RCMP seeing more calls in downtown

Kelowna RCMP are seeing fewer calls for service this year, but more in the downtown area.

Supt. Kara Triance updated city council on public safety and crime data between April 1 to September 30, 2022.

Triance told council increases this year have been noted in downtown disorder calls, business break and enters, bike thefts, and robberies — all consistent with pre-pandemic levels.

Reported cases of domestic violence and assault decreased.

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The following are other highlights from Kelowna council’s Nov. 28 meeting.

Bernard Avenue multi-family

A rezoning and official community plan amendment was considered by Kelowna council for 150 units of long-term rental housing at 1575 Bernard.

The proposed project includes townhomes wrapped around a two-level parkade with apartment housing above.

Council gave first reading and forwarded the proposal to a Jan. 17 public hearing.

H20 fee increases

Council agreed to increase both membership fees (effective Jan. 1, 2023) and drop-in admission fees (effective July 1, 2023) at H2O Adventure + Fitness Centre.

The cost for an adult drop-in fee goes to $12.50 from $12, youth goes to $9.75 from $9.30, and child/youth membership goes to $47.25 from $45.

Snow removal update

Staff updated council on the snow and ice removal program, which includes 1,800 lane km of roads, 440 km of sidewalks, 390 km of bike lanes and 40 km of multi-use corridors.