The City of Kelowna is putting the brakes on new RV park applications on agricultural land because, the city says, most agritourism RV park owners aren’t following the rules.
According to the city, nine out of 13 agritourism RV parks aren’t abiding by the rules.
“We want to help farmers, help them succeed, help them diversify, but there are rules in place that have to be adhered to,” said councillor Mohini Singh.
The city says some have too many spots, some allow guests to stay too long. Five of those cases are before the courts.
The owner of one of those RV parks, Scenic View, called the city’s decision “very shortsighted.” Graeme James is one of the people the city is taking to court.
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James doesn’t believe he’s doing anything wrong but admits not everyone is operating above board.
“There are a few bad examples in Kelowna, I agree,” James said. “But to punish everyone, that’s not the answer.”
Right now new park applications on agricultural land are just on hold.
The next step is a public hearing for RV park owners and the community to have their say.
The public hearing is scheduled for August 23.