The City of Parksville has developed a new Official Community Plan to address issues such as smart growth, climate change, downtown revitalization, sustainable tourism and shoreline protection.

The plan is built around sustainability goals that will guide future land use and development policies. These goals include support for mixed-use development and compact housing, alternatives to automobile transportation, increasing water and energy conservation and lowering GHG emissions.

The city plan will support the development of a "live-work" culture, protect the community's natural heritage and encourage residents to buy locally and to explore the local environment. 

With the new Official Plan in place, Parksville is poised for its future as an attractive, economically vibrant community with sustainable amenities and services for permanent residents and tourists alike.

Results

Environmental Economic Social
  • Reduce per capita GHG emissions to 33% of 2007 levels by 2020
  • Reduce municipal CO2 emissions by at least two tonnes annually
  • Factor climate change adapta­tion into all new development
  • Support a diverse local economy
  • Build productive relationships with local economic sectors 
  • Encourage local purchasing
  • Support mixed land-use to pro­mote a "live-work" environ­ment
  • Provide opportunities to live, work and play in the city, to reduce travel and improve health
  • Offer alternatives to automobile transportation
  • Develop a more walkable community

Challenges

  • Many members of the public found the legal requirements for an Official Community Plan difficult to understand and were frustrated that some of their suggestions could not be incorporated.
  • It is difficult to involve busy young adults in the community. The youngest residents attending public hearings were in their mid fifties.

Lessons learned

  • Manage public expectations. The content of an OCP is strictly governed by the Local Government Act. Explain to stakeholders how this limits the plan to land use or community development.
  • Hire an independent facilitator or consultant to manage the committees, encourage open discussion and avoid getting caught up in political issues.
  • Build flexibility into the planning process. There will almost certainly be delays and requirements for additional resources.

Resources

Partners and collaborators

Project contact

Blaine C. Russell, 
Director of Community Planning
City of Parksville, B.C. 
T. 250-954-4660

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