Presentation from the Canadian Mental Health Association
Council welcomed representatives from the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Vernon & District who presented on the organization’s programs, services, and ongoing efforts to support mental health and wellness throughout the North Okanagan.
The presentation highlighted the growing need for accessible mental health supports in communities, including youth and family services, crisis response resources, housing supports, and community outreach initiatives.
The presentation also provided an overview of Foundry North Okanagan, an upcoming integrated youth wellness centre that will provide free and confidential mental health, substance use, primary care, peer support, and social services for youth ages 12–24 and their families under one roof. Council heard how Foundry North Okanagan aims to improve access to care for youth across the region, including rural communities, by creating a welcoming, low-barrier space and strengthening connections between existing community supports and service providers. Potential funding opportunities were provided for Council consideration.
Council appreciated the opportunity to learn more about the important work being done locally to support individuals and families facing mental health challenges.
Student Request for New Signage at Kalamalka Lake Approved
At their April 27, 2026, meeting, Council received a delegation from Vernon Secondary School students who are participating in the Climate Action Ripple Effect (CARE) project through School District 22. The students presented a proposal focused on reducing littering and illegal dumping around Kalamalka Lake through the installation of new and updated educational signage at key lake access points, supported by fundraising efforts and a public awareness campaign.
Council subsequently approved the proposal to allow for the installation of stewardship signs, and the “Protecting Kalamalka Lake – A Climate Action Ripple Effect” initiative will see signs installed at the Kal Beach parking lot, Kal Beach entry, Kalavista Boat Launch, and the boat trailer parking lot on Kalavista Drive.
Council also approved an exemption to the District’s Zoning Bylaw to allow sponsor names and logos to appear on the signs, subject to staff approval, recognizing the students’ efforts to secure community sponsorships to fund the project.
RCMP 1st Quarter Report
Council received the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP’s 1st Quarter 2026 Policing Report, which provided an overview of policing activity, community safety initiatives, and crime statistics across the region, including Coldstream.
The report highlighted a decrease in total calls for service and violent crime in Coldstream compared to the same period in 2025, while property crime levels remained relatively stable. RCMP also shared updates on targeted enforcement initiatives, road safety efforts, mental health response programs, and community outreach activities throughout the North Okanagan.
Council thanked the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP members and volunteers for their continued service, collaboration, and commitment to keeping the community safe.