Greater Vernon politicians want to ensure a cultural plan is something they can live with.
A previous long-term vision for culture was developed but not endorsed officially and that’s something the current members of the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee want to avoid.
“We want to look at whether there is room in the bylaw to encompass all potential uses,” said director Doug Dirk.
“If we don’t look at the structure and just go with needs and wants, there will be problems.”
A cultural plan is currently being developed, but there is some concern that aspects of the plan, such as facilities or programs, may not fit with fiscal realities.
“We need to get our house in order so we know what we can serve instead of finding out the house isn’t big enough for the family,” said Dirk.
Among the questions the committee must determine is whether financial grants will only be provided to cultural groups or if facilities will also be made available.
“The committee must be comfortable with the outer boundaries of what it wants to provide,” said Tannis Nelson, community development co-ordinator.
However, Nelson is urging committee members not to restrict what the cultural plan may look like.
“I would be worried if we pigeon-hole too much because some innovative ideas could come out of the plan.”
Director Mike Macnabb wants funding options for cultural amenities considered.
“It shouldn’t necessarily be the taxpayer on the hook for needs and wants of every group,” he said.
The process will include looking at what other communities do for arts.
“Are we investing enough? Are we investing too much?” said Juliette Cunningham, chairperson.
It has been decided that GVAC members will regularly be kept up to date on the development of the cultural plan.
“There’s no point spending $100,000 (on a study) and dragging everyone along to an end, and no one likes it,” said Cunningham.
