Youth leading climate action
Council received an update from Vernon’s Youth Climate Corps BC team, highlighting how six local youth are helping advance climate action projects across the community this summer. Building on the success of last year’s program, the initiative provides hands-on experience in climate leadership while supporting implementation of Vernon’s Climate Action Plan through local and regional partnerships.
Riding smart: RCMP shares e-bike and e-scooter rules
As e-bikes and electric scooters become increasingly popular, Council received a presentation from the RCMP on provincial rules, classifications and safety requirements. The presentation aims to help residents better understand where different devices can be used, applicable regulations and how to safely share roads, paths and public spaces.
Supporting seniors housing: variance permit open for public input
Council heard public feedback on a Development Variance Permit for a proposed 126-unit seniors supportive housing development at 5000 24 Street. The application seeks adjustments to landscaping buffer requirements around portions of the site and a reduction in the number of required parking spaces. The proposal is intended to support the development's design and operational needs while increasing supportive housing options for seniors in the community.
Vernon earns national recognition for budget excellence
Mayor Victor Cumming recognized the City's Finance Division for receiving the Government Finance Officers Association's Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for the 2026–2030 Financial Plan. The award recognizes municipalities that demonstrate excellence in budget preparation, transparency and communication, highlighting Vernon's commitment to financial accountability and public engagement.
New direction signs could improve trail connections
Council endorsed a pilot opportunity for the City's wayfinding program. Phase 1 of this pilot includes new signs along the active transportation corridor connecting Highway 6 and Village Green Shopping Centre via 29th and 30th Streets. The pilot project will help evaluate signage effectiveness before developing a city-wide implementation strategy.
Reclaimed water solutions
Administration updated Council on the collaborative work with the Province and City and RDNO staff to assess the feasibility of supplying reclaimed water to the Goose Lake Reservoir. This collaboration helps to address the growing water supply challenges associated with the current drought conditions and identifies next steps for long-term planning with potential amendments to the Liquid Waste Management Plan.
New building design policy supports housing innovation
As provincial building code changes allow certain multi-family residential buildings to be constructed with a single exit stairway, Council adopted a new policy educating the public and the development community that this option is not available within the City of Vernon until such time that all areas of the BC Building Code in related to firefighting capacity can be met.
Reviewing housing incentives and development cost charge waiver
Council directed Administration to undertake a comprehensive review of the City's housing policies and financial incentive programs in light of removing the current DCC waiver program from the DCC bylaw update.
Quarterly financial update highlights city performance
Council received the City's Second Quarter Financial Report, providing an overview of revenues, expenditures, and financial performance through the first half of 2026. The report helps Council monitor budget progress and identify emerging financial pressures or opportunities as the year continues.
Council supports flags of service and reconciliation
Council approved flying the Army, Navy and Air Force Veterans Flag and the Truth and Reconciliation Flag on the community flagpole .
Public Hearings to consider key planning and zoning changes
Following the regular meeting, Council reconvened for Public Hearings considering several planning-related bylaws, including amendments affecting the Polson Village Centre area and updates to landscaping and zoning regulations. These changes are intended to support growth, improve development processes, and align regulations with current community planning objectives.