By Times Chronicle Staff

Oliver residents have presented the powers that be with a lot of ideas as town council heads into its strategic priority session on Jan 6.

Councillor Aimee Grice reached out to the public prior to the meeting, asking residents what issues they want to see addressed.

One resident said she wants to see bike lanes and walking paths in more neighbourhoods. She noted the existing hike and bike trail along the river is not maintained very well.

“We drive to Osoyoos to use their beautiful walking path that is kept snow and pretty much ice free with lights and benches.”

Another homeowner said she would like to see food security that doesn’t prioritize the homeless, but rather cultivates community participation for all to access free produce.

One taxpayer said it dismays her when water restrictions are imposed on people growing their own food. 

She noted that xeriscaping for water conservation is not the answer; build boulevards to capture water in low-lying depressions so the water is directed back into the ground.

Another resident suggested reducing taxes or offering water bill credits to people converting grass to food.

A couple of people said better public transportation is needed between Gallagher Lake to town and Road 9 for workers and the elderly.

The need was also expressed for a Handi-dart bus service for seniors and people with disabilities to access events and appointments.

“There are residents in assisted living that have not been able to go out of the building for years due to transportation issues.”

Road maintenance on Spillway, Station Street (south end) and Sawmill is another concern.

A second bridge over the river in town is another idea put forth.

One resident called for better lighting at the visitor centre at night, while another called for speed bumps on School Avenue.

Another lamented that more maintenance is needed on the hike and bike trail near Lion’s Park.

One respondent recommended a new committee to address accessibility for mobility scooters, wheelchairs, and walkers in town.

Bring in more doctors is a common thread for many people in Oliver. One resident said it’s hard (and scary) for seniors to manage their health without a family doctor.

Another said: “Doctors seem to come and go. We’ve had to change family doctors several times in less than a decade because they keep skipping town.”

One homeowner said that Oliver needs a walk-in clinic.

A homeless shelter is also a must, said another respondent.

A couple of people said they wanted an indoor swimming pool. 

One suggested a community composting program.

Another said Oliver needs a hospice care home so residents don’t have to travel to Penticton.

With potential e-scooter rentals in the community, one homeowner expressed concern about adding pressure to Oliver hospital’s emergency department.

As for housing, respondents called for decent accommodation to house low-income people and those in wheelchairs.

Decent housing is also needed for seasonal workers, another resident said.

“Encourage developers to build dedicated rental housing,” one suggested.

Crime is another concern.

“The RCMP is ridiculously understaffed,” one said, noting the town cannot allow businesses and homeowners to be victimized by criminals who perceive a delay in police response.

Another resident said we need to tackle the increased theft in the community.

More bylaw enforcement for dogs off leash at elementary schools is a pet peeve of one resident.

Snow clearing is another issue that some people raised.

“I cannot navigate snowbanks with my walker. I can’t get to my car or put the walker in, so I can’t leave my home,” one senior said.

After the town council’s meeting on Jan. 6, members will prioritize the strategies and decide which ones to pursue in 2023 and beyond.