O’Keefe Ranch ready to close as Vernon fails to renew lease
Published 5:30 pm Friday, October 2, 2026
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A long-standing place of local history could soon be a distant memory.
The Historic O’Keefe Ranch & Interior Heritage Society says it was informed by the City of Vernon’s Chief Administrative Officer on Oct. 1 that the current city council has decided not to extend the lease agreement beyond its expiry date of March 31, 2027.
“As a result of this decision, the future of the Ranch is uncertain,” society president Douglas MacGregor said. “Unless an alternative arrangement is established, the ranch may cease operations when the current lease expires.”
The city owns the ranch, which was donated to the city in perpetuity by the Devonian Foundation.
Over the past several years, the society has sought clarity regarding the city’s long-term plans for the property.
Until now, no information has been provided regarding whether the city intends to operate the ranch directly, seek another operator, close the facility, or pursue another course of action.
Before the lease expires on March 31, 2027, the society will have to be dissolved and responsibility for the property will rest entirely with the city.
“This decision affects many organizations, businesses, and community partners that are part of ranch operations,” MacGregor said, noting the Pioneer Power Club, the North Okanagan Model Railway exhibit, Field of Screams, Hamming Farms, Rustler’s Table Restaurant, and local school district educational programs.
“While this outcome is deeply disappointing, the society respects the city’s authority as owner of the property. We must now begin planning for the orderly wind-down of operations and the disposition of society-owned assets, including antique stoves, carriages, stagecoaches, farm equipment, and livestock.”
The railway club’s long-term members are also devastated by the news, as it has leased the space since 1980.
“The future of the club is now in question,” said one club member, who wished to remain anonymous.
For decades, tens of thousands of volunteer hours have helped transform O’Keefe Ranch into one of the region’s premier historical attractions, welcoming visitors from across Canada and around the world.
The ranch represents an important part of the history and heritage of the North Okanagan.
“If O’Keefe Ranch is to remain open and accessible to future generations, community members who value this historic site are encouraged to share their views with current and future city council representatives,” MacGregor urges. “The future of the ranch now rests with the decisions that will be made in the months ahead.”
Without a new operating arrangement, O’Keefe Ranch will close its doors on March 31, 2027.