City Hall

close to the boundary with the Westbank First Nation.

The WFN will not occupy space in the building but was described as a “community partner” in the project. The city says it will work with WFN and the Okanagan Regional Library to include ways to celebrate learning, heritage, culture and design gathering places where everyone is welcome and “can be inspired.”

WFN Chief Christopher Derickson welcomed the project and said he hopes it will reflect the importance of the strong relationship between West Kelowna and the WFN.

He said the presence of indigenous art, by WFN artists, in the new City Hall will be a reminder to current and future West Kelowna councils of that relationship and an acknowledgment of the importance of reconciliation.

“With the Westside experiencing continued growth, it remains important that we grow together, and in the right way,” said Derickson.

He said the city hall project is an opportunity to collaborate and work together with the city, furthering what he described as an already strong relationship.

As for the ORL, its chief executive officer, said he was excited by the project and the space the library will have in the building.

“Modern libraries are a vibrant community hub,” said Don Nettleton. “We are excited that the other adjacent community services available in this new location and project will provide a synergy that could not be achieved alone, which will benefit the citizens of West Kelowna and the surrounding area.”

On question that does remain in the future of the adjacent skateboard park at the aquatic centre site.

Gipps said that will be looked at and council has made it clear that construction of the new city hall will not close the skateboard park.

Any changes that need to be made, will be made before the new city hall is build, he said.