No Questions On City Direction

It seems Greater Vernon’s business leaders are pleased with the direction of local politicians.

The leaders of the Regional District of North Okanagan, Coldstream, and Vernon presented their annual updates to about 70 Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce members Wednesday.

Vernon mayor Akbal Mund says he focused on the economic growth, and the city’s improved communications.

He says not one person asked him a question afterwards.

“From the lack of questions, I think everybody is satisfied that were heading in the right direction and the growth is good. The downtown core is changing and will continue to change probably over the next ten years. So I think people are excited about what’s happening,” Mund told Kiss FM.

Mund says building permits are up, and development is happening.

“We’re seeing some of that development. Over 25 million dollars worth of building permits have been issued this year alone, and over 100 new businesses have moved into the primary B-I-A (business improvement) area.”

Mund says building permits are the highest since 2006.

He says communications are another big area of improvement for the city.

He says its “dramatically improved” through their website.

“We tell people where their property taxes go. The engagement om various projects has been much better over the last year, especially using our award winning website.”

Coldstream Mayor Jim Garlick and RDNO chair Bob Fleming also spoke at the meeting.