Council reviews the OCP
Big steps are being taken toward shaping the future of Vernon! This week, Council advanced its review of the draft Official Community Plan (OCP) - a bold 20-year roadmap for how our city will grow and evolve. With space for 20,000 new residents and 11,000 new homes by 2045, the updated OCP sets the stage for a vibrant, sustainable, and connected Vernon.
Council has directed Administration to prepare the OCP for bylaw consideration. The draft plan will be brought forward for first and second reading on October 14, followed by a Public Hearing on November 10, giving residents a chance to have their voices heard. Final adoption is targeted for December 15, keeping the City on track to meet provincial deadlines.
Residents are encouraged to participate in the upcoming Public Hearing to provide feedback and help shape the final version of the plan. For more information on the draft Official Community Plan, including how to get involved, please visit engagevernon.ca/ocp-tp.
Long-term care services in Vernon
Interior Health provided an update on long-term care in Vernon, noting there are currently 677 long-term care beds available for adults with complex health needs.
Home support services in the North Okanagan are also seeing significant growth, particularly in rural areas like Lumby, Falkland, and parts of Enderby. Many residents are choosing to age at home, prompting the launch of a successful overnight home support pilot in Vernon. The program, which began in January, has been a success and helped more people remain safely in their homes, while giving respite for caregivers.
Transit Expansion Request for 2026/27
Council authorized staff to sign the 2026/27 Transit Improvement Program Memorandum of Understanding with BC Transit, reaffirming the City’s request for:
- 3,500 additional service hours on Routes 3, 5, and 9
- The launch of Route 10 – Middleton Mountain
Funding is included in the City’s 2025–2029 Financial Plan, and these requests are subject to approval by BC Transit and the District of Coldstream.
Read the full report
Restorative Justice Services Annual Report
Council received a presentation from CMHA Vernon & District on the 2024 Annual Report for Restorative Justice Services. The program continues to expand its impact, serving 2,727 individuals to date. It offers an alternative to the traditional justice system focused on healing, accountability, and community connection. The program supports both youth (ages 12–17) and adults (18+), with growing integration of mental health services to enhance recovery and repair harm.
Liquor Primary Licence for Lincoln Lanes
Council supported a liquor primary license application for Vernon Striking Bowling Ltd. (Lincoln Lanes) at 3510 25 Avenue. The license permits liquor service for up to 100 people in the main seating area and birthday room, with hours set from 12 p.m. to 12 a.m. daily. Next, the City will notify the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch of Council’s support, allowing the application to move forward for final review and approval.
Update on cooperative housing – Hesperia Lands
Council received an update on the October 7, 2024, motion to explore cooperative housing on five acres of City-owned land in the Hesperia area. While the Co-op Housing Federation of BC is currently unavailable to pursue the project due to other commitments, staff are exploring alternative development opportunities. A future update will be brought forward as more information becomes available.