Coldstream’s role in the service reviews for parks and recreation is being clarified.
The review, which was a lengthy process, resulted in the restructuring of the Regional District of North Okanagan parks and recreation function.
While Coldstream had concerns about the previous structure of parks and recreation, Mayor Jim Garlick points out that Coldstream did not initiate the reviews.
“We have taken part but not had a chance to start any of them,” said Garlick, noting that the first set of 19 reviews on value for money were initiated by the City of Vernon.
The parks and rec review was dropped by Vernon only to be restarted by Areas B and C, Garlick explains. When the three-year time limit ran out on that review, Area C renewed the review process.
“This entire review has taken far longer and more effort than first thought,” said Garlick of frustrations that include financial information being provided in bits and pieces over the past year.
But as more information becomes available, it is clarifying the function for the member areas.
“We are getting a better picture of the costs and levels of service written and actual,” said Garlick.
“If nothing else it is getting information better organized for the service to be better managed in the future, no matter the structure.”
