Video explains city infrastructure challenges

MORNING STAR STAFF Apr. 24, 2018 1:30 p.m.COMMUNITY
Three-minute animated video designed to inform residents on capital works and taxation.

The City of Vernon has released a short informational video to tell the story of the challenges that the city faces in terms of aging infrastructure and funding. The video also highlights some of the recent capital projects that are helping to address these and achieve council’s strategic plan goals.The three minute animated video, developed by Sproing Creative in Vernon, is the latest in a series from the city designed to inform residents about complex subjects such as taxation and capital works.
You can watch the new video below.

Vernon Adds Staff For Infrastructure Growth

Vernon, BC, Canada / 1075 KISS FM Pete McIntyre July 19, 2017 06:26 am
The City of Vernon will be adding another staff member — but it may not be permanent. Council approved a full time position to the Community Infrastructure and Development Services Division. Mayor Akbal Mund says it’s needed due to the work load. “Two years ago we were doing about seven million dollars. Next year we’re going to be doing fourteen million dollars worth of infrastructure work. We can’t do that if we don’t have the staff to go through all the particulars.” The Mayor says funding for the position may come from the 1.9 per cent infrastructure levy. “We’re not going to try to take this and dump it on the taxpayer. Legally, we can take it from the infrastructure levy. That’s what we’ll do because you can apply that.” Mund says the position will be for two years, with a review after that.
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P.11 agenda https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/meetings/agendas/170717_reg.pdf

Canada and British Columbia invest in 144 new water and wastewater infrastructure projects across the province Read more: http://www.digitaljournal.com/pr/3274588#ixzz4bbzzwrnH

$9 Million For Water Projects

Vernon, BC, Canada / 1075 KISS FM Pete McIntyre March 17, 2017 12:05 pm 
The BC and federal governments have announced over 9 million dollars in funding for water projects in the North Okanagan.The announcements include 5.8 million dollars for the Duteau Creek Treatment Plant UV disinfection addition, along with just over three million dollars for a sewer extension project in Vernon’s Okanagan Landing. Vernon Monashee MLA Eric Foster denies the announcements are election related.“This is the typical year end, when you’ve got a surplus, capital projects. In years when you don’t have a surplus, or have a smaller surplus, you can’t do as much. We just happen to have a lot of money this year,” Foster tells Kiss FM.Also getting grants are Coldstream and Lumby for water projects: $107,900 for Coldstream sewer line extension, $200,176 for a groundwater supply evaluation & monitoring well construction in Lumby, and $198,477 for a long-term wastewater treatment plant upgrades in Lumby.


https://www.canada.ca/en/office-infrastructure/news/2017/03/backgrounder_canadaandbritishcolumbiaannouncenewwaterandwastewat.html

The governments of Canada and British Columbia have approved a new list of projects under the Clean Water and Wastewater Fund (CWWF), which supports the rehabilitation of community drinking water and wastewater infrastructure and the planning and design of future systems that meet drinking water and wastewater effluent standards.

The Government of Canada allocated $225,067,721 to British Columbia under the CWWF and will fund up to 50 per cent of the eligible project costs. The Government of British Columbia will provide up to $148.5 million and will fund 33 per cent of the eligible project costs. With local governments providing the remainder, a combined total of $450 million will provide B.C. families with clean and reliable drinking water and wastewater services.

As part of the bilateral agreement between Canada and British Columbia, the following 144 projects have now been approved for federal funding amounting to more than $186.6 million. Combined with provincial funding of nearly $123.2 million and local government contributions of over $63.4 million, more than $373.2 million will be going toward projects across the province.
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Location Project Name Federal Funding Provincial Funding Municipal Funding Anticipated Start Date

 

Backgrounder: Canada and British Columbia announce funding for 26 new infrastructure projects across B.C.

The governments of Canada and British Columbia are each providing up to $43,522,512 towards 26 new projects that will benefit 26 small communities throughout the province.

The Small Communities Fund provides support for priority public infrastructure projects that deliver on local needs in communities across Canada that have fewer than 100,000 residents.

The projects are as follows:

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https://rdno.civicweb.net/document/61018 (p.17-19)
RECOMMENDATION: October 20, 2016
That it be recommended to the Board of Directors, the funding application for $7,000,000 to the Infrastructure Canada Clean Water and Waste Water Fund, for Greater Vernon Water to complete  the construction of an Ultraviolet Treatment and Air Scrubbing system at the Duteau Creek Water Treatment Plant, be endorsed; and further, That the funding of the Greater Vernon Water share ($1,190,000) be funded from Greater Vernon Water (GVW) reserves.
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See how investments in Clean Water and Wastewater Fund and Public Transit Infrastructure Fund are being used in your province and municipality.

http://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/pt-sp/index-eng.html
CWWF latest information. There is still hope for RDNO project to be approved ??

http://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/pt-sp/projects-list-liste-projets-bc-eng.html

30th Street Upgrade Begins

Posted on 7/18/2016 6:56 AM by KISS News Staff
The facelift for a section of 30th street in Vernon gets underway today. The road is closed from Highway 6 to 30th Avenue. Vernon's Manager of Infrastructure Management, Mark Dowhaniuk, says the work includes road and underground utility reconstruction, a two-way bike and sidewalk improvements. "The City of Vernon has had this corridor planned to be upgraded for many years now. There will be one lane of parking that will basically be converted to a wider sidewalk as well as a multi-use bike path heading on the east side of the road." It's all part of a bigger plan overall according to Dowhaniuk. "Definitely doing a lot of infrastructure renewal replacing what we have. In these key corridors we're looking to invest our money to also enhance the esthetics as well as the function so people can get around easier in the city." Dowhaniuk, says the city will monitor how the work affects businesses. "The project team actually did a walk through with every business in the area a couple of weeks ago and will be in continuous contact to make sure that the business concerns are addressed during construction." The 2 million dollar project is expected to take until late October. Pedestrians will be allowed through the area but traffic is being detoured during construction.
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https://www.vernon.ca/business/bid-opportunities/bid-results
16-49-ENG 30ST - Rd & Utility Rehab Ph 1 Hwy 6 to 30/29 Ave
CGL Contracting Ltd. $2,083,487.83  Apr 28, 2016 - 
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Current vs Concept images (More)

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The above project is part of TR6 Dcc Project. This is the next phase.

29th/30th Street Transportation Corridor (municipal improvements, phases 1, 2 and 3 completed): realignment to create a continuous north-south internal route (two lanes and multi-use path and a new intersection at 39th Avenue railroad crossing to connect 29th Street to an extended 30th Street;

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https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/adopted_2016-2020_financial_plan.pdf (p.411)

Massive grant for Lumby

by Kate Bouey - CASTANET Feb 12, 2016 / 5:04 pm
The Village of Lumby has been awarded $1,711,938 for a sustainable water plan aimed at revitalization. Mayor Kevin Acton believes the funds could help the community get back on its feet. The massive sum for the village comes from the federal Gas Tax Fund. “This project will renew aging and undersized water infrastructure in our downtown core as well as the southern component of industrial park lands,” stated a village press release Friday. “The benefits to Lumby are significant. Increased fire flows, right-sized water lines, and significant improvements to the integrity of the water utility.” The Village of Lumby is also contributing $120,000 to the project, estimated at $1,831,938. “This project will create jobs,” Acton said, adding he was excited and grateful for the funds. “This could put the community back on its feet.” The village held public consultations recently to find ways to improve the local economy which has been hit by a general slowdown in the forestry sector leading to job losses. Village officials are hopeful revitalization projects, such as this, will encourage new businesses to locate their operations in Lumby. “This will not only replace old pipes that are probably leaking into the ground but will provide fire flows to the industrial park,” said Acton. “And industrial land in the North Okanagan is very, very scarce.”

Project details include:
1,830 metres of 300 mm water main to be replaced
Well head protection improvements
Intrusion alarms and communication upgrades at all facilities
Leblanc Street pressure zone change
Backup generator for the lower reservoir.
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GVAC AND RDNO Applied for a Grant re Aberdeen Dam: (Denied) 
http://vernonblog.blogspot.ca/2015/03/aberdeen-dam-grant-application.html

Click to Enlarge:
http://www.ubcm.ca/EN/main/funding/renewed-gas-tax-agreement/strategic-priorities-fund.html

http://www.ubcm.ca/assets/Funding~Programs/Renewed~Gas~Tax~Agreement/Strategic~Priorities~Fund/SPF-
Approved-Projects-January-18-2016.pdf

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Prior Years Funding Grants for selected Areas:

Mund eyes federal money

by Darren Handschuh CASTANET - Oct 22, 2015 / 5:00 am
They may be at different levels of government, but Vernon's mayor is no stranger to MP-elect Mel Arnold. Arnold won the North Okanagan-Shuswap federal riding Monday for the Conservative Party, which was reduced to being the official opposition after Justin Trudeau's Liberals formed a majority government. “I've known Mel for a couple of years and I am looking forward to working with him,” said mayor Akbal Mund, adding the fact Arnold is not with the ruling party should have no impact on how the area is treated by the feds. “The prime minister (designate) did make B.C. a priority and lets hope some of that priority comes to Vernon,” said Mund. “The good thing is the future prime minister has been to Vernon. He is a long time skier of Silver Star mountain. I think he's been here twice in the last four or five years. He definitely knows the area.” Like many municipal politicians, Mund will be keeping a close eye on infrastructure dollars from Ottawa. Trudeau hailed the need for infrastructure spending to get the economy moving again and Mund hopes some of those campaign promises materialize in the form of federal funding. “I think everybody is very excited about that,” Mund said. “We will have to take a wait-and-see approach because there is always a lot of promises being made, but some of those come at the last minute so we will have to wait and see.” Mund said he was surprised at how fast the Liberals formed a majority government, but was not surprised to see the Conservatives reduced to the official opposition.

The high cost of waiting to replace Vernon's aging water system

By Charlotte Helston Info-Tel Multimedia December 08, 2014 - 3:25 PM
VERNON - Costs of aging water pipes are beginning to pile up in the City of Vernon with 86 water main breaks in just the last three years—four of them this month. And the costs are not just in dollars and cents. Breaks on Nov. 25 left over 100 residents without water. Earlier in the year, a water line ruptured and flooded the Vernon Public Art Gallery. We also heard about a city dump truck that collapsed into a sinkhole, likely caused by a water flow from a broken water main. According to the city, there have been 28 water main breaks to date, another 25 in 2013 and 33 in 2012. And while Barry Baker, the City’s utilities manager, chalks it up to “social media” and the work of a new communications person informing residents about the activity, the real problem is the City’s water pipes that are nearing the end of their life expectancy. He estimates it costs between $2,000-$8,000 for an emergency main repair, not to mention the disruption to residents. For context, Vernon has nearly twice the failure rate of nearby municipalities. The City of Penticton reports half as many, with 15 to date, and 11 in 2013. The City of Kelowna had even less, averaging six to eight per year. The service is provided through the Greater Vernon Water utility, and manager Zee Marcolin says Vernon’s city water is run through pipes that, in many cases, are 50 years old. “It’s kind of a neglected area. I don’t think it’s fully appreciated that once you put the pipes in the ground you have to replace them,” Marcolin says. “There’s been a lot of work and money put in over the last ten years. We’re slowly chipping away and it’s improved quite a bit, but there’s still a lot of work to be done.” Infrastructure renewal has moved to the forefront over the last decade, and Marcolin says the utility committed to $2 million a year strictly for upgrades. “Even with $2 million, it will be a number of years before we catch up on our backlog,” Marcolin says. A partnership with the UBCO engineering department has researchers creating an inventory of work that needs to be done, including areas that need immediate attention. The age of the infrastructure, the pipe material, and the history of water main breaks will help determine where the priorities are. The water system faces some specific challenges; first, many of the network’s pipes are made of cast iron, which tends to corrode in the clay soils found around Vernon. Another compounding factor is terrain. “Because Vernon is so hilly, we use a lot of pressure reducing valves,” Marcolin says. When it’s coming down from (the watershed) there’s so much pressure that without valves, the pipes would blow up.... If you have old pipes that are corroded, they fail.” Adding to the pressure is the size of their network of pipes. Close to 700 kilometers in its network makes it the third largest utility in the province, Marcolin says, adding it's part of the reason Vernon experiences more failures than municipalities like Kelowna and Penticton.

NOT JUST PIPES. According to the City of Vernon’s infrastructure management technician Chris Thompson, the city is aware it faces challenges with aging infrastructure across the board—including road, drainage and facility infrastructure. He says aging infrastructure is an issue throughout North America stemming from an upswing in development after World War II. “The city is making its best efforts to evaluate and spend its money as wisely as possible,” Thompson says. The majority of Vernon’s infrastructure has a lifespan of about 45 years, and on average, the city is about halfway through those lifespans, Thompson says. “That means we’re definitely in a situation where we have to start planning for the future,” he says. Between a 1.9 per cent tax increase strictly for infrastructure renewal over the next ten years and a dedicated priority action approach, Thompson is optimistic the city can keep up with the upgrades. As much as possible, the city is trying to replace aging infrastructure before it goes. “The costs to do an emergency repair are astronomically higher than doing a planned repair,” Thompson says. “It also increases the affect on the community.... When it’s planned we can accommodate them and have the interruptions be minimal.”

Narrower road lanes part of Vernon's plans to reduce costs

by Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star posted Sep 8, 2014 at 11:00 AM
Road widths will be shrinking and there will be clear rules about who maintains public boulevard. On Monday, Vernon council gave approval to the integrated transportation framework, which focuses on reducing cost pressures while meeting the long-term needs of the public. “In my 30 years of experience, this is the most comprehensive, forward-thinking plan to protect publicly owned assets,” said Will Pearce, chief administrative officer. “This is a fundamental building block for the development of our community, the lifestyle we share and to attract investors to the community.” About $6.7 million a year is available for road renewal and maintenance but $8.4 million a year would be needed to rebuild and maintain the exact same network. That results in a $1.7 million annual shortfall. To find savings, a number of initiatives are planned, including reducing road lane widths from 3.5 to 3.25 metres. The primary focus will be new roads linked to new development, but incremental changes could occur on existing roads as they are upgraded. This could save $0.3 million a year. “We’re not going to see massive changes tomorrow,” said Mark Dowhaniuk, infrastructure engineer. Staff has also been directed to investigate methods to increase the service life or generate applicable revenue for 27th Street. “It’s our busiest and most expensive road,” said Dowhaniuk. “It costs $100,000 extra a year to maintain that road.” Options for reducing costs are improving standards to reduce long-term work or issuing permits to large trucks that cause most of the wear on 27th Street. The integrated transportation framework also calls on staff to define the responsibility of home owners when it comes to the maintenance of adjacent boulevards. “We’re really tying to control the costs the city is responsible for through policy,” said Dowhaniuk. “Maintaining grass and trees becomes quite expensive for taxpayers. We need a clear policy because people aren’t clear (about having to mow lawn and other activities).” More information can be found at http://www.vernon.ca/index.php/projects/asset-management-integrated-transportation-framework/ “We have taken a logical, scientific approach to dealing with the infrastructure deficit,” said Coun. Catherine Lord. Mayor Rob Sawatzky insists this process is essential to maintain a sustainable community. “Many communities opt for pretty, photo-op projects, but a plan like this is probably the most important municipal housekeeping effort we can provide for our citizens,” he said.

City targets road maintenance cutbacks

by Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star posted Apr 9, 2014 at 1:00 AM

Asphalt Milling Machine

Financial pressures could transform Vernon’s transportation network. City council has endorsed an integrated transportation network that could see road widths reduced, some aging sidewalks abandoned, maintenance prolonged on some roads and gutters replaced by ditches. “It will not be business as usual,” said Mark Dowhaniuk, infrastructure engineer. “We will provide a functional transportation network and remain financially sustainable by adjusting levels of service.” The goal is to keep costs in line while ensuring roads and sidewalks continue to meet public needs. “It’s a huge issue,” said Mayor Rob Sawatzky of the infrastructure deficit. “Vernon has been in the lead looking at what the problems are and what the solutions may be.” The proposal endorsed by council calls for rebuild/maintenance costs of $6.3 to $6.9 million a year over 10 years. A number of savings are anticipated if some roads are declassified for maintenance, lane widths are reduced, fewer sidewalks are replaced and the paved surface for rural residential roads is reduced.

Some local roads may not see asphalt renewal for 60 years. “It’s not much different than what we’re seeing now,” said Dowhaniuk. Alternate technology, such as grinding and reusing asphalt, could be initiated for major paving projects. Instead of current storm water controls, there could be a move to ditches in some rural neighbourhoods. “I think we’ll get push back on no curb and gutter,” said Coun. Brian Quiring. If the plan were to proceed, developers or neighbourhoods could pay for higher standards such as sidewalks or curb and gutter. “In Calgary, if anyone wants street lights or a park, they pay for it,” said Rob Dickinson, engineering manager. While council has endorsed a certain direction, city staff will continue to work on the integrated transportation framework. The final document will be presented to council in the future for consideration.
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Actual Presentation:
http://www.vernon.ca/images/uploads/council/agendas/packages/140407_special.pdf

Special COW Meeting of Council

Special Meeting of Council

Start Time: 9:00am - April 7, 2014
Location: Council Chambers
Agenda Index
Agenda Package
Mr. Mark Dowhaniuk, Infrastructure Engineer will provide a presentation regarding the Integrated Transportation 
Framework (ITF). 

New infrastructure fund includes $1B for small communities

CBC News Posted: Feb 13, 2014 2:16 PM ET
Smaller communities across the country will now have access to the same predictable funds that large urban centres have enjoyed in the past, Prime Minister Stephen Harper said in Gormley, Ont., today as he unveiled the details of a much anticipated 10-year infrastructure plan.

Read the details of the New Building Canada Fund here
BUDGET 2014 : Budget money for parks and bridges, but cities have to wait
"Provinces, territories, and municipalities will now have unprecedented access to predictable, sustainable, federal, infrastructure funds for a decade," Harper said.

The New Building Canada Plan includes a $14 billion fund to for projects of national significance and $10 billion for provincial and territorial infrastructure projects.

The $10 billion fund will see $9 billion of that directed to national and regional projects, and $1 billion set aside exclusively for projects in small communities with under 100,000 residents.

The new fund was first announced in last year's budget but cities have been waiting for over a year to find out if they qualify for the federal funds, which will start flowing on March 31.

Canada's mayors have complained about the delay, saying it could result in them losing out on thousands of jobs that come with the construction season.

Municipalities will be watching closely to see who benefits from the new funds to fix crumbling bridges, roads and wastewater systems.

Infrastructure deficit priority for city

by Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star posted Dec 29, 2013 at 1:00 AM
It’s not cheap running a community. Much of the City of Vernon’s focus during 2014 will be on strategic asset management, and specifically ensuring sidewalks, roads, sewer pipes and public buildings are maintained and replaced as required. “Most communities have aging infrastructure,” said Mayor Rob Sawatzky. “We have to finalize a sustainable program to manage them.” It’s believed Vernon’s infrastructure deficit is about $80 million, and while some of that will be paid through taxes, other options are being considered. “We can be more modest in the way we design roads and our sewer infrastructure,” said Sawatzky. “If we bring a road down in size by one-third, that reduces maintenance costs.” The lifespan of all city assets — roads, underground pipes, sidewalks, buildings, etc. — is 47 years and the average remaining life is 51 per cent. The $80 million deficit refers to infrastructure that is past its life expectancy, and if every asset had to be replaced, the price tag is $800 million. About $17 million a year is needed for renewal, including $8.4 million for roads and $4.5 million for the sewer system. Consultant Michael Trickey recently told council there is a need to look at the specific function of a road and to not over-design. “How many lanes do there have to be? How many shoulders? Does there have to be a bike path?” he said, adding that maintenance factors to consider are landscaping, snow storage and street lighting. Besides its own infrastructure, the city will be focused on Greater Vernon’s master water plan. Upgrading the water utility could cost $100 million. Another priority for Vernon council will be trying to bolster the economy. However, Sawatzky isn’t convinced Vernon is destined to become the centre of large manufacturers and it must consider why people come here. “Our strengths are an attractive climate, our lifestyle and arts and culture,” he said. “We have to make ourselves as attractive as we can to people who can live where they want such as independent small businesspeople.” The new year will also see the city become responsible for most parks in Vernon. Previously, they had been under the Regional District of North Okanagan. “There should be a net savings for city taxpayers,” said Sawatzky. “With one less layer of administration, we can be more responsive to (public) needs.” In terms of governance, a citizens’ group has asked the four Greater Vernon jurisdictions to pursue a study looking into the feasibility of amalgamation. Sawatzky won’t speculate on whether his council will support the concept. “Personally, I believe it’s worthwhile asking the provincial government for a study but I am only one voice on council,” he said. “Without information, citizens can’t make an informed vote if it comes to that.” But Sawatzky points out that Vernon cannot go it alone when it comes to amalgamation. “There can only be a study funded by the province if there are willing partners,” he said of Coldstream and Areas B and C. One question that Sawatzky will likely be asked frequently during 2014 is whether he will seek a second term in office during November’s election. “My plan is to discuss it with my family and make a decision as the year moves on,” he said, adding that he will consider a number of factors. “You have to consider age, health and family. It’s a very time consuming position. But it’s very rewarding to see the co-operative effort to build a community and to be part of it.
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EDITORIAL: Roads, sewer can't be ignored posted Dec 29, 2013 at 1:00 AM
The need to pump significant dollars into aging infrastructure is constantly on the radar and it will dominate discussions at Vernon city hall throughout 2014. “We have to finalize a sustainable program to manage them,” said Mayor Rob Sawatzky. In Vernon, the deficit amounts to about $80 million to replace assets that are past their life expectancy, whether it is roads, sidewalks, sewer lines or public buildings. About $17 million a year is needed for renewal. City council took a positive step in 2013 by designating a 1.9 per cent tax increase towards infrastructure only, but that won’t generate enough funds, and residents should expect further tax hikes as the years go by. But addressing the deficit isn’t all about money. The city is currently looking at how roads are designed. “How many lanes do there have to be? How many shoulders? Does there have to be a bike path?” said consultant Michael Trickey, adding that long-term maintenance implications to consider include landscaping and snow storage. The bottom line is that public expectations may have to change. Just because a road was a certain width before or new development always led to sidewalk installation doesn’t mean that may occur in the future to minimize maintenance costs. On top of this, the Interior Health Authority continues to demand upgrades to the regional water system and that could cost a staggering $100 million. Hopefully senior levels of government will step up to the plate with grants for all forms of infrastructure, but the reality is that local taxpayers will be on the hook for the bulk of the cost. It’s the price that must be paid for operating a community.

Mayors focus on renewal of infrastructure for 2014

SATURDAY, 28 DECEMBER 2013 02:00 RON SEYMOUR Kelowna Daily Courier
Okanagan mayors will be spending a good part of 2014 focused on the basic building blocks of their respective cities. The Okanagan Saturday asked some local politicians on Friday about their top priorities and aspirations for the 12 months ahead. A common theme through their responses was trying to improve the infrastructure of their municipalities. It may not be the most exciting of subjects, but roads, water and sewer lines are necessities to community life, and the expensive task of fixing their often-deteriorating condition is said by some to be the chief challenge facing all Canadian cities in the coming years. West Kelowna Mayor Doug Findlater: "More than anything, I'd like to see an early rollout of the next federal and provincial infrastructure program, in order that West Kelowna can accelerate the upgrade of roads, sidewalks, bike paths and waterlines in the community." Vernon Mayor Robert Sawatzky: "A big project for 2014 will be the development of our infrastructure and maintenance program. The total value of all our infrastructure assets has been estimated at $800 million, and council is looking at a 1.9 per cent tax increase in each of the coming years to raise money to improve our roads, sewers and water systems. "We'll also see a lot of construction next year on our new sports complex we're building in our partnership with Okanagan College." Kelowna Mayor Walter Gray: "I want a third year of progress in the community under this council. It's a council team that has been proven to be fiscally responsible and results oriented." Penticton Mayor Garry Litke: "We've got the rest of our new walkway along Okanagan Lake opening early in 2014." "It's four metres wide, about a kilometre long, with lots of room for walkers, bicyclists, Rollerbladers and people in wheelchairs," Litke said. "Council has budgeted for a downtown revitalization plan covering seven blocks. With the consent of the property owners, the plan would feature things like narrowing the road for vehicles, widening the sidewalks, and closing the street between Gyro and Veterans parks." Summerland Mayor Janice Perrino: "A big project for next year will be updating our growth strategy to encourage more residential and commercial development just north of downtown. This would involve getting some property out of the Agricultural Land Reserve, which we know will be controversial, but the intention is to put an equal amount of land, acre for acre, back into the reserve elsewhere. "We also need to find a suitable new location for our library. The existing one is about half the size it should be. And we're expecting to put the site of our old police station - a property of about two acres in size on Jubilee Street - onto the market next year."

The $100,000 club: Who’s really making big money these days

By Nancy Macdonald - Monday, April 15, 2013 Macleans (Full Article)
Canada’s new upper class: firefighters, police officers, teachers
Excerpts Below:

In the past three years alone, the total number of provincially paid public sector workers earning six-figure incomes jumped a staggering 39 per cent in Ontario and 32 per cent in British Columbia—the two provinces that release so-called “sunshine lists” detailing the earnings of the highest-paid public sector workers. That number is inevitably growing as the years go by, and it’s true, of course, that a six-figure income is not the milestone it was 15 years ago. Nevertheless, hefty raises and generous pensions and benefits have public sector workers earning, on average, 12 per cent more than their private sector counterparts nationally, according to new research by the Fraser Institute. Canadians working in the private sector are not seeing their incomes keep pace. By some measures, their wages have fallen 30 per cent. The result is an unprecedented shift among those who earn the most money in Canada, where the average income is $38,000, and a $100,000 income puts you in the richest six per cent of the population.
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Even the most cursory analysis of B.C.’s recently released data on government employees earning more than $75,000 illustrates the growth both in incomes and the size of the government workforce. Four years ago, Abbotsford listed 69 employees (including police and school officials) with incomes topping $100,000. The number has since grown to 306. Some city workers have also seen huge pay hikes in that period. In 2008, Abbotsford’s chief constable, Bob Rich, earned $156,000. Last year, he took home $206,000. At this point, landing one of these jobs is “like winning a lottery,” says Jason Clemens, executive vice-president of the Fraser Institute. The role of government, he adds, is providing services, not comfortable jobs with high pay. The gap between public and private sector wages may be even higher than the 12 per cent cited by the institute. When pensions are considered, it could be 20 per cent, says Bill Robson, president and CEO of the C.D. Howe Institute. Government workers, he adds, are accumulating “eye-popping wealth” through pension plans alone.
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The view of many labour experts that taxpayers can cover any budget shortfalls is muting the urgency of the problem. Across the country, payroll and pension obligations are set to continue rising at a stunning clip. The unfunded liability of the federal public service pension plan alone is slated to hit $300 billion this budget year. Eventually, something will have to give: either it’s the relentless demands of government workers, or the solvency of many Canadian jurisdictions.

Grant targets long-term Vernon infrastructure

By Staff Writer - Vernon Morning Star Updated: April 15, 2013 1:30 PM
The City of Vernon looking at infrastructure over the long-term.  The city has received a $336,000 federal gas tax grant for the sustainable infrastructure investment plan. It will identify means to increase revenues for asset replacement and identify opportunities to reduce costs. “Our city is a resilient, environmentally and financially sustainable community that attracts and retains families, business and industry,” said Mayor Rob Sawatzky. “Funding infrastructure renewal is essential to ensure a safe and functioning network of roads, sewers, and city-owned buildings. It is a key part of the future viability of the city and the services it provides.”

Steep cost to infrastructure

By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: March 29, 2013 1:00 AM

From P. 10 of March 5 Presentation

The City of Vernon’s infrastructure deficit could break the bank.  Council has been told that there currently isn’t the financial resources to come up with the $17 million a year needed to replace $78 million in roads, sidewalks and sewer lines. “Projected revenue is insufficient to cover planned expenditures,” said Dan Huang, a senior planner with Urban Systems. “Over time, you need to close this gap.” Presently, reserves are being depleted, there is insufficient borrowing capability and there are cash flow challenges with development cost charges. “Every city has this problem. Vernon is not alone,” said Coun. Bob Spiers. To prepare for the future, the city is working on an assessment management revenue plan as part of an overall initiative looking at infrastructure sustainability. Among the options to narrow the gap between revenue and costs are lobbying senior government for grants, financing alternatives, new development opportunities and changing levels of service. The city can also look at ways to extend the life of existing infrastructure through maintenance. “We want to get more out of our assets,” said Mark Dowhaniuk, the city’s infrastructure engineer. Some steps to generate revenue have already occurred with a 1.9 per cent tax increase this year being designated for infrastructure. Roads are the primary focus and an integrated transportation framework will be pursued over the summer. Mayor Rob Sawatzky admits Monday’s report presents some challenges. “Receiving this reminds me of taking cod liver oil as a kid. It’s good for you but it doesn’t taste very good,” he said. Spiers believes it’s critical for the city to separate what is necessary for maintaining operations within the community and items he deems to be a wish list. “Replacement and maintenance are of more importance than new and unsustainable ones,” he said. As part of the process looking at infrastructure, council will consider a 15-year capital plan and three-year capital implementation plan in October.
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Presentation re infrastructure Deficit: Agenda Package   (P.6-20) March 25
Agenda Package  March 5 (P.5-16)

Don Quixote Note:
Actual Quote was "Rehab'' Rather than 'replacement' 
"Replacement and maintenance are of more importance than new and unsustainable ones."
"Rehab and maintenance are of more importance than new and unsustainable ones."

Vernon faces a $78 million infrastructure deficit

By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Updated: March 11, 2013 12:08 PM
The City of Vernon has a huge hole to fill. Council was informed Monday that the city's infrastructure deficit is $78 million. "The plan is trying to come up with solutions that make it more affordable," said consultant Michael Trickey as he presented an asset management investment plan. Of that $78 million road upgrades account for $40 million. Council has been told that the ideal budget to deal with the infrastructure deficit is $17 million a year. "Right now, you are at the 40 per cent range of that," said Trickey of the $6.8 million the city spends annually. Work on the process will continue and council will consider a 15-year capital plan and three-year capital implementation plan in October. Look for more in Wednesday's Morning Star.
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P.10 of Agenda Package

• Agenda Package  (for Details)

Vernon councillor calling for cost cuts

By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: January 23, 2013 1:00 AM
A Vernon politician hopes his colleagues will reconsider a hike in taxes.  Presently, the city’s 2013 budget calls for a 4.2 per cent tax increase, or an additional $45 for the average household. “I hope it’s not where we end up,” said Coun. Bob Spiers, who would hope the overall figure can be reduced before final adoption of the budget occurs. “I’m not pleased with some of the projects we’re spending money on.” Specifically, Spiers opposes $2 million for 30th Avenue revitalization and $1 million for the Polson Greenway on 29th Street from 41st to 43rd avenues. “They are cosmetic. They are out of time and out of place,” he said. Of the 4.2 per cent tax increase, 2.3 per cent is for general city operations and 1.9 is designated for infrastructure replacement. “It’s necessary because we haven’t had a well thought out plan to deal with aging infrastructure,” said Mayor Rob Sawatzky. “It’s not a wish list. It’s a must-do list. Earlier maintenance and care saves money in the long run.” Some parking fees will be climbing to bolster revenue but some possible service cuts have been left on the sidelines. Among the programs that will remain are the collection of leaves and prunings. No decision has been made on withdrawing $150,000 in support for O’Keefe Ranch. “There’s a pending core services review. We want to make a decision that’s fully informed,” said Sawatzky of the need for more information. It’s anticipated council will give the budget bylaw three readings Jan. 28 and then a public input session will be held Feb. 8. The budget could be adopted Feb. 22 but Sawatzky admits the tax increase could still change. “There is always interest within council in trying to reduce it and it is the purview of council to meet and discuss it,” he said.

4.8% Tax Hike Discussed By Council

Written by Peter McIntyre  107.5 KISSFM Wednesday, 16 January 2013 15:40
  Several members of Vernon council support tax increases to upgrade the city's aging infrastructure. At the first of three special budget meetings at City Hall today, city staff recommended council raise taxes three percent, to build up funds for road and sewer projects. Another option is for a 1.9% hike for infrastructure. When you add other proposed spending increases, this year's tax hike could be 4.8 percent, which translates to an estimated $55 for the average homeowner. Councillor Brian Quiring doesn't think that's excessive. "We've inherited a tough situation here with the lack ofconsideration for our infrastructure, and we need to stop the bleeding. At 55 dollars a year, I think it's money well spent," Quiring told Kiss FM. Mayor Rob Sawatzky says he's also leaning toward a 3% infrastructure increase. "I think we probably need to follow the recommendation of our engineering staff. We could go with the lower percentage, but that leaves us at risk in other areas. We could have catastrophic events. W can have fires that we have not planned for, like the fire last summer at the Rise. That could have been a financial disaster for the city. We can always reduce taxes in the future." Councillor Bob Spiers --who has pushed for tax decreases in past years -- says he's keeping an open mind this time. "It's a matter of whether we are going to start out with either a 1.9% or 3% tax increase each and every year for the next ten years. It's a decision I don't think should be even contemplated until we end this budget discussion," Spiers told Kiss FM. Spiers is upset council isn't putting off what he calls "cosmetic projects" like the 2 million dollar 30th Avenue revitalization, and the Polson Greenway. "The ones that don't need to be done at this time, or even within the next ten years." Council members and city staff will hold an all day budget meeting Thursday, and from 9 to 12 on Friday, all open to the public. There was no public input on the first day.
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 Don Quixote Note:
$871,854 in  net CITY OF VERNON CHANGE REQUESTS(p.344-346).

• 2013-2017 Proposed Financial Plan - 28 MB

If all change requests that are required to be funded from taxation and change credits totaling approx $250,000 are accepted then the $871,854 will add another 3.54% to the tax revenue increase.

If the $250,000 in service reductions are not accepted then you can add another 1% to the tax increase.