Ongoing Community Priorities in Vernon

My priorities for Vernon, guided by the principles of fairness, fiscal responsibility, and evidence-based decision-making, focus on enhancing community well-being initiatives and affordable housing in Vernon. As our city continues to grow and evolve, I am dedicated to practical solutions that strengthen our community while preserving the qualities that make Vernon such a desirable place to live. Related initiatives approved during the 2022 - 2026 term include the 2023 - 2026 Council Strategic Plan, where 87.9% of Strategic Plan initiatives are complete or in progress, reflecting our commitment to the Vernon city council priorities and the future of our community. 2026 Strategic Plan Update.

Housing affordability in Vernon remains one of the most significant challenges facing residents. I support policies that encourage a broader range of affordable housing options in Vernon, which will increase housing supply and reduce unnecessary barriers. While simply increasing housing supply will not entirely solve our affordability challenges, it is a crucial part of ensuring that Vernon remains accessible to families, workers, seniors, and young people. These efforts align with community well-being initiatives and the priorities set by the Vernon city council. Related initiatives approved during the 2022 - 2026 term include the Housing Action Plan, the Official Community Plan, the Zoning & Land Use Bylaw, and the Development Cost Charge review.

Residents work hard for their money and deserve a Council that manages taxpayer dollars carefully and transparently. I will continue supporting transparent budgeting, careful spending, and long-term financial planning that aligns with Vernon city council priorities, including investments in affordable housing in Vernon and community well-being initiatives that provide lasting value for taxpayers. Related initiatives approved during the 2022 - 2026 term include the 2026 - 2030 Financial Plan and the 2025 - 2029 Financial Plan.

Maintaining roads, utilities, active transportation networks, parks, and community facilities is essential for supporting both current and future residents in Vernon. These efforts align with the Vernon city council priorities, which include affordable housing and community well-being initiatives. Strategic investments made today are vital in preventing higher costs tomorrow. Related initiatives approved or in progress during the 2022 - 2026 term include the Transportation Plan, Active Transportation Network improvements, Asset Management Strategy, Capital Infrastructure Plan, and various Infrastructure Projects.

A safe community is a strong community. Addressing public safety challenges in Vernon requires collaboration between local government, community organizations, health authorities, law enforcement, and provincial partners. I support practical, evidence-based approaches that improve community safety and well-being initiatives while tackling underlying challenges, including the need for affordable housing in Vernon. Related initiatives approved or in progress during the 2022 - 2026 term align with Vernon city council priorities and include: Climate Action & Sustainability, Emergency Management Plan, Fire Department Master Plan, New In-Patient Psychiatric Unit, and New Urgent Primary Care Centre.

Parks, recreation facilities, trails, arts, culture, and public spaces significantly enhance our quality of life and are key components of the community well-being initiatives supported by the Vernon city council priorities. Investing in these amenities not only helps attract families, businesses, and visitors but also fosters a healthier and more connected community, contributing to the need for affordable housing Vernon. These investments pave the way for Vernon to become a community where people want to live, work, retire, and raise families.

Related initiatives approved during the 2022 - 2026 term:

Active Living Centre

Greater Vernon Natural Spaces and Trails Master Plan

Greater Vernon Cultural Centre

Many of the issues affecting Vernon, such as healthcare, transportation, affordable housing in Vernon, economic development, and environmental stewardship, cannot be addressed by a single municipality; they require regional collaboration. 

I will continue working with neighbouring communities and regional partners to advocate for solutions that enhance community well-being initiatives and align with Vernon city council priorities, benefiting both Vernon and the broader North Okanagan.

I am proud of what Vernon has accomplished over the past several years, especially in areas such as affordable housing in Vernon, but there is still important work ahead. Our community continues to grow and evolve, and I remain committed to community well-being initiatives that support this progress. As a member of the Vernon city council, my focus is on providing fair, thoughtful, and fiscally responsible leadership that helps our community continue moving forward with confidence.