The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen are asking for residents to participate on an Official Community Plan citizen’s committee.
Those living in electoral area F (West Bench, Sage Mesa, Faulder, Greata Ranch, North Beach, Darke Lake and Eneas Lakes Provincial Parks and Meadow Valley) can apply.
“We are looking for a broad range of community members to provide insight, vision, enthusiasm and commitment to this process,” said electoral area F director Michael Brydon. “It is a great opportunity for residents to help shape the future direction of their community.”
It is expected that it will take about two years to complete the project with ample opportunities for public consultation.
Related: Penticton to spend 18 months on new community plan
An Official Community Plan is a provincially mandated, legal document containing objectives and policies to guide local government decisions on planning and land use management. It establishes land use designations, environmental, social and economic policy directions to support the plan’s larger objectives. It describes the long-term vision for the community and includes policies on such things as housing, commercial, industrial and institutional use, agriculture, recreation, transportation, infrastructure and environmental protection.
A Rural Land Use Plan was adopted for in 1988 with a review and update completed in 1997. In 2008 the land use plan was re-formatted; however, there were no substantive changes done at that time.
Anyone interested in helping to shape their community and help set strategic direction for the entire electoral area is encouraged to apply.
Application forms are available on the RDOS website (www.rdos.bc.ca) and hard copies are available at the RDOS office, 101 Martin St., Penticton.