A member of Vernon’s family is getting a birthday present.
Council has approved purchasing a plaque to present to Modesto, Calif. to commemorate the 30-year sister city relationship between the two communities.
“Thirty years is a long time for a relationship like this,” said Coun. Jack Gilroy, chairperson of the sister city committee.
“People from there come here every year and people from here go there.”
The plaque will be presented when a delegation of Vernon residents go to Modesto in May 2012.
The cost of the plaque will be about $500.
Airport Development Proceeds
A development project has taken flight at the Vernon Airport.
Council has approved a development variance permit, which deals with property setbacks, so 10 buildings with hangars and residential units can be constructed at the airport.
The issue had been previously put on hold because there was some concern the buildings would create wind turbulence for aircraft.
The city-owned Captain Bailey Way Development Corporation, which is pursuing the project, says there should not be a problem.
“When Transport Canada develops their standards and guidelines, they take into consideration safe distances and heights of structures that can be built at airports and the affect that they can have on airport operations,” said John Tigchelaar, corporation president.
Local Youth Recognized
A passion for the environment and her community has earned a Vernon youth a special honour.
Jade Freeman has been presented with the Communities in Bloom special mention award for founding the Trees Make a Difference program. The program encourages residents to plant trees.
“Trees make a difference,” said Freeman as she was recognized by city council Monday.
Freeman started the initiative in Grade 2 and she is now in Grade 6.
“She is a huge asset to our community,” said Coun. Buffy Baumbrough.
Union Reaches Deal
There is a new contract between the City of Vernon and Vernon Civic Employees’ Union.
The agreement includes a 1.5 per cent increase per year between Jan. 1, 2012 and Dec. 31, 2013.
“These terms are in line with other municipal settlements in the Okanagan,” states a press release from the city and the union.
