File Photo (Image Credit: CFJC Today)

By James Peters

Build Kamloops

Legal fight over Build Kamloops AAP ends as Wunderlich drops appeal

Mar 24, 2025 | 3:24 PM

KAMLOOPS — The City of Kamloops says the legal battle over the alternative approval process (AAP) that resulted in funding for the first phase of its Build Kamloops plan is over.

Last fall’s AAP gauged public opinion on borrowing $275 million to build a performing arts centre and arena multiplex. Opposition to borrowing fell well below the 10 per cent threshold necessary to halt the borrowing and trigger a referendum.

In October, Kathrine Wunderlich filed a petition in BC Supreme Court, asking Justice Joel Groves to overturn the AAP results. She argued the City of Kamloops had not taken proper steps to inform the public of the process.

When Groves sided with the city last month, Wunderlich said she intended to appeal the decision.

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In a news release distributed Monday (March 24), Build Kamloops Committee Chair Kelly Hall says Wunderlich has now decided to withdraw her appeal.

The city will also drop its appeal for Wunderlich to pay the city’s legal bills, “[i]n the spirit of collaboration and in the interest of moving forward,” according to the news release.

“Justice [Groves’] decision reflects our commitment to ensuring the Build Kamloops program progresses without further delay, prioritizing the best interests of taxpayers and the future of our community. We believe that by resolving this matter, we can maintain momentum on projects that are vital to the growth and well-being of Kamloops,” said Hall.

CFJC Today has reached out to Kathrine Wunderlich for comment.