Vernon approves layout for park at former Civic Arena site and gives it a name

Photo: City of Vernon

The new city centre park on the former Civic Arena lands layout has been approved by Vernon city council and has been given a name.

Some concerns were raised during Monday's council meeting, starting with Coun. Scott Anderson.

Anderson said he wanted to see park plans for the winter season, which were not included in the report to council.

He suggested in the future when discussing parks to be sure to specifically mention plans for the park over the course of the fall and winter seasons.

Mayor Victor Cumming also raised the concern of the location of the playground being too far from the washrooms.

Administration confirmed the playground is 75 metres from the washroom.

However, the layout of the playground was approved by council.

Coun. Kari Gares pushed for council to move forward with naming the park.

She wanted the park to be named after the Civic Arena based on what it represents for the community.

“We should honour what was once there,” said Gares.

Gares recommended naming it Civic Memorial Park.

Gares moved to waive the usual naming policy in order to move forward with the name, which council voted in favour of.

Administration also said they reached out to the Okanagan Indian Band about including interpretive signs.