Presentation from the Social Planning Council for the North Okanagan
Council received a presentation from The Social Planning Council of the North Okanagan which outlined current community needs, emerging social trends, and opportunities to strengthen partnerships and support social development across the region.
Digital upgrades to City services
Council received an update on several digital improvements, including the launch of Let’s Talk Vernon, the City's new online engagement platform. The City also refreshed its Event Planning and Facility Booking webpages to improve navigation and modernize forms, and introduced a new City of Vernon Map offering easier access to services and property information. All upgrades were completed within existing budgets, and the North Okanagan Map will remain active until the RDNO launches its updated platform.
Fuel management funding
Council received an update that the Forest Enhancement Society of BC has approved the final $125,000 needed to complete fuel management treatments in the Ellison area, bringing the total treated Crown land to 72 hectares. The remaining work, to be finished by March 31, 2027, supports ongoing efforts to reduce wildfire risk in a high-risk wildland-urban interface area. The treatments complement recent projects by BC Timber Sales and BC Parks and are expected to reduce fire intensity and improve conditions for wildfire suppression and firefighter safety.
Hesperia Lands subdivision and rezoning
Council approved subdividing the Hesperia Lands into a 24.91 acre northern parcel and a 44.28 acre remainder. Council also supported initiating rezoning of the northern parcel from Multi-Unit Acreage (MUA) to Multi-Unit Small Scale (MUS) to enable future low density residential development. The southern portion will remain in the City’s land inventory under its current zoning. Up to $15,000 from the Land Sale Reserve was approved to cover subdivision and rezoning costs.
Climate Action Plan review
Council received an update on the review of the City’s Climate Action Plan. Technical studies are underway to assess greenhouse gas trends, progress over the past five years, and future mitigation and adaptation options. These studies will inform updates to the plan, with a full review expected to be considered in 2027 once this work is complete.
Development Approvals Program Grant application
Council authorized Administration to apply to UBCM’s Local Government Development Approvals Program for funding to enhance the City’s development approval processes. If awarded, the grant could support initiatives such as a pre-application meeting process, standardized housing designs, and a lot identification tool.
Council endorses Heritage Restoration Grant
Council approved a Heritage Restoration Grant of up to $5,000 to support replacement of the rear deck at 3001 26 Street, a designated heritage property. The project includes rebuilding the failing stairwell and posts, and replacing the decking and railing. The application meets all program requirements, and funding will come from the City’s Heritage Resources Reserve Account.