VERNON – Just a few weeks after electing a new MP, citizens in the Greater Vernon area are heading back to the polls to vote on a referendum for a new arena. Residents in Coldstream and some in the regional district will also participate in the regional referendum that would authorize borrowing $13.25 million dollars for the new facility. The proposed arena would add another sheet to the existing complex at Kal Tire Place that is the home to the Vernon Vipers of the BC Hockey league.
The City has attempted to provide information on the proposed project through a special website and public meetings but it is unclear if that will be enough to ensure a good turnout. Voter fatigue could be a major factor in influencing the outcome.
“We want to ensure the public can find the answers they may have about the project—whether they are looking for general information or wish to drill down into the details,” says Doug Ross, director of recreation services for the City of Vernon.
Local elections traditionally have a low turnout and coming on the heels of a federal election, many voters may have not had the opportunity to digest all the information and or be motivated to get out and vote again. The results will be known in early December and if supported could shape the priorities and financial picture of the region for some time.
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In other news, the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce recently announced the opening of the nomination period for the 2016 Business Excellence Awards. Nominations are being accepted until late December. This year`s theme is The Sky’s the Limit and builds off the excitement from last year`s gala that showcased the area’s premier businesses and community leaders. The Chamber is also pleased to recognize Valley First as the presenting sponsor of the long running awards program.
“Recognizing local businesses that make our community stronger and more vibrant is extremely important to Valley First and we’re proud to lend our support,” says Ben Robinson, business banking advisor with Valley First in Vernon.
The Excellence Awards are scheduled for Friday March 11, 2016 and will feature a number of new awards including Tourism Excellence, Non-Profit Excellence, Community Leader of the Year, Business Person of the Year, People’s Choice Award and News Maker of the Year. The Nominee’s Luncheon which recognizes the top three in each category goes Tuesday Feb. 9, 2016.
“We’re really excited to be introducing some new award categories this year. It will be a great opportunity to have a fresh outlook on the community and recognize a variety of businesses, organizations and individuals for their achievements,” says Dan Proulx, membership & events coordinator with the Chamber.
Nominations can be submitted through the Chamber`s website. The Awards Gala is a near sell-out event every year.
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In closing, the Greater Vernon Chamber is pleased to welcome a number of new members including Esprit Consulting & Counselling Services, TD Mobile Mortgage Specialist Reece Dolezsar, David Bastin – The Fear Fighter, Louisa Cochrane Personal Real Estate Corp., Smart Living Okanagan (Vernon), Royal LePage Downtown Realty Ltd., Neil Scott, Seven 5 Seven Millwork & Installation, Public House Marketing, The Victorian Retirement Residence, Lucid Water Co., and the John Howard Society of the North Okanagan/Kootenay. Welcome to the Chamber network!
– Dan Rogers is the General Manager at the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce and can be reached at manager@vernonchamber.ca.