(file photo/Vernon Matters Staff)

By Liam Verster

Official Community Plan, Transportation Plan

Workshop helps guide the development of Vernon’s new strategic plans

Sep 4, 2024 | 1:43 PM

Vernon council has been involved in some workshops as the city continues to develop two major planning documents.

Council participated in a Strategic Foresight Workshop at its Sept. 3 Committee of the Whole meeting as part of the ongoing work to draw up the Official Community Plan (OCP) and Transportation Plan (TP)

The workshop allowed council to explore how key focus areas of zoning, transit, housing and infrastructure, along with associated factors such as electrification, Indigenous resilience, emerging technologies, and population growth, could affect Vernon’s future.

“Workshops like these are critical in ensuring that we build a sustainable and thriving community,” Mayor Victor Cumming, said.

“By taking a deep dive into the expected external drivers of change that could dramatically shape our city’s future, we can make better informed decisions that balance growth, housing, and economic challenges. It’s about creating a roadmap that addresses the needs of today but also positions Vernon for a resilient and prosperous future.”

Election Results

Coldstream and area Conservative MLA-elect still not speaking with media, NDP candidate pleased with effort

16h ago

Point-In-Time Homeless Count

Homeless count planned in Vernon next year

16h ago

20 Weapons Seized

Weapons seized from Lake Country residence

18h ago

Findings from the workshop, as well as public feedback and ongoing technical studies, will be used to help guide the work in preparing the OCP and TP.

The second phase of the public engagement process will begin later in the fall. Details on the OCP and TP, the planning process, and how to get involved can be found at the city’s website.

The OCP and TP must be completed by December of 2025 to comply with provincial mandates.