Thursday, June 20th provides you with another opportunity for input on how best to manage future growth in the Central Okanagan.

You’re invited to attend an Information Open House from 4:30 to 7:30 pm at the Regional District of Central Okanagan, 1450 KLO Road in Kelowna.  Information will be on display for drafts of the update to the Regional Growth Strategy and the Aggregate Supply and Demand Study, which will include a Site Suitability Checklist that local governments could use to guide their review and comments to the Province on future aggregate applications.

Information on both updates will be available online for those unable to attend the Open House by visiting www.futureok.ca.  A questionnaire, based on the information presented will also be available for people to complete with their thoughts and comments by Wednesday, July 10th.

The update to the Regional Growth Strategy will provide a coordinated and consistent approach for growth management across the region by establishing economic, environmental and social objectives to guide local governments in decisions to create a healthy and sustainable place to live, work and play.

The Regional Growth Strategy update is focusing on several key areas including Housing, Transportation, Regional Parks and Natural Areas, Economic Development and Climate Change.

Coordinator David Widdis says, “Another important part of the Regional Growth Strategy is the update of the Aggregate Supply and Demand Study.  This reviews various sources of aggregate supplies throughout the Central Okanagan and forecasts demand for those products over the next 20, 50 and 100 years.  It analyzes environmental and health related impacts of gravel pits and rock quarries such as groundwater, dust, noise and visual considerations.  As well, a Site Suitability Assessment tool has been prepared with the goal of providing local governments with a consistent approach when they assess the suitability of aggregate extraction applications, which are ultimately considered by the Provincial Government.”

Widdis adds, “Since the original Growth Strategy was developed 13 years ago, we seen dramatic growth across the Central Okanagan.  More than 256,000 people are projected to make this their home by 2031*, so it’s important that we have a meaningful Regional Growth Strategy to guide future decision making by local governments and help manage growth in a consistent manner.”

It is anticipated local governments and the Regional Board will consider the updated Regional Growth Strategy bylaw this fall.

More Information about the draft update of the Regional Growth Strategy and Aggregate Supply and Demand Study can be found online at futureok.ca or on the Regional District website at regionaldistrict.com/growth.

News from © iNFOnews, 2013