It’s unknown if Vernon politicians will embrace a fundamental shift in how the city operates.
KPMG will present a draft final report on the core services review to council Monday.
“It’s an interesting document to study and there are some opportunities to reduce expenses and increase revenue,” said Coun. Bob Spiers.
Mayor Rob Sawatzky doesn’t expect any decisions will be made Monday.
“There are a number of opportunities identified but a number of them have roadblocks and difficulties implementing them,” he said.
“We need to get more information first and we need to know the consequences for other parts of the organization.”
Among KPMG’s options are weaning O’Keefe Ranch off city support, amalgamating Greater Vernon, contracting economic development and tourism to the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce, outsource the concession at Wesbild Centre, contract out bylaw enforcement staffing and eliminating irrigation and reducing mowing frequency along city-maintained boulevards and linear trails.
There are two scenarios proposed for Civic Arena. One would see the facility replaced with a second ice surface at Wesbild Centre, while the other calls simply for closure of Civic Arena because Armstrong’s NorVal Centre is drawing away users.
KPMG also suggests the city can make some recommendations to the Regional District of North Okanagan. They include no longer supporting the Caetani Cultural Centre and using social media to promote recreational programs.
Sawatzky anticipates that it could be six weeks before it’s clear how city council will proceed.
Spiers won’t forecast how aggressive his council colleagues will be in accepting KPMG’s report.
“The implementation of the recommendations will require political will and we will see if it’s there,” he said.
