City of Vernon electric vehicle (submitted photo / City of Vernon)

By Kevin Rothwell

Good for one good for all

Vernon climate action gets warm regional support

May 6, 2021 | 5:30 AM

Vernon’s recently adopted climate action plan is getting a positive reception from the Regional Growth Management Advisory Committee (RGMAC).

The committee is commending the work done to get the plan together and will recommend to the Regional District of North Okanagan (RDNO), that the organizations work co-operatively toward implementation of programs and projects with a regional dynamic.

The city spent two years in extensive consultation and planning to bring the climate action blueprint together.

RGMAC is recommending to the regional district that three initiatives be implemented in 2021-2022.

• Create and implement policies and programs that create a network for charging infrastructure to support the transition to electric vehicles.
• Enable and support the enhancement and expansion of the transit network and alternative mobility options.
• Incorporate climate considerations (emission reduction opportunities and adaptations for our future climate) into design, maintenance, and replacement of infrastructure.

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RDNO is also being advised that actions which require a regional approach and those that could be implemented locally be forwarded to the member municipalities and First Nations for their consideration and action.

The climate action plan is being circulated to all RDNO member municipalities with items highlighted that can be worked on by individual governments, and those that make more sense for a regional approach.

A motion from Area ‘B’ Director Bob Fleming was passed, to recommend that RDNO, coordinate charging station locations, and investigate any possible grant opportunities.’

Coldstream councillor Ruth Hoyte inquired if there has been any move to apply as a region for provincial active transportation funding.

“I wouldn’t say that there has been a concerted effort to apply for grants jointly, so I think there is lots of opportunity,” Laura Franks, RDNO Regional Planning Project Manager, stated. “I know our rural areas have been working with MOTI (Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure) on creating pathways and bike lanes within their right of way, and they have been fairly supportive of that.”