The City of Vernon, the District of Coldstream and Regional District of North Okanagan (RDNO) electoral areas B and C have established a new recreation fee through a service agreement that they said will continue to support shared access to recreation services and facilities across Greater Vernon.
In a statement issued June 5, the city said that under the agreement, Coldstream and electoral areas B and C will contribute operational funding for recreation services within Vernon, including the new Active Living Centre and the Lavington Pool in Coldstream.
In return, residents of participating communities will receive the same user rates as Vernon residents, along with equal access to recreation facilities, services and early program registration.
“Recreation facilities and programs are an important part of what makes Greater Vernon a healthy and connected community,” Vernon Mayor Victor Cumming said. “This agreement supports continued collaboration between our communities and helps ensure residents continue to have access to quality recreation opportunities and services throughout the region.”
The city said that with the addition of the Active Living Centre, annual contributions from the District of Coldstream and RDNO electoral areas B and C will increase from $1.51 million in 2026 to $2.05 million in 2029.
“We thank the City of Vernon, Electoral Area Directors and respective Administrations for working together on this agreement,” Coldstream Mayor Ruth Hoyte said. “Recreation is an important aspect to Coldstream residents, and we are looking forward to continued access to this vital service.”
The new agreement takes effect Jan. 1, 2027, and remains in place until Dec. 31, 2029, with an opportunity to negotiate future terms.
The city said it will use the annual contribution to offset operating costs for recreation facilities and services, including the Halina Centre, Lavington Pool, Lakeview Pool, Kal Tire Place and the Active Living Centre.
