By Pete McIntyre

Options for recreation facilities discussed behind closed doors

Jan 22, 2020 | 12:35 PM

Options for an active living centre have been discussed behind closed doors by local politicians.

An in-camera meeting was held at Kal Tire Place Tuesday involving council reps from Vernon, and also believed to involve members from Coldstream and the Regional District of North Okanagan.

No details about the meeting are being released by the City of Vernon, likely due to land issues being discussed.

When contacted about the meeting by Vernon Matters, Christy Poirier, manager of communications with the City of Vernon, said she had “not been given any public information at this time.”

A consultant earlier proposed three options for new facilities based on public input, including one with a 50- metre pool, a double gymnasium, walking-running track and fitness centre at the Kin Race Track site on 43rd Avenue, with an estimated cost of $78 million.

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Cheaper options are for a 50-metre pool at the Kin Race Track site and renovating the existing aquatic centre in the Vernon Recreation Complex to keep the current 25-metre pool.

The third option, estimated at $59 million, calls for fitting the 50-metre pool onto the existing Vernon Recreation Complex site, and replacing the Halina Centre and the Centennial outdoor rink.

The city’s Director of Recreation Services Doug Ross, said earlier, once a feasibility study is complete, a report will recommend whether it’s best to build new spaces at one time, or do the project in phases over a number of years.

“The report will also assist Greater Vernon Recreation to identify a balance between what the community wants and needs, and what the community can afford,” Ross said.

by Pete McIntyre

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