Project To Make Vernon More Child-Youth Friendly

Vernon is looking to become a more youth and child friendly city.

Long range planner Cleo Corbett says they’ve been working on it since 2008 when it was included in the official community plan.

She says a 10-thousand dollar BC Healthy Communities grant will be used to take it to the next level.

“How do we analyze those policies, look at what we’re doing well, analyze the gaps, address those, and look at strengthening our policies so we can be a more child and youth friendly city,” Corbett tells Kiss FM.

Corbett says public engagement will be part of the process which should produce a final report to council by next March.

“The money (grant) will be used to hire a coordinator and also for public engagement and hosting some events so we can engage the community in the discussion.”

Corbett says the improvements could be in many areas.

“We’re looking at everything from transportation, to housing, to urban design; how our public spaces are designed and how could we make those more acceptable,” adds Corbett.

Councillor Juliette Cunningham says Vernon has been implementing child and youth friendly initiatives for some time.

“In May 2012, the City adopted the Children’s Charter where Council declared that we would recognize them as equal citizens and engage them to actively participate in the decisions that affect them. The Child friendly project ensures their voices are heard, respected and valued by their local government,” says Cunningham.

UBCO students and the Institute of Community Engaged research will assist with the project.