City officials are being a bit cagey on where the Kin Race Track currently stands, declining to say if they have heard that the equestrian society has given up the fight.

“That's something that we don't know for sure. So we will stand our ground and say 'Yes, this one is in the courts,'” said Mayor Victor Cumming.

The battle over the fate of the prime piece of real estate has been going on for years, with the courts eventually ruling in favour of the city last year.

However, when the decision came down, the society said it would appeal.

When directly asked if he has heard from the society saying they have given up their appeal, Cumming responded, “Can't answer that. Let's just leave that as it is. Somewhat no comment.”

Officials with the society did not return calls from Castanet seeking comment.

In his May, 2018 ruling, Justice Michael Tammen said he shares the “view that if Kin Park is presently an eyesore, such is deplorable. However, I am unable and unwilling to apportion responsibility or blame for that sad state of affairs. Obviously, the majority of the issues among the parties which I have decided could and likely should have been adjudicated years ago. I do not know why this case took more than ten years to get to trial. Hopefully, with this judgment, the defendants can commence to make better use of the land. I dismiss the action. The defendants are entitled to their costs.”

The race track, which has sat idle for several years, had been the focus of much discussion that eventually led the Okanagan Equestrian Society, the regional district and the City of Vernon to court to settle the future of the land.

The society wanted a return to horse racing at Kin - although it would have needed a substantial investment for upgrades - and claimed the city has broken contracts and agreements with the society leading to the court case.