KIRNDEEP NAHAL
VERNON – The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce is calling on the City of Vernon to adopt a thoughtful and collaborative approach to its Official Community Plan (OCP) that reflects the voice of local businesses, non-profits, and entrepreneurs during a time of economic uncertainty.
Following an extensive member engagement process, including a survey that generated 153 responses, the Chamber’s Advocacy Committee has submitted a comprehensive set of recommendations to Mayor and Council. The recommendations aim to guide Vernon’s growth in a way that supports sustainable development while safeguarding the competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises.
“We believe that a vibrant and resilient Vernon must be rooted in policies that recognize today’s economic realities and the essential role our business community plays in driving future prosperity,” said Kirndeep Nahal, President of the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce.
Prioritizing Flexibility, Balance and Community Input
Among the Chamber’s key recommendations is a call for the City to adopt an incremental approach to land use and transportation planning, emphasizing the need for ongoing data collection and community engagement before implementing major changes.
The Chamber encourages the City to separate the OCP process from the Transportation Plan, to ensure each initiative receives the necessary depth of consultation and strategic alignment. Additionally, any expansion of transit-oriented development should be tied to actual demand and readiness, if exceeding provincial mandates.
Supporting Business and Workforce Needs
The submission highlights the urgent need for policies that will support economic vitality and workforce sustainability, including:
- Expansion of mixed-use commercial and residential developments to reduce commuting and stimulate local spending.
- Continued streamlining of permit and development processes to reduce barriers for new housing and business growth.
- A Community Amenity Contribution Policy and Redevelopment Policy that ensure equitable growth and preserve community assets.
- Implementation of the Housing Action Plan to increase the availability of affordable housing, particularly for seasonal and skilled workers.
Kirndeep Nahal is President of the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce
