Approximately 90 people took in the introductory meeting for the Electoral Area B Official Community Plan planning process in Jaffray on Oct. 14.
“It was a great turnout and I would like to thank everyone for taking the time to participate in our first meeting,” said Regional District of East Kootenay Electoral Area B Director Stan Doehle. “Having strong participation from the community is a critical part of this process, so it was fantastic to see so many people come out to share their values, concerns and vision for the area.”
At the meeting, RDEK Planner Karen MacLeod provided an overview of existing regulations and an explanation of what the shift from the current Land Use Bylaw to an Official Community Plan and Zoning Bylaw means. Participants then broke out into working groups. “We had them identify the things they appreciate most about their community, discuss issues or concerns, and share their visions for the future,” said MacLeod.
A second introductory meeting was held on Oct. 20 at the Elko Community Hall.
“Over the next few weeks we will be compiling the information shared with us at the introductory meetings in Jaffray and Elko and through a survey that runs through the end of November. This information will then be brought back to the community in early 2016,” said MacLeod.
Residents and property owners not able to attend the introductory meetings are encouraged to fill out an online survey. The survey closes on Nov. 30 and can be accessed from the RDEK’s website.
The planning process is expected to take 18 months to complete and there will be several more opportunities for the public to participate. An Official Community Plan (OCP) is a long-term strategic planning document that reflects the community’s vision for the future while providing a policy framework to promote greater certainty in land use decision-making by the Regional District Board. The new OCP is proposed to cover the Jaffray, Tie Lake, Rosen Lake, Galloway and Elko areas.
More information about the OCP planning process can be found on the RDEK’s website at www.rdek.bc.ca.