Pent​icton hotel land‑use referendum

In mid‑July 2026 the Penticton City Council voted unanimously to keep the municipal library independent and, in the same meeting, approved the first steps toward a public referendum on changing the land‑use designation of the parcel adjacent to the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre. The proposal would lift a 1912 indenture restriction and allow a privately‑developed hotel, with potential lease revenue and property‑tax benefits. The council announced plans to place the question on the October municipal ballot and began public‑engagement activities, including a survey and informational videos.

By early August the council had formalised the referendum, confirming that the question will appear on the Oct. 17 ballot. At the same time, city officials warned residents that the Okanagan region was experiencing a severe drought, with water use failing to meet the required 20 % reduction under Stage 2 guidelines. Utilities managers urged immediate conservation measures to avoid stricter restrictions, linking the timing of the hotel‑development vote to broader concerns about water scarcity.