The City of Vernon will consider whether more needs to be done to preserve the Commonage.
The North Okanagan Natural Areas Preservation Committee recently asked council to create a land use plan for the Commonage and to bring zoning for the area in line with the rest of the city.
“We will refer it to staff and on what may or may not be necessary,” said Mayor Wayne Lippert.
Under existing zoning, which dates back to when the area was still part of the regional district, rural subdivision is permitted even without the variance permit.
While some residents are concerned about how development may proceed in the Commonage, city officials state that there is a process in place.
“That area is in the official community plan,” said Leon Gous, chief administrative officer.
Committee Reviews Wages
A team of citizens will determine whether Vernon’s politicians deserve a wage hike.
Current council has appointed a four-person committee to look at remuneration and make possible recommendations.
The committee consists of former Coldstream councillor Jack Borden, architect Bob McDonnell, accountant Pat Lett and Joanne Weatherill with Briteland.
If the recommendation includes a change in pay, that increase does not come into effect until after November’s civic election and does not impact current council members.
Coun. Bob Spiers would like to see remuneration remain tied to cost of living.
“I’m hoping they come back with recommendations fitting the (economic) times we’re in,” he said.
