As we approach the end of 2023, I am honored to share with you the progress, achievements, and aspirations that have defined our city's journey throughout this year.
From advancing housing solutions to addressing infrastructure replacement, completing vital projects, and laying the groundwork for future developments, our city has witnessed substantial progress and positive transformation.
There continues to be significant investment Vernon. In 2023, we set a record for building permit values, surpassing $212 million (residential, commercial industrial, institutional), with more than 420 residential units permitted for construction. A bright spot is the continued increase in multi-family units permitted, supporting the ongoing shift in the market towards multi-family developments. Still, we know that a lack of affordable housing continues to be a challenge.
Investing in our city's infrastructure has been, and remains, a priority. We've dedicated resources to maintaining and improving our roads, sidewalks, and transportation networks to ensure safe and efficient travel for our residents and visitors alike. A few of the major projects completed this year include the reconstruction of 32nd Avenue between Pleasant Valley Road and 20th Street, the Silver Star multi-use path, and the 28th Avenue rail crossing upgrade. We also made improvements to median lighting on Silver Star Road, improved road conditions along 20th Street between 46th and 58th Avenues and incorporated micro surfacing to our road repair tool kit, as seen throughout south Vernon.
Maintaining and improving water and waste management systems is also crucial for our community's well-being. The Vernon Water Reclamation Center (VWRC) finished construction of the High Rate Anaerobic Digester (HRAD) plant expansion in the summer of 2023. This addition enhances wastewater treatment, particularly in treating high-strength waste and easing the load on the main plant, effectively extending future capacity by 15 years.
Furthermore, the successful 2023 Spray Irrigation season, influenced by a hot and dry spring and summer, significantly increased the demand for irrigation, utilizing approximately 4.6 million m3 of reclaimed water from the Mackay Reservoir—a testament to efficient water use during favorable weather conditions.
Our commitment to preserving and enhancing our green spaces and recreational areas has been another focal point for Council. From revitalizing existing parks to introducing new amenities, in 2023 we created inviting spaces for leisure, recreation, and community gatherings, which include upgrades to Carlson Park, Deer Park and Pottery Ravine Park, phase 2 and 3 of Civic Memorial Park, improved accessibility to lake access along Okanagan Landing Road and Tronson Road, and of course the major reconstruction of Lakeview Park, or better known as the “Peanut Pool.”
We also invested in the safety and well-being of our community with the addition of four (4) more career firefighters and 10 auxiliary firefighters, as well as firefighting equipment.
However, as a region we had to endure another difficult late summer of wildfire. In August, as fire ravaged our neighbouring communities, I am proud to say that Vernon stepped up as a community and offered support and refuge to those who were displaced. As I said before, and I will say again; your response was nothing short of remarkable and proved that in times of crisis, Vernon residents step up.
We continued to push towards our climate action goals as outlined in our award-winning Climate Action Plan by adding to our fleet of electric and hybrid vehicles, plus expanding our inventory of EV charging stations. Residents continue to do their part, as more than 3,000 tonnes of organics material was collected in 2023 through the Curbside Organics Collection program and more than 113,800 rides were taken on electric kick scooters.
Looking ahead, Council’s dedication remains resolute in our commitment to maintaining effective and efficient services, embracing new opportunities, overcoming significant challenges, and shaping a brighter future for Vernon. Our Strategic Plan for 2023-2026 focusses on five (5) priority areas: livability; vibrancy; recreation, parks and natural areas; environmental leadership; and governance and organizational excellence, which will provide the roadmap that will guide Council and Administration over the next three (3) years.
As we eagerly anticipate the opportunities that lie ahead, together, we will continue our journey towards a vibrant, inclusive, and prosperous Vernon.
On behalf of the City Council and the entire team at the City of Vernon, I extend warm wishes for a joyous holiday season and a prosperous, healthy, and fulfilling year ahead in 2024.
Victor I. Cumming
Mayor, City of Vernon