OCP adopted

(Oct 15, 2008) 107.5 KISSFM Pete McIntyre:

After more than two years of planning and input, the city of Vernon has adopted its new official community plan. The document will guide future growth and land use. Councillor Buffy Baumbrough tells KISS FM, it's something every resident should be aware of. "It's a big deal for two reasons. One, because the staff worked so hard to ensure that there was widespread opportunity for community input----there was over a hundred chances----, that this is the community's document, so it reflects the vision and direction people want to see for Vernon." Baumbrough says the plan also looks at issues that traditionally haven't been considered. Barry Beardsell was the lone council member to vote against the new OCP. He's concerned it doesn't protect a highway bypass corridor, and that changes to the plan will only be allowed once a year.

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Morning Star Editorial Oct. 16: OCPs not written in stone

Expectations will be high with Vernon's new official community plan, but everyone must understand that the document is not cast in stone. OCPs set a tone when it comes to development, but in no way are land designations firm. Property owners have the right to apply for amendments, and it's up to council to consider the merits of the proposal, based partly on public input, and to make a final decision. Allowing changes doesn't mean that the OCP is being undermined or watered-down. It just reflects the fact that the needs of property owners and the community change. OCPs are living, breathing documents and, as such, they will evolve. But that aside, the new OCP should provide residents and developers with some clear ground rules. Development is obviously wanted as a way of bolstering the economy and providing a variety of housing, but the sprawl that we have seen in recent years cannot continue. The concept of neighbourhood centres where people can work and shop where they live is sound. It would allow people to access the amenities they need while parking their vehicles at home. Is the OCP perfect? No, and no document could meet all of the needs and wishes of every resident, entrepreneur and special interest group. But when you consider the extensive public consultation that took place over two years, this OCP is as good as it gets. The next step now is for the city to enact the vision of the OCP through policy directives. Part of that process, though, will also include considering land use amendments, and no matter how much some people oppose that, it's reality in a society based on property ownership and democracy.