The City of Vernon, District of Coldstream and Regional District of North Okanagan (RDNO) Electoral Areas B and C have established a new recreation ‘fee for service’ agreement that continues to support shared access to recreation services and facilities across Greater Vernon.
Under the agreement, Coldstream and Electoral Areas B and C contribute operational funding for recreation services within the City of Vernon, including the new Active Living Centre, and the Lavington Pool in Coldstream. In return, residents of participating communities receive the same user rates as Vernon residents, along with equal access to recreation facilities, services, and early program registration.
With the addition of the Active Living Centre, annual contributions from the District of Coldstream and RDNO Electoral Areas B and C will increase from $1.51 million in 2026 to:
- 2027: $1.74 million
- 2028: $1.99 million
- 2029: $2.05 million
“Recreation facilities and programs are an important part of what makes Greater Vernon a healthy and connected community,” said Vernon Mayor Victor Cumming. “This agreement supports continued collaboration between our communities and helps ensure residents continue to have access to quality recreation opportunities and services throughout the region.”
“We thank the City of Vernon, Electoral Area Directors and respective Administrations for working together on this agreement,” said Coldstream Mayor Ruth Hoyte. “Recreation is an important aspect to Coldstream residents, and we are looking forward to continued access to this vital service.”
“This agreement reflects the collaborative approach that’s needed to support recreation services across Greater Vernon,” stated Bob Fleming, Director of RDNO Electoral Area B. “By working together, we can ensure residents in Electoral Area B and C continue to benefit from high-quality facilities and programs, including the new Active Living Centre, in a way that is both sustainable and fair for all communities.”
“Electoral Area residents use Vernon’s recreation facilities for programs, activities, and community connection,” said Amanda Shatzko, Director of RDNO Electoral Area C. “This agreement ensures our rural areas continue to have equitable access to services nearby. It’s an important step in maintaining strong regional partnerships and supporting recreation opportunities now and into the future.”
The new agreement commences on January 1, 2027 and remains in place through December 31, 2029, with the opportunity to negotiate future terms. The City will utilize the annual contribution to offset the operating costs of recreation facilities and services, including the Halina Centre, Lavington and Lakeview pools, Kal Tire Place, and the Active Living Centre.