Council advances Long-Term Cost Review for 580 Commonage Road
At a Special Council Meeting on April 1, 2026, Council approved moving forward with a lifecycle costing analysis for the proposed development at 580 Commonage Road. The analysis will assess long-term infrastructure, servicing, and operational costs associated with the project. A qualified consultant will complete the work in accordance with municipal asset management best practices. The report is expected to be presented to Council in the next few months. Funding of up to $50,000 has been allocated from reserves to support the analysis. The developer will also have an opportunity to review the findings prior to Council’s consideration.
View the agenda and read the full report
Council received the following Administrative updates:
- Celebrating completion of a new Cricket Pitch in Vernon
The new cricket pitch at DND Athletic Park (1415 Mission Road) is now complete, enhancing the park’s recreational amenities and supporting the continued growth of cricket in Vernon. To celebrate, the North Okanagan Cricket Club will host a tournament and grand opening on April 19 at 10:00 a.m. The event will bring together players, families, and community members to mark the occasion. The event will highlight the importance of dedicated sport infrastructure while recognizing the growing interest in cricket across the region. - Urban Forest Renewal at Kin Beach Park
Following a successful grant application to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) and the Government of Canada, the Kin Beach Park Tree Replacement Planting Project is now scheduled for installation. For public safety, Kin Beach will be closed to the public from April 20 through April 22 while site preparation and tree planting are completed. The project will enhance long-term park comfort by increasing shade and strengthening climate resilience, reinforcing the City’s commitment to environmental sustainability. - Moving transit forward: fare review update
The City is participating in a BC Transit‑led fare review in collaboration with regional partners, including the Regional District of North Okanagan and the District of Coldstream. The review will assess the current transit fare structure and explore potential updates, with a focus on affordability, ridership, revenue sustainability, and fare design. Discussions will also include opportunities with government partners, such as free transit options for youth. A kickoff meeting was held on April 9, 2026, and administration will report back to Council in early summer, with implementation anticipated in April 2027, subject to partner approvals. - 43 Avenue improvements: construction update
Construction on the 43 Avenue Corridor Improvement Project is progressing with the installation of deep utilities now underway. Temporary traffic signals are in place at the intersection of 43 Avenue and Alexis Park Drive as part of the traffic control plan. Project teams for both the 43 Avenue corridor and the Active Living Centre continue to coordinate construction activities and site access, with substantial completion anticipated by the end of July 2026. - Investing in cemetery infrastructure: irrigation upgrades
Upgrades to the irrigation main at Pleasant Valley Cemetery are underway as part of the Cemetery Irrigation System Upgrades project. Work began in March and is scheduled for completion in May 2026. The project addresses deficiencies in the aging irrigation system, which is prone to failures and excessive water use. These improvements align with the City of Vernon’s Master Cemetery Plan by enhancing system reliability, improving efficiency, and supporting water conservation. - Playground renewal at Sawicki Park
Renewal of the playground at Sawicki Park is scheduled to begin in late April, with completion anticipated by late May 2026 as part of the Parks Infrastructure Renewal Program. During construction, the playground will be temporarily closed to ensure public safety. The project will modernize play equipment and improve accessibility, supporting safe, inclusive, and welcoming park spaces for families and children in the community.
Downtown Clean Team extended at reduced service level
Council approved extending the Downtown Clean Team Program from October 1 to December 31, 2026, at a reduced service level of 60 per cent capacity, operating three days per week to reflect lower seasonal demand. The extension of this pilot program will require an additional $34,400, funded from the Prior Year Unexpended Uncommitted Balance, with fleet rental costs remaining consistent with previously approved options, while longer‑term program decisions will be considered through future budget deliberations.
Airport lease modernization: consultation update
Administration has completed consultation with airport tenants following Council direction, gathering feedback through surveys, in‑person meetings, and individual discussions. The process was constructive and highlighted strong tenant support for a clearer, more consistent lease framework, with an emphasis on longer‑term certainty, transparent communication, and phased implementation of any rate changes. The feedback will inform an updated lease template, lease term framework, and phased rate strategy, which Administration will bring forward to Council with recommendations, including a tailored approach to tenant transition and negotiation.
Additional Administrative reports
Council received a number of administrative reports, including information on the 2026 tax rates, the Downtown Vernon Association budget, regional water service bylaw consent, Climate Action Advisory Committee correspondence, and appointments for the 2026 general local election.
Okanagan Landing sewer connection charges adopted
Council adopted the Okanagan Landing Sewer Area No. 6 Connection Charge Bylaw No. 6055, establishing sewer connection charges to recover the capital cost of recently constructed sewer infrastructure in the area. The bylaw outlines how and when connection charges apply, including an option for eligible property owners to pay the charges annually over time, supporting a fair and structured transition to municipal sewer service.