OCP and Transportation Plan updates
Council received an update on the Official Community Plan (OCP) and Transportation Plan, highlighting future land use and major transportation projects in North Vernon, Harwood, East Hill, Mission Hill, and Jubilee Hill. The proposed land use designations aim to support a range of housing options through gentle density, transit-oriented development, and mixed-use areas. More information about both plans will be available at Open Houses on June 5 and 7 at Civic Memorial Park Community Classroom located at 3003 37th Avenue.
Quarterly update from the RCMP
The Vernon North Okanagan RCMP detachment presented a quarterly update to Council, covering policing services, key priorities, and statistics from January to March 2025. They also discussed the implementation of body-worn cameras, which are replacing digital recorders and helping improve operational efficiency.
Canada Day celebrations planned
The Vernon-Okanagan Inspired Community Events Society (VOICE) shared its plans for Canada Day celebrations at Polson Park, featuring free, community-focused events for all ages that celebrate local citizens and heritage. Be sure to mark your calendars and join the celebration on July 1. Stay tuned for more information closer to the event.
City to apply for wildfire resiliency grant
Council has authorized staff to apply for up to $100,000 in additional funding through the ongoing 2024 UBCM Community Resiliency Investment Grant. If successful, the grant funding will support ongoing efforts to reduce wildfire risks and enhance the community’s ability to prepare for and respond to emergencies.
Zoning Bylaw Amendments
Council approved moving forward with the next step in refining Zoning Bylaw 6000. These updates are intended to improve clarity, address community feedback and make zoning regulations more supportive of new development.
Council approves surcharge to accept online credit card payments
Council gave first, second, and third reading to Bylaw 6039 to amend the City’s Fees and Charges Bylaw. The amendment allows a surcharge to be applied to online payments made by credit card, expanding on a previously approved in-person surcharge. This model ensures the City recovers the cost of processing credit card payments, while alternative payment options—such as debit, cash, cheque, or online banking—remain available at no extra cost.