Council Highlights: May 19, 2026

Council Highlights

A brief and informal summary of key decisions and discussions from the May 19, 2026, Penticton City Council meeting.

Delegations and Proclamations

Council recognized several community awareness initiatives, including:
•    Seniors’ Week (June 6–12, 2026)
•    Melanoma and Skin Cancer Awareness Month (May 2026)
•    Brain Injury Awareness Month (June 2026)

These proclamations highlighted the importance of community awareness, prevention and support services.

Community Safety Collaboration Update – SOICS
Council heard an update from the South Okanagan Immigrant and Community Services Society (SOICS) on ongoing work related to community safety and inclusion.

Okanagan Basin Water Board Update
Council received an overview of regional water management priorities and upcoming work, including a new strategic direction and ongoing watershed initiatives.

Council Decisions
2024–2026 Council Priorities – Q1 Update
Council received a first-quarter update on its strategic priorities, focused on building a safe and resilient, and livable and accessible community.
The update noted increased demand on emergency services, while overall crime remained below historical averages. 

Safe Public Places Bylaw
Council gave second and third reading to the Safe Public Places Bylaw, and the related ticketing bylaws, that includes additional language addressing harassment in public places.

Lakeshore Safety Strategy
Council approved the 2026 Lakeshore Safety Strategy, including:
•    CCTV installation and expansion of the Chamber of Commerce camera program; and
•    Funding to establish the Jubilee Pavilion as a seasonal community policing hub

Regional Economic Development Collaboration
Council approved entering into a three-year partnership with the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) to support a regional economic development approach.
Funding for a shared economic development coordinator position will be included in future budgets.

Quarterly Financial and Corporate Update
Council received a Q1 financial update and approved budget amendments, including:
•    Funding to complete previously approved projects
•    Adjustments to the City’s five-year financial plan

BC Transit Agreement
Council authorized the 2026–2027 annual operating agreement with BC Transit to maintain existing transit services.

2026 General Local Election Appointments
Council appointed Angie Collison as the Chief Election Officer and Paula McKinnon and Hayley Anderson as Deputy Chief Election Officers for the 2026 General Local Election and assent voting.

Covenant Discharge – 399 Main Street
Council approved the discharge of an existing covenant on the property to allow for updated arrangements reflecting current site conditions.

For more information and to read the associated Council Reports, please visit: Council.ca/council