Kin Race Track will no doubt get lots of looks.
The former Vernon horse racing facility and home of four softball diamonds, two of which have lights, will be under scrutiny as the City of Vernon begins the process to consider the feasibility of, and potential locations for, new recreation facilities.
The race track had been the subject of an eight-year court battle between the city, Regional District of North Okanagan and Okanagan Equestrian Society that officially ended last week when the society withdrew its appeal of a B.C. Supreme Court 2018 ruling in favour of the other two sides.
RELATED: Vernon Kin Race Track appeal abandoned
The city unanimously approved a short-term action plan from Greater Vernon Recreation Services to carry out the high-priority, short-term recommendations from the Greater Vernon Recreation Master Plan, and move forward with an analysis to consider the feasibility of, and potential sites for, new recreation facilities identified in the master plan.
Coun. Brian Quiring excused himself from the discussions due to a potential conflict of interest.
“New recreation facilities would include a new indoor aquatic facility, gymnasiums, fitness spaces, including a walking track, program spaces and to consider future enhancement of the current aquatic centre,” said Doug Ross, manager of recreation services for the city.
RELATED: Vernon fully endorses recreation master plan
Council approved spending up to $100,000 for the proposed study.
“I’m glad we’re heading in this direction,” said Coun. Scott Anderson. “There has been an overwhelming response from the public to see a new pool built.”
Ross also presented the short-term plan to the District of Coldstream, which has given its support, and will present to regional district Electoral Area B and C directors in February.
The master recreation plan was built on input and engagement with the citizens of Greater Vernon. The plan contains 30 recommendations organized under four categories of service delivery, programming, general infrastructure and asset management, and recreation facilities.
roger@vernonmorningstar.com
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