The Vernon Courthouse is a majestic landmark that all of us can take pride in.
Try to imagine how impressive it must have been to area residents when it opened its doors in 1914 – its imposing presence and perfect location standing guard over its environment, sending all the right signals about justice for all.
One hundred years later, it is still an impressive building with its granite columns and stairs standing the test of time and relaying a similar, if maybe a little muted by the ongoing traffic below, message of standing tall for all who enter her doors.
However, its towering nature hides the fact that after 10 decades of serving the North Okanagan, the building is more than just showing its age, especially once you enter its doors.
There are plans to deal with security issues, an outdated library and new court rooms that could address the problem of backlogs and potentially cases being moved elsewhere, but it needs approval, and, of course, funding.
It certainly seems appropriate, in the year of its centennial, not to mention in honour of its decades of dedicated service, that the Vernon Courthouse be given priority status by the provincial government.
If Victoria is looking for the perfect feel-good photo op for a funding announcement, may we suggest trying the stairs of the Vernon Courthouse this spring.
In the meantime thanks has to go to the politicians and architects and workers who had the talent and the vision to pull off such an amazing feat 100 years ago.
Happy birthday Vernon Courthouse and here’s to many more majestic years of service.
