February 19, 2014 - 12:06 PM
Heritage Week
Council received an update on the Central Okanagan Heritage Society’s activities, grants program and information about Heritage Week events, running Feb. 17 to 23.
Development application signage
Council received a report about the Development Application Process Review implementation. Completed improvements include updates to the application submission process, restructuring of departments to more efficiently handle and process files, enhancements to the mapping and tracking system, consistently branded “It’s your neighbourhood” signage and templates, and formalized policies.
Rental housing
Council approved the 2014 Rental Housing Grants, helping to increase the supply of rental housing in Kelowna. The vacancy rate in Kelowna has dropped from 4 per cent to 1.8 per cent, which could have an effect on monthly rental rates. The 2014 grants will add 70 new units at Pleasantvale and 12 at 550 Rowcliffe Ave.
Shoreline stabilization
Council endorsed the application for a $30,000 grant from the Okanagan Basin Water Board for the Strathcona Park Shoreline Stabilization Project, which will see improvements along Royal Avenue to Strathcona Park.
Public Art
Council received an annual update on the City’s Public Art Program. Plans for 2014 include updating the Public Art brochure, a Cool Arts Society project, development of a new piece for the Police Services building, relocation of the Queensway Running Man, initiation of a temporary public art program and a signage project at the foot of W.R. Bennett Bridge.
Police Services Building AAP
Council endorsed the alternative approval process to borrow $42 million for the Police Services Building Project. Two open houses are scheduled for Mar. 6 and 10 from 3:30-6:30 p.m. at the Royal Anne Hotel. Staff will be available to answer questions about the building and related project work. For more information, go to kelowna.ca/cityprojects.
News from © iNFOnews, 2014