suites are handled. The affordable housing advisory committee has recommended requiring at least two written complaints from two different residents or business operators within a 50-metre radius and within a six-month period to initiate the bylaw enforcement process. “We want to reduce the angst for people when they are reported on by neighbours,” said Cunningham.
Efforts are underway to encourage secondary suites in Vernon and minimize issues around them. City council has directed staff to take a number of steps that would clarify requirements for secondary suites in residential homes and simplify the approval process. “It’s one of the approaches recognized in our affordable housing strategy,” said Coun. Juliette Cunningham of suites. “There are hundreds throughout the city and just 24 are legal.” Staff has been asked to investigate a streamlined process for secondary suites including reduced costs and requirements. Council also wants bylaws amended to eliminate billing for secondary suite owners at the base rate for water and sanitary sewer and maintain a base rate for garbage for all authorized secondary suites. Staff will also consider ways to encourage all new detached single-family home construction to include the provision for the future installation of a suite. One area that is also being pursued is distinguishing in-law suites from income-generating suites. “Adult children have taken on their parents and they get slammed with costs,” said Cunningham, adding that keeping families together should be considered differently than someone collecting rent. There could also be amendments to how illegal suites are handled. The affordable housing advisory committee has recommended requiring at least two written complaints from two different residents or business operators within a 50-metre radius and within a six-month period to initiate the bylaw enforcement process. “We want to reduce the angst for people when they are reported on by neighbours,” said Cunningham.
Sunday, September 23, 2012
City denied fee waive request
By Roger Knox - Vernon Morning Star Published: September 23, 2012 1:00 AM
Regional District of North Okanagan directors have denied a Vernon affordable housing advocate’s request to waive three fees for conditions of water service pertaining to his latest two projects. Directors claim they have to deny Jed Astin’s request because he operates a for-profit company so therefore they can’t waive the fees. “It’s illegal,” explained David Sewell, chief financial officer for RDNO following debate among directors following Astin’s presentation. “Through the Local Government Act as a regional district, and the community charter as municipalities, we are barred from providing direct assistance in this case. We don’t have the ability to provide that waiver.” Astin presented directors with a petition in support of his request to waive development cost charges (DCCs), water service construction fee and installation of fire hydrants for affordable housing projects on 37th and 28th Avenues in Vernon. In his presentation package, Astin said he developed the first rooming house in Vernon, along with numerous present affordable housing buildings that have received “city and community support.” He called the conditions of water service charges for both of his new affordable housing projects “not supportive.” “That’s given the regional district’s growth strategy for housing,” said Astin. “The board is encouraged to review such charges accordingly, including admission of no DCCs applicable, and a more appropriate fee for the change of water service connection to a building.” Astin was joined for his presentation by a number of people who live in his affordable housing projects, and by supporter Nicholas Stodin, who disagreed with Sewell’s contention the request was illegal. “There’s an exception in the Local Government Act where such conditions are allowed and conditions which it’s not allowed,” said Stodin. Lumby Mayor Kevin Acton said during discussion that such a request should go directly to the City of Vernon where the projects are located, and that regional neighbours should not be put in a position to waive such requests. “We have our own challenges with affordable housing, and we need to spend our money there,” said Acton. “We should not be hamstrung with being billed for affordable housing outside our community. If this company needs help from Lumby they can come to Lumby and ask for help. We’d be more than happy to support building affordable housing in our town.”
Regional District of North Okanagan directors have denied a Vernon affordable housing advocate’s request to waive three fees for conditions of water service pertaining to his latest two projects. Directors claim they have to deny Jed Astin’s request because he operates a for-profit company so therefore they can’t waive the fees. “It’s illegal,” explained David Sewell, chief financial officer for RDNO following debate among directors following Astin’s presentation. “Through the Local Government Act as a regional district, and the community charter as municipalities, we are barred from providing direct assistance in this case. We don’t have the ability to provide that waiver.” Astin presented directors with a petition in support of his request to waive development cost charges (DCCs), water service construction fee and installation of fire hydrants for affordable housing projects on 37th and 28th Avenues in Vernon. In his presentation package, Astin said he developed the first rooming house in Vernon, along with numerous present affordable housing buildings that have received “city and community support.” He called the conditions of water service charges for both of his new affordable housing projects “not supportive.” “That’s given the regional district’s growth strategy for housing,” said Astin. “The board is encouraged to review such charges accordingly, including admission of no DCCs applicable, and a more appropriate fee for the change of water service connection to a building.” Astin was joined for his presentation by a number of people who live in his affordable housing projects, and by supporter Nicholas Stodin, who disagreed with Sewell’s contention the request was illegal. “There’s an exception in the Local Government Act where such conditions are allowed and conditions which it’s not allowed,” said Stodin. Lumby Mayor Kevin Acton said during discussion that such a request should go directly to the City of Vernon where the projects are located, and that regional neighbours should not be put in a position to waive such requests. “We have our own challenges with affordable housing, and we need to spend our money there,” said Acton. “We should not be hamstrung with being billed for affordable housing outside our community. If this company needs help from Lumby they can come to Lumby and ask for help. We’d be more than happy to support building affordable housing in our town.”
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