“Uncertain Future: O’Keefe Ranch Lease in Limbo”

During harvest season, the North Okanagan’s historic O’Keefe Ranch is bustling with pumpkin decorations and a corn maze etched in nearby fields.

Douglas MacGregor, president of The Historic O’Keefe Ranch & Interior Heritage Society, highlighted the strong community attachment to the ranch, with many locals reminiscing about childhood visits and now bringing their own children to experience it.

Established in 1867 as a functioning cattle ranch, O’Keefe Ranch transitioned into a public attraction in 1967, drawing in tourists and residents eager to delve into farming and agriculture knowledge.

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However, the future of this cherished site faces uncertainty following Vernon city council’s unanimous decision to decline extending the society’s lease without clear plans for the 55-acre property and its century-old structures.

MacGregor expressed concerns about the lack of transparency regarding the city’s intentions, whether it involves selling, transferring operations to another entity, or closing the site altogether.

The society proposed initial 20-year lease extension terms, later revising it to a one-year extension proposal.

‘Not sustainable’

Vernon’s Chief Administrative Officer, Carey Herd, acknowledged the current operational model’s unsustainability in a letter to the society.

City records show exceeding financial support of $4.12 million over 30 years, well beyond the initial $300,000 envisioned in the lease agreement.

An assessment in 2024 identified a requirement of $2.875 million in capital investments over a decade to maintain the historic premises.

The proposed 20-year lease extension from the society would impose an additional financial burden on the city, potentially exceeding $550,000 annually for operational and capital expenses.

MacGregor acknowledged the financial struggles faced by the ranch but emphasized its operational continuity through extensive volunteer contributions, including numerous hours from community members.

He highlighted the educational role of the ranch, hosting students and attracting visitors from various regions and abroad, contributing significantly to the local tourism industry.

MacGregor clarified the society’s objective is not solely about continuing ranch operations but preserving the property as a historical landmark.

An online petition has been initiated to advocate for the site’s preservation as a historical asset.

Vernon authorities expressed intentions to explore sustainable options for the property’s future, recognizing its historical value while ensuring financial viability.

If a new operational agreement is not reached, O’Keefe Ranch is at risk of closure upon the expiry of its current lease on March 31, 2027.