File photo (Image credit: CFJC Today).

By Aaron Schulze

alternative approval process

Council votes to proceed with alternative approval process for Build Kamloops

Jul 31, 2024 | 5:46 AM

KAMLOOPS — Kamloops council voted to proceed with the alternative approval process for the Build Kamloops program.

In an 8-1 vote during their regular meeting Tuesday (July 30), council approved the timelines, elector response forms and number of eligible electors for the plan that includes a performing arts centre, an arena multiplex and the borrowing of $275 million. Mayor Reid Hamer-Jackson was the sole nay vote, citing in the council chambers that residents he’s spoken with told him they want a referendum.

The City of Kamloops says an alternative approval process is an alternative to a referendum vote, saying the latter costs taxpayers more money for a longer process. The alternative approval process allows voters no less than 30 days between a required second notice and the process closing date to submit an elector response form if they oppose the municipal government’s proposal.

If a Kamloops voter is not opposed, they do not need to do anything. If 10 per cent — 8,713 — or more of eligible voters submit forms indicating their opposition to the proposal, the City cannot proceed with the long-term borrowing without holding a referendum.

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The alternative approval process opened on July 30 and will close on Sept. 13, 2024.

Elector response forms will be available at City Hall, 7 Victoria St. W, during regular business hours from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday to Friday, excluding statutory holidays.

Digital copies are also available online. Completed elector response forms must be received by the Corporate Officer via mail, drop off in person or at the drop box outside City Hall, or emailed to legislate@kamloops.ca at City Hall on or before the deadline.