Photo: Contributed

The future of a prime piece of property in the BX area is up in the air, but according to one regional district director, the people have spoken loud and clear.

The property in question is between Mutrie and BX dog parks and civic leaders are considering what to do with the land, including selling it off.

But regional district vice-chairperson Amanda Shatzko said she has spoken with thousands of Greater Vernon residents and they all want the land to be used as a park.

Shaztko said in 2018 GVAC deferred making a decision on selling the remainder of the BX Ranch land for one year.

“It's been just over a year now and I was interested in checking with the public to see what their thoughts are on the land. What was interesting is I found not a single person proposed to sell the land. They all think it's a great idea to keep it,” said Shatzko, noting she received input from people throughout the Greater Vernon area.

“They have come up with great feedback regarding different ways it could be used. Proposals for mixed use such as trails and parkland or an agricultural park of community garden. Those types of things.”

Shatzko said the public has sent a clear message as to what they like to see happen to the land.

“That is something I think GVAC should consider,” she said.

The 55 hectares also has historic value as it was the original ranch where the horses were kept for the BX stagecoach.

Shatzko plans to bring the public suggestions to the GVAC for discussion.