Vernon council reconfirms opposition to marina plans
The City of Vernon continues to be opposed to a proposed marina on Okanagan Lake.
On Monday, council reaffirmed decisions in 2004 and 2001 that South Bay not be used by the Outback strata on Eastside Road for boat storage. The primary concern is the general public would not be able to use the bay.
"The bay belongs to all citizens," said Coun. Patrick Nicol.
"This bay has been a special area for citizens for years. We can't deny people access to the bay," added Coun. Mary-Jo O'Keefe.
The Outback has applied to the provincial government to construct a 72-slip marina in South Bay.
Besides possibly restricting public access, some neighbours say a marina could negatively impact spawning kokanee and water quality.
While the city identified the location of a marina in the adjacent Quarry Bay during the development permit stage for the Outback in 2004, officials have previously stated the agreement with the strata is voluntary and not legally binding.
Council will write letters opposing the marina to a number of provincial cabinet ministers and Vernon-Monashee MLA Eric Foster.
"He has a relationship with all of these ministers and he can intervene on behalf of the city," said Coun. Juliette Cunningham.
Council was asked to take action Monday by resident Kim Nasipayko.
"We want the city to stand up for the citizens of the community," she said.
No one from the Outback could be reached for comment.
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