What is the
biggest issue facing the City of Vernon?
Earlier this
year I attended an information session at the Schubert Center aimed at
gathering public input regarding the challenges faced by both individuals and
businesses stemming from actions and interactions with Vernon’s homeless. My
eyes were opened. Feelings ran high and tempers were frayed. The frustration of
those who spoke was almost palpable. The
task force which called the meeting took the information gathered and
ultimately presented a series of recommendations to Vernon City Council. All
this activity would lead one to believe this is our biggest problem. It certainty
appears to be urgent.
The issue of
the homeless is not new but appears to be cyclical in nature. Faced with this
or any challenge as a Councillor I would return to the guiding principles of
Vernon’s Official Community Plan:
Foster
prosperity for people, business and government.
Protect and
preserve green spaces and sensitive areas.
Ensure
housing meets the needs of the whole community.
Create a
culture of sustainability.
Create
strong, compact and complete neighbourhoods.
Provide
alternative transportation.
Revitalize
the downtown.
Create a
youth friendly city.
Each of
these principles is elaborated in the community plan. When these principles are neglected in
decision making we experience crises. The most visible of which recently has
been our street population. Space will
not allow me to expand their detail. These principles outline the big picture.
If, as a councillor, I can keep the big picture in mind, solutions pursued to
solve challenges will serve all residents with fairness and compassion. Here is
the link
www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5470-official-community,-plan-bylaw.pdf
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