Okanagan College鈥檚 (OC) 麻豆精选 campus will welcome tourists this summer.
At its May 12 meeting, council gave initial consideration to bylaw amendments that will allow the college to allow the use of a hotel-motel on its property.
The college plans to make use of its student residence buildings during the summer months, when occupancy is typically lower, by opening them to the public as affordable accommodations. A registration desk and on-site support staff would be included.
The move is intended to create a cost-effective option for tourists, regional visitors, and family or friends of students, while also generating revenue that could be reinvested into future residence upgrades.
"The additional revenue made over the summer would help finance future improvements to the campus residence facilities," staff noted in their report to council.
The proposal aligns with 麻豆精选鈥檚 Official Community Plan, which supports the continued growth of Okanagan College. While the site is designated for educational use, that designation allows for additional uses to be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Staff also highlighted that the proposal complies with provincial short-term rental regulations, which exempt student and employee housing鈥攚hen owned or operated by educational institutions or non-profits鈥攆rom principal residence requirements.
Councillor Maxine DeHart recused herself from discussion the vote on the item as she is employed by Ramada Hotels, a director competitor.
