Highlights from March 16 Council meeting

March 17, 2026

News Release

Highlights from March 16 Council meeting   

 

Penno Rd. rezoning to industrial 

Council advanced the rezoning of a portion of 480 Penno Rd. from Private Recreation to Industrial, along with an amendment to the Official Community Plan to change the site’s future land use designation. The decision followed a public hearing on the proposed changes, which allow (subject to development permit and other required approvals) industrial development on part of the Kelowna Springs property while the remaining land continues to operate as a nine-hole golf course. The bylaws will return to Council for adoption consideration once all outstanding conditions are met. 

Read Report to Council  

 

Amendments to Parking Regulations   

Council approved amendments to Section 8 – Parking and Loading of the Zoning Bylaw to update how parking requirements are met for new developments. Under the changes, projects must either provide parking on site or meet clearly defined requirements for transportation options such as transit passes, car‑share and bicycle facilities. 

Read Report to Council 

 

Council Priorities progress report  

Council received a report on progress on Council Priorities, highlighting continued declines in property crime, fewer traffic-related injuries, and increased enforcement on Kelowna roads. The report shows progress, including areas for improvement, on Crime and Safety, Affordable Housing, Homelessness, Transportation, Agriculture and Environment, and Economy.  

Read Report to Council 

 

Business safety action team – update  

Council received an update on the Business Safety Action Team, including what the City heard from businesses and the actions underway to improve safety. The update outlined steps already launched, such as increased RCMP and Bylaw foot patrols, private overnight security patrols and the Business Security Enhancement Rebate Program, along with additional short- and long-term actions focused on cleanliness, enforcement, partnerships and advocacy.  

Read Report to Council 

 

Highlight from March 9 Council meeting  

 

Carryover projects approved to move forward 

Council approved the 2026 carryover budget of approximately $50 million, consistent with last year, to keep previously approved projects moving forward. No additional tax levies are required, as funding was already collected through earlier taxes, fees, or grants. The carryover keeps multi‑year projects on track and reflects Kelowna’s continued shift from large carryover balances to a cash‑flow budgeting approach that supports steady delivery and stable property taxes. 

Read Report to Council

 

To watch a playback of the Council meeting and view all presentations, visit “Past Meetings” at  

kelowna.ca/council