Vernon and Coldstream 2025: A Year in Review

2025 saw several notable events in Vernon, Coldstream, and the surrounding area. From serious fires and emergency responses to policy updates and local improvements,

Some of the key stories, the tragic house fire on Kalview Drive, wildfires near the Vernon landfill and Lavington, a busy year for Vernon Search and Rescue with new game changing satellite tech, the fire at Vernon Kia, the speculation and vacancy tax expansion, the Highway 97 treehouse encampment demolition, Curtis Sagmoen's death at the Tiki Motel, Vernon's property tax increase, and the new Rotary Pier at Kal Beach.These moments reflect the year's challenges and changes.

Fatal House Fire on Kalview Drive, Coldstream (July 2025)

A devastating residential fire on Kalview Drive (overlooking Kalamalka Lake) completely destroyed a home on July 24, 2025, around 2:00 p.m.

A devastating residential fire on Kalview Drive took a life

Emergency crews from Coldstream Fire Department and Vernon North Okanagan RCMP responded to the fully involved blaze. One occupant was confirmed deceased during the following investigation.

The cause remains undetermined, with no indication of criminality.

The BC Coroners Service and fire investigators have not released any findings to date.

Significant Wildfires Near Vernon Landfill and Coldstream/Lavington (2025)

The year saw notable wildfire activity impacting the region. A fast-moving fire near Clerke Road/Highway 97 (close to the Greater Vernon Diversion and Disposal Facility/landfill) prompted tactical evacuations and multi-department response (including Vernon, Coldstream, and Lavington fire crews).

Noble Canyon wildfire near Lavington

Another major blaze, the Noble Canyon wildfire near Lavington (sparked behind a gas station), grew rapidly to 50–67 hectares, leading to evacuation orders/alerts, a local state of emergency in Coldstream, and overnight patrols with aerial support.

These events highlighted dry conditions, human-caused risks, and the ongoing need for vigilance in wildfire-prone areas.

Busy Year for Vernon Search and Rescue (VSAR) with New Tech as a Game-Changer (Throughout 2025)

Vernon Search and Rescue volunteers logged thousands of hours responding to many dozens of calls in 2025, handling incidents like snowmobiler rescues (e.g., Aberdeen Plateau rollover), water rescues on Kalamalka Lake, and even false SOS alerts.

The year VSAR emphasized volunteer dedication amid ebbs and flows of activity, with calls for more members.

A standout highlight, the use of satellite communication devices by people venturing into the back country (e.g., iPhone SOS, ZOLEO).

Their use is proving to be transformative, enabling faster, more accurate responses, even in remote areas, and often expediting rescues significantly.

VSAR noted this tech is a literal game changer, far outweighing its occasional quirks.

Suspicious Fire at Vernon Kia Dealership (December 2025)

An early-morning blaze on Christmas Eve (December 24, 2025) at Vernon Kia on Highway 97 destroyed at least 6 vehicles in the back lot, with others heavily damaged by heat/flames.

Suspicious Fire at Vernon Kia Dealership

Firefighters from BX Swan Lake and nearby Vernon Fire Rescue contained the fire, with no injuries reported.

The fire was deemed suspicious in nature, drawing attention due to its timing and visual impact (heavy smoke visible across the Swan Lake Auto Mile).

Speculation and Vacancy Tax Expansion to Vernon & Coldstream (Effective 2025)

B.C.'s speculation and vacancy tax expanded in 2025 to include Vernon, Coldstream, and other Okanagan communities (part of 13 new areas).

Vacancy Tax Expansion Includes Vernon and Area

Residential owners declared for the first time in January 2025 (based on 2024 use), with primary residences and long-term rentals exempt.

The policy aims to discourage empty homes, increase housing availability, and fund affordable initiatives.

It sparked local debate on property impacts, affordability, and growth, with over 99% of B.C. homeowners typically exempt.

Demolition of the Treehouse Encampment on Highway 97 (October 2025)

A very visible homeless encampment along Highway 97 (near 48th Avenue/Swan Lake overpass), including a makeshift treehouse that drew public attention, was dismantled starting October 22, 2025.

A makeshift treehouse drew public attention,

The Ministry of Transportation and Transit cited safety/maintenance concerns for drivers and occupants ahead of winter.

Occupants received notice, and cleanup took weeks, with orange fencing and traffic impacts. BC Housing continues supportive efforts (e.g., new units in Vernon).

Death of Curtis Sagmoen at Tiki Motel (April 2025)

Long time North Okanagan resident Curtis Sagmoen (44, from Salmon Arm) was found unresponsive and deceased on April 10, 2025, at the Tiki Motor Village Inn in Vernon. RCMP responded to the sudden death at the motel.

Curtis Sagmoen was found unresponsive and deceased at the Tiki Motel

This marked the end of a years-long saga involving violence convictions and alleged associations with missing persons cases.

Vernon Property Tax Increase (2025)

The City of Vernon adopted its 2025 budget with a property tax increase (around 11% initially discussed, adjusted slightly based on assessments).

This addressed inflationary pressures, contractual obligations (RCMP/fire), infrastructure needs, and service maintenance.

The hike sparked discussion on affordability, with some residents noting impacts on renters (via passed-on costs) and calls for balanced economic development.

Completion and Re-Dedication of the New Kal Beach Rotary Pier (2025)

After demolition in late 2024 (due to rotting wood piles from weathering/wave action), the Rotary Pier at Kalamalka Beach was fully replaced and re-dedicated on May 31, 2025.

New Kal Beach Rotary Pier

The upgraded structure features steel piles/bracing, pressure-treated timber, and composite decking for durability.