Times-Chronicle Staff
Town staff have recommended that council hire a coordinator to oversee the “Grow Oliver” project.
Council will discuss the recommendation on Monday, including where the money will come from and involving the South Okanagan Chamber of Commerce.
In her report, Chief Administrative Officer Cathy Cowan says a coordinator will bring the economic development expertise needed to implement the objectives of the Grow Oliver plan. Some actions include a wayfinding project, food truck lot, new childcare spaces, wine tasting centre, and a cycle tourism program.
The coordinator will liaise with local stakeholders and work with external partners on the objectives, including a business “seed” package. Their work will also include grant writing.
Cowan noted the budget required to support a part-time coordinator would be $6,750 (270 hours at $25 per hour). Cowan noted the Grow Oliver project has a surplus of $3,000 which could be used this year to fund the position.
“In future, consideration could be given to funding the position through business licence fees,” she said.
