Upgrades to local parks will only happen if senior government gets involved.
Regional District of North Okanagan staff insist that a proposed $274,259 will not be spent at Kal Beach, Kin Beach and the recreation complex if $740,233 in provincial funding does not materialize.
“If we don’t get it, we can’t act,” said Trafford Hall, administrator.
The provincial grant would require RDNO providing 20 per cent of the total budget, or $274,259.
“The money is contingent on a successful grant application,” said Tannis Nelson, community development co-ordinator.
However, that’s not sitting well with one Greater Vernon Advisory Committee member because many of the projects are focused on the disabled.
“I’d like to see us address these issues,” said director Juliette Cunningham of people in wheelchairs or walkers.
“People are left out of the loop in terms of accessibility.”
At Kal Beach, a $334,950 project is proposed.
“It would include improvements to the washrooms and there would be a boardwalk enabling mobility-challenged people to access the pier and concession,” said Nelson.
The plan calls for $589,200 in washroom accessibility enhancements at Kin Beach and Paddlewheel Park.
It’s also proposed that $90,342 be spent at the Vernon Recreation Complex for fitness equipment, a new pool lift for the disabled and a playground for the preschool and tots program.
