It was no surprise Wednesday that most Regional District of North Okanagan directors didn’t want to fund Canada Day celebrations in Vernon’s Polson Park.
After all, there are also July 1 festivities in Armstrong, Enderby and Lumby and those respective jurisdictions direct finances towards those activities attended by their citizens.
However, what was disappointing was the push-back to contribute $2,000 to the Polson Park event from the two electoral areas in Greater Vernon.
“I contribute to the BX-Swan Lake fireworks display (at Halloween),” said Mike Macnabb, BX-Silver Star director.
That may be the case, and Macnabb deserves praise for supporting the fireworks, but Macnabb must consider that a significant number of his residents, and particularly young families, take part in the Canada Day celebrations in Polson Park.
Bob Fleming, BX-Swan Lake director, questioned why taxpayers are putting money towards the event but consider that Canada Day is organized by volunteers and what price do we put on celebrating our love of country? Isn’t something that brings residents together in a positive manner something that should be supported?
It should also be pointed out that the electoral areas’ portion of the $2,000 is minor given that Vernon will pick up about 65 per cent of the tab and there will be a financial contribution from Coldstream and the other RDNO jurisdictions (the motion passed in a weighted vote).
In the end, Greater Vernon is made up of four jurisdictions, each with their distinct qualities. But when it comes to some matters, we are one overall community and that includes Canada Day.
Hopefully the electoral area directors will decide to wave the flag next year.
