The Kelowna Wibit (pictured), like the one in Penticton, is very popular with youngsters or all ages. (Okanagan Wibit photo)
A proposed inflatable “Wibit” waterpark off the north end of Gyro Park now only requires provincial approvals before it can operate this summer.
Town council on Monday gave third reading to a bylaw to rezone a portion of the lake next to the Osoyoos Senior Centre to allow the park to move forward.
A public hearing on April 30 only heard from one resident, Robert Johnson, who supported the concept but opposed the location.
In a report to council, Gina MacKay, director of planning and development services, noted that the town has been exploring the idea since 2016.
“A number of locations were considered and an extensive public consultation process was undertaken, including a survey process and open house,” MacKay wrote. “Results of the public consultation process indicate support for this proposal.”
Only Councillor Mike Campol commented before council voted to give the bylaw third reading.
“I’ve heard almost nothing but excitement and positive feedback from the community on this initiative,” said Campol. “For me, anytime we can have a few more hundred kids stop rubbernecking themselves down on their devices and doing something and getting some exercise and making some noise and having fun, I support it.”
Okanagan Wibit, which operates similar inflatable waterparks in Kelowna, Penticton and Peachland, first approached the town in 2016.
Other locations were considered and rejected, including Legion Beach, Cottonwood Park, Lions Park and South Gyro Park.
Over a year ago, the town issued a request for proposals and only Okanagan Wibit applied. An open house was held Dec. 6 at the Sonora Community Centre to provide information and receive public feedback.
In addition to the use of the lake, there will also be a registration office and lifejacket storage in Gyro Park near the south corner of the bowling green.
Okanagan Wibit’s application specifies two different sizes for the inflatable waterpark:
• A smaller one would be 48 by 25 metres with a capacity of 80 to 100 people;
• A larger one would be 51 by 40 metres with a capacity of 120 to 140 people.
MacKay said Okanagan Wibit intends to start with the smaller size. They may choose to expand it to the larger size at a later date.
The company also requires provincial approvals. In particular, it needs a provincial water license as well as environmental approvals.
MacKay told council in early April that the plan was to hold the bylaw at third reading until provincial approvals are completed and then bring it forward for adoption.
The target opening date is this summer, if the necessary approvals are obtained.
RICHARD McGUIRE
Osoyoos Times
