Highlights of the January 26 Council Meeting

News
Public Notice

Bylaw Jurisdiction and Collaborative Enforcement
Council received an update on Officer jurisdiction, authority, and collaborative enforcement, including how Bylaw Compliance Officers respond to calls on public and private property and when coordination with the RCMP is required. Calls for service in the downtown Business Improvement Area decreased 14.7 per cent, with 763 calls in 2025 compared to 895 in 2024. Of these, 386 involved the unhoused population—a 12 per cent decrease from last year. The update also highlighted ongoing community safety efforts, including public education and partnerships with the RCMP, Downtown Vernon Association, and Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce. To date, the RCMP and Bylaw have completed 10 joint patrols, directly addressing emerging issues and strengthening community relationships.

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Vernon Fire Rescue Services Year in Review 
Council received an update on Vernon Fire Rescue Services and Emergency Management, outlining the department’s 2025 accomplishments, major training and preparedness initiatives, strengthened regional partnerships, and continued progress in prevention, response, and Emergency Support Services.

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SILGA Convention 2026 – Attendance and Call for Resolutions
Council received updates related to the 2026 Southern Interior Local Government Association Convention in Revelstoke, including the requirement for a Council resolution to authorize attendance under the City’s Travel and Expense Policy, as well as key deadlines for submitting resolutions. The information outlined upcoming timelines for Council endorsement and noted that resolutions approved by SILGA are forwarded to the Union of BC Municipalities for consideration.  

Two draft resolutions were added to the Council agenda which Council endorsed and will be submitted to SILGA.

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2026–2030 Financial Plan Bylaw
Council gave first, second and third readings to the 2026–2030 Financial Plan Bylaw, which establishes the City’s five-year financial plan and revenue policy as required under the Community Charter. The plan will return to Council for consideration of adoption on February 9.

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