A popular winter activity could get a facelift.
The City of Vernon is seeking a federal grant to revitalize the Centennial Outdoor Rink at the Vernon Recreation Complex.
“A lot of kids use it,” said Coun. Dalvir Nahal.
The upgrades would include replacing the boards and the lights.
The grant being sought is for 50 per cent funding of $80,000.
While she supports improving the current facility, Nahal is also looking long-term.
“I’d love to see an outdoor rink like they have in Kelowna. The ideal location would be where Civic Arena is,” she said.
The city has not determined what will happen with Civic once ice activities move to Kal Tire Place.
Air service denied
Vernon supports tackling air pollution but it won’t be locked into anything formal.
The city has told the Regional District of North Okanagan that it’s willing to collaborate on ways to address air quality, but it has turned down an opportunity to join a regional function.
“Everybody would have to be in the service before I would support it,” said Coun. Juliette Cunningham.
All jurisdictions, except for Coldstream, have refused to join a function dealing with air quality.
Mayor Akbal Mund says a function currently doesn’t make sense when other communities have different burning regulations than Vernon.
“If we had similar bylaws, it would be easier to work together.”
Pollen boosters
Efforts are underway to support the environment and bees.
Vernon council has embraced a request from Okanagan Landing Elementary students not to cut down milkweed by Marshall Field because the plants are key pollinators for bees.
“We also approve plantings for (development) projects and we should encourage perennials that act as pollinators,” said Coun. Juliette Cunningham.
Tiny houses reviewed
A new trend in housing is gaining interest.
Vernon council has instructed staff to investigate the tiny home development proposed by the First Nations Friendship Centre and the associated issues of zoning and building and development provisions.
“They fill a real niche in the affordable housing sector,” said Coun. Catherine Lord.