West Howe Sound residents have a vision for their area and are working hard to see it fulfilled.
The latest draft of the new West Howe Sound official community plan (OCP) was presented June 29 at Eric Cardinall Hall.
Andrew Allen, planner for the Sunshine Coast Regional District (SCRD), outlined the plan's vision, objectives and goals to address the needs of Area F's varying terrain.
"It's unique in the way it was settled, and it's also unique in the geography it has," Allen said of the area.
Multiple goals assist in making up the plan, including matters of water conservation, affordable housing, reduction of greenhouse gases, and the importance of recognizing each neighbourood's distinct physical characteristics.
Another element of the plan is its commitment to smart growth principles. Mixed land uses, provision of transportation choices, creation of diverse housing opportunities, and encouragement of growth in existing communities are just some of the principles addressed in the plan related to smart growth.
The agricultural land reserve (ALR) also plays an important role in the plan as more than one-quarter of the land within the plan area is located within the ALR.
West Howe Sound director Lee Turnbull said the ALR was a major issue examined throughout the OCP process.
"What we really tried to do was take a look at the ALR and try to figure out some policies that would protect that," Turnbull said. "I see it as a trust. It's our trust that we need to protect to give to the future, because we have no idea what our needs will be."
The original OCP, adopted in 1988, was primarily based on land and resource information found within a 1987 OCP technical background report. It established a pattern of ALR protection with surrounding rural residential properties and containment of existing density nodes in neighbourhood areas.
An advisory committee was then established in 2008 consisting of 12 West Howe Sound residents and property owners. The committee met numerous times over the years, held open houses and worked with public feedback that contributed to further refinement of the plan. The 2011 draft OCP is based on work put in from previous years.
While things have come along steadily, both Allen and Turnbull said there have been some challenges, mostly concerning the ALR and drainage, but they are pleased with the draft result.
"The existing OCP is a very technical document and this one makes it, hopefully, a little more user friendly," said Allen.
"The original OCPs were written by planners for planners. These OCPs are written essentially for the community."
The SCRD will continue to seek further community feedback as bylaw readings begin at the board table and a formal public hearing is set.
