A potential site for a new cultural complex in Vernon has been publicly disclosed.
City council announced Monday that it supports in principle the concept of an art gallery on the old Vernon Flower Shop property on 31st Avenue.
“We would see it as anchoring the cultural district,” said Dauna Kennedy Grant, Vernon Public Art Gallery executive director.
The city purchased the land for $315,000 in July, but a possible use had not been confirmed until Monday.
Council’s decision triggers the gallery’s ability to solicit planning and design dollars for a new facility from the federal and provincial government.
It hasn’t been decided if a public referendum would also be needed for a new gallery.
A stand-alone gallery would cost about $5 million to construct and the price tag would increase if the Greater Vernon Museum was added.
Discussions continue between the museum and gallery about possible collaboration.
It’s hoped a new gallery could be open by 2015.
Look for more details in Wednesday’s Morning Star.
