AAP for new VSAR building

Photo: Darren Handschuh

The VSAR building is literally stuffed to the brim with needed items that help VSAR volunteers save lives.

Vernon Search and Rescue outgrew its current building several years ago, but the demand for their services continues to grow.

The building, located next to the regional district office, is literally stuffed to the brim with needed items that help VSAR volunteers save lives.

On Wednesday, regional district officials agreed to pursue borrowing money to build a new VSAR facility.

The board of directors will seek the approval of electors through an Alternative Approval Process (AAP) for the entire regional district to borrow up to $3.5 million dollars over a 20-year term.

If approved, the funds will be used to purchase property and construct a building for VSAR’s future needs.

It is estimated the annual cost to a North Okanagan home assessed at $400,000 would be slightly less than $5 per year over 20 years.

“The (VSAR) service is volunteer based, with literally thousands of hours of volunteer time contributed annually by their members. All of the communities within the RDNO rely on, and will benefit, from their service,” said Bob Fleming RDNO board chairperson.

Mark Forsyth, Director and Search Manager with Vernon Search and Rescue says VSAR is “incredibly excited” with the actions of the regional district.

“A new, purpose-built facility will provide search and rescue with the space required for our equipment so that we can respond quickly when required, as well as provide space for critical training for our volunteers,” said Forsyth.

Information on the AAP process will be available on the RDNO website beginning July 25.