Vernon Council has returned from the 2025 Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) convention in Victoria, where members of Council and senior staff took part in a full week of advocacy, dialogue, and collaboration with provincial leaders and municipal peers. The focus was on advancing several key priorities that are critical to Vernon’s growth, livability and long-term resilience.
During UBCM, Vernon Council met with key provincial ministers responsible for housing, transportation, finance, forestry and environmental stewardship to ensure Vernon’s voice was heard on the issues that matter most to the community.
“UBCM is a valuable opportunity to bring Vernon’s voice directly to provincial leaders,” said Mayor Victor Cumming. “This year, we made a strong case for solutions that reflect Vernon’s unique needs, from transit innovation and housing tools to environmental sustainability. We’re returning with stronger relationships and a clearer path to advancing the priorities that are vital to our residents.”
Housing takes centre stage
A highlight of the advocacy was Vernon Council’s meeting with the Honourable Christine Boyle, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs, where housing supply, zoning challenges and necessary municipal tools were discussed.
Vernon is currently facing a serious affordable housing shortage, with a rental vacancy rate hovering around 1%, which is far below what is considered healthy. This shortage affects not only residents but also the local economy and overall community well-being.
While housing responsibility primarily lies with the provincial and federal governments, Vernon Council is committed to contributing to addressing the crisis through innovative local solutions. Earlier this summer, Council established the Non-Market Housing Land Task Force, comprising Mayor Victor Cumming, Councillor Kari Gares, and Councillor Brian Guy. This task force is focused on advocating for the contribution of public land, both provincially and federally owned, for future affordable housing projects within Vernon’s city limits.
“Our task force is working closely with senior government partners to identify opportunities to unlock public land for affordable housing,” said Mayor Cumming. “We’re ready to collaborate on planning, approvals, and fast-tracking projects that meet Vernon’s housing needs.”
Other key discussions
Council also met with the Honourable Mike Farnworth, Minister of Transportation and Transit, and explored opportunities to improve local transportation infrastructure and better align provincial support with Vernon’s unique transit needs. The conversation included a focus on innovative transit solutions that would increase frequency and efficiency for communities of our size.
In a meeting with the Honourable Brenda Bailey, Minister of Finance, Council raised concerns about the impact of provincial vacancy tax legislation on recreational second homes in Vernon. A more tailored approach was requested—one that considers the minimal effect these properties have on local housing availability. Council encouraged the Province to explore alternative taxation models that better reflect local housing dynamics and help avoid unintended regional impacts.
Vernon Council also met with the Honourable Randene Neill, Minister of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship, to emphasize the importance of water as a foundational resource in the Okanagan and to highlight the City’s ongoing commitment to sustainability. The conversation reinforced Vernon’s leadership in regional water management and restoration efforts, and the importance of continued provincial collaboration to support long-term water security.
Beyond ministerial meetings, Council members participated in voting sessions on UBCM resolutions, panel discussions, and regional networking events designed to strengthen collaboration across B.C. municipalities.
Council and City Administration will continue to follow up on action items and opportunities raised during the week to maintain momentum and turn advocacy into results for Vernon residents.