Residents explore the area above Foothills proposed for a park. (photo submitted)

Residents explore the area above Foothills proposed for a park. (photo submitted)

Vernon park process begins

GVAC has decided to include the concept of a Foothills park in the development of an overall parks plan

Tentative steps are being taken towards a potential new park in Greater Vernon.

The Greater Vernon Advisory Committee has decided to include the concept of a Foothills park in the development of an overall parks plan.

“It’s worth considering as an area for a park,” said director Bob Fleming.

“But it depends on how it happens. It can certainly be a goal.”

The parks plan process could be completed by the end of 2017, but there is no timeline as to when a decision on an actual Foothills park could be made.

The Foothills Community Association has been lobbying for 19.5 hectares of private land to be purchased for park.

“It’s a step in the right direction,” said Wynn Polnicky, association member, of GVAC’s action.

“We wanted the planning process to start and we’re there now.”

The association has been seeking a park since 2010, but the issue is being raised again because an adjacent piece of land recently sold to developers for $1.3 million. It’s believed the park site could cost about $1.4 million.

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Vernon Morning Star