Town of Osoyoos Council explores repurposing of local Airport Lands

Town of Osoyoos Council is exploring a more practical use for an airport facility that now serves a limited number of recreational aircraft and a drag strip for local racing enthusiasts.
 
Council determined November 3 the existing airport lands could be better used for industrial expansion. Council then met with newly elected Councillors, members of the Town’s Economic Advisory and Destination Osoyoos boards on November 17 and explained its conclusion.
 
All agreed Council’s direction was in the best interests of the community.
 
“Very few aircraft use the existing airfield,” explained Mayor Stu Wells, adding that Council had grappled over the last two years with a proposed $4.5-million expansion to make the facility a more viable operation.   
 
An expansion would have required the purchase of some adjacent property, he added.
 
Council viewed the $4.5-million expenditure as redundant given the airport facilities in Oliver and a shuttle service recently developed to move air travellers from Kelowna and Penticton airports to Osoyoos.
 
“We’re confident visitors to Osoyoos arriving by pleasure aircraft can be accommodated by the Oliver facility,” said Mayor-elect Sue McKortoff.
 
“Given the location of the property near Hwy. 3 and Hwy. 97, using the land for an industrial purpose makes so much more sense.”
 
The airport property was granted to the Town for airport purposes. Before changing the property’s use to industrial, the Town would be required to purchase it from the province.
 
“Osoyoos has a limited land base and must make the best use of the land that is available to the community,” said McKortoff. “Future growth and development of the community will require additional industrial lands.”
 
The Town currently has just two industrial lots available for sale and development.
 
Barry Romanko, the Town’s Chief Administrative Officer, said he was pleased with the way in which the decision was made.
 
“Right now we’re somewhat in between two Councils, with one going out and another ready to begin service December 1,” he explained. “By involving all councillors in the discussion, we’ve provided for continuity.”
 
The new Council will have the final say on whether to move forward with the land purchase — and subsequent decision to convert the airport to industrial use.
 
“Obviously, there will be substantial consultation with members of the Osoyoos community as well,” said McKortoff.