An additional or counterflow lane on the Bennett Bridge remains a key infrastructure priority among Okanagan mayors (Image Credit: Vernon Matters)

By Vernon Matters staff

Calling for provincial help

Regional mayors outline priorities

Apr 3, 2026 | 9:01 AM

Regional mayors have highlighted their most pressing concerns and needs from the province.

A media release from the Mayors of the Okanagan Thursday, April 2, stated a priority remained public safety, especially increased investment in crown prosecutors in the Interior.

One aspect highlights a lack of a voluntary treatment centre for those experiencing mental health challenges and they’ve suggested the under-utilized correctional facility in Oliver, could be such an option.

The mayors of Kelowna, Vernon, West Kelowna and Penticton have called for major investments in public safety to stop the revolving door of repeat violent offenders and property crime.

” Increasing Crown resources in Kelowna, Vernon, and Penticton will improve caseload management, strengthen bail hearings, and support more consistent case management,” the statement read. “Additionally, we need to see increased support to address ongoing shortfalls in policing resources across our communities to ensure officers have the capacity to respond effectively.”

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Other key projects highlighted by the mayors involved infrastructure projects:

• Clement Crosstown Connector
• New Kelowna Regional Transit Centre
• Westlake Road/Boucherie Road interchange project
• Additional or counterflow lanes on Bennett Bridge
• Airport/Gateway intersection upgrade
• Commonwealth Road intersection upgrade

The mayors also agreed on the need for continued investment in wildfire mitigation and preparedness. This includes expanded FireSmart programming, support for controlled burns, and sustained funding for emergency operations centre readiness.