Official Community Plan
February Growth Scenarios and Climate Action Engagement
To start, Please watch the Introductory Engagement Presentation
The presentation (16 minutes) introduces the project, information on the projected population and housing growth, and project climate impacts on Port Alberni.
After watching the presentation, proceed to the four engagement STATIONS below, starting at STATION 1
Background Information
VIDEO: What is the Official Community Plan (OCP)?
The Port Alberni OCP maps how our community will develop overContinue reading
February Growth Scenarios and Climate Action Engagement
To start, Please watch the Introductory Engagement Presentation
The presentation (16 minutes) introduces the project, information on the projected population and housing growth, and project climate impacts on Port Alberni.
After watching the presentation, proceed to the four engagement STATIONS below, starting at STATION 1
Background Information
VIDEO: What is the Official Community Plan (OCP)?
The Port Alberni OCP maps how our community will develop over the next two decades. This plan shapes the everyday things you experience – like housing, economic development, transportation, land use, how we tackle climate change, and much more.
Snapshot documents
These were developed to highlight the Touchstones created through collaboration with the community in 2022, serving as guiding principles for upcoming policy development.
• Active Lifestyle • Climate Change • Diverse, Balanced Economy • Ecosystem Protection & Leadership • Healthy, Vibrant, Inclusive Community • Livability | • Population • Reconciliation • Resilient Urban Growth & Development • Responsible Infrastructure Management (A Reconciliation Snapshot document will be created in collaboration with Hupača̓sath First Nation & Tseshaht First Nation.) |
Please take some time to review the documents and bring your questions and ideas to the engagement events.
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Share STATION 1: Growth Concept Ideas on Facebook Share STATION 1: Growth Concept Ideas on Twitter Share STATION 1: Growth Concept Ideas on Linkedin Email STATION 1: Growth Concept Ideas link
STATION 1: Growth Concept Ideas
2 months agoCLOSED: This ideas has concluded.Step 1: Please watch the presentation first.
It provides an introduction to the project, information on the current situation, some initial population and housing projections, and projected climate impacts on Port Alberni.
Two scenarios are provided to get conversations started on growth:
- Business As Usual Growth - how Port Alberni has traditionally developed over time
- Alternative Growth Scenario - ideas on how growth could reflect the OCP Community Touchstones (guiding principles for the OCP).
STEP 2: Participate in Stations 1 - 4 after watching the presentation!
NOTE: other participants will see your User Name. The email address you used to sign up with is not public but visible only to the project team.
Please share your ideas on the Alternative Growth Scenario opportunities. You can also vote for or comment on others' ideas! Once you have done that, proceed to STATION 2: Concerns.
C Manarey2 months agoWaterfront preservation and Burde St preservation
As the city grows and develops, I would like to see continued access to waterfront and views preserved with esthetic taken into consideration for new building development. I also strongly wish to see the Burde St green space preserved as I think there are more opportune spaces to consider such as housing near the major shopping centre by Walmart. Another commenter touches that there is a great number of services and resources present already, why not focus newer/modern housing in an area that can be quickly reached by transit or by foot.
0 comment7TheresaS2 months agoYes, Redevelop the Uptown Core, and Hurry
This area of town is amazing yet many old buildings have been abandoned. Where else in BC can you find views like this that are not seen except through broken windows? Where else could you access waterfront steps away from your brand new apartment or condominium? The City can kick start revitalization with expropriation and demolish those rotting structures laden with lead and asbestos; consolidate developable parcels and market the land for high density. This is the right place for a lot of housing with a mix of residential-serving commercial, such as already exist - RR Meat & Veg; Steampunk; Fandangle; Healthy Habits; Mini Price; Cloud City; Ark; Mobius; many good restaurants; etc. Lets see more new Thunderbird-style buildings with parking under; more balconies; and streets built for people to use and enjoy.
2 comments17val2 months agoWe need much better public transit
In order for public transit to be useful and therefore useable, it has to be go where people need it to go. Buses need to go from the neighbourhoods to the main town hubs and these buses need to go with a regular frequency. Only then can we start leaving our cars at home and taking the bus.
1 comment19Doid2 months agoChain up areas on both ends of the hump .
The highway needs improvements we know . Why not include chain up areas on ether end of the hump for heavy trucks to chain up during the snowy days of winter.
0 comment0Growthmindedcitizen2 months agoBurde street development and somass land development is great for the community
With economic costs rising, the city's best avenue for growth is to increase the tax base. Burde street/somass land developments are the best ways to handle this. It will allow future tax revenues to help build better amenities and to attract more middle income families from across the province to help bolster our work force. Attracting workers who work remote would help our town grow, and by giving them reasonably priced housing that comes from big projects, this could really move the community forward. Green space and trails can be easily expanded with the growth we would see from these projects. All of our homes used to sit where forests/animals were, we need to stop denying the next generation from being able to enjoy what we have.
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Share STATION 2: What concerns do you have about the Alternative Growth Scenario? on Facebook Share STATION 2: What concerns do you have about the Alternative Growth Scenario? on Twitter Share STATION 2: What concerns do you have about the Alternative Growth Scenario? on Linkedin Email STATION 2: What concerns do you have about the Alternative Growth Scenario? linkCLOSED: This ideas has concluded.
The Alternative Growth Scenario supports the community Touchstones (created through collaboration with the community in 2022, serving as guiding principles for upcoming policy development.)
Share your concerns about the Alternative Growth Scenario, and vote or comment on others' concerns.
Then go to STATION 3: Additional Ideas or Questions on Growth.
AnnEm2 months agoIts assumed humans cause climate change . Extreme climate occurred before fossil fuel use. Censorship of voices. https://clintel.org/
Canada is implementing Agenda2030 , United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
0 comment0Melissabartley3 months agoLosing the landscape
Will policies be put into effect that will preserve the view when developing for density is being considered? Will there be height restrictions on buildings? Will there be policies governing how buildings must look to keep the areas attractive and not concrete blocks?
3 comments6Jim2 months agoWhy two growth scenarios?
Over twenty years (and why aren't we thinking of 100 or 500?) there are thousands of alternative scenarios that will play out. Isn't it more important to identify the principles for our future, and let those principles guide our development. The planners seem to want us to define a particular growth scenario (that incidentally allows for development of one important natural area, and the development of the Somass Lands in contradiction of the best use of that land for restoration of natural habitat, recreation, and cultural values.)
2 comments2towhee3 months agoThe mall at Cherry Creek and Johnston provides services that people in Port Alberni need and can't get elsewhere.
It also is the most convenient shopping place for people living in Cherry Creek. It won't wither away if the city stops providing bus transport--most people drive there anyway. To reduce our carbon footprint, the city should allow densification in this area, and build a high-level pedestrian/bicycle bridge across Rogers Creek Rogers
4 comments1Port Alberni Pal2 months agoNeed stronger demonstrations of climate and environment commitment
It is possible that with the Burde street development, the city has simply gotten too excited and ahead of themselves over a project that people in the community very much disapprove of. It seems the community wants to be going in just about the exact *opposite* approach to this development, which makes this one seem utterly out of touch. Others have noticed that there is no scenario whose map shows the beaver pond area left alone. Even though feedback on this point has been consistent, there are signs the development keeps getting pushed along quietly, like there’s room for compromise or that that is an appropriate thing to expect in these particular circumstances. This is simply too audacious and nonsensical of a development to pursue, and the city needs to acknowledge that if the public wishes, the development will not be pursued further. Instead it is usually paternalistically framed as though citizens need to come to a compromise on a bad idea, that we are under some obligation to consent to at least some lower density development in the very same area we’ve recognized is grossly inappropriate for development. It seems we’re in this odd position where the people here in port have to keep repeating that, yes, indeed, we are serious about climate change, environmental and human wellbeing and we understand how these things are connected. Now we just need a city that will appreciate this and get to work creating truly exciting opportunities that align with our more authentic, healthy, and green community aspirations. Think climate corps community opportunities, supporting grassroots initiatives, green infrastructure programs at NIC, rewilding and restoring ecosystems to maximize our chance at climate resiliency. We should be a leading example for other communities wishing to break from the same old unsustainable, uninspiring, disconnecting, top-down approach to development.
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Share STATION 3: Additional Ideas or Questions on Growth on Facebook Share STATION 3: Additional Ideas or Questions on Growth on Twitter Share STATION 3: Additional Ideas or Questions on Growth on Linkedin Email STATION 3: Additional Ideas or Questions on Growth link
STATION 3: Additional Ideas or Questions on Growth
2 months agoCLOSED: This ideas has concluded.Share additional ideas or questions on growth in Port Alberni below. Once completed, proceed to STATION 4: Climate Action.Community Touchstones:Business As Usual (Traditional Growth Model):
Alternative Scenario (Based on Community Touchstones):
stinbc2 months agoCreate policy around no new pavement.
Port Alberni has a high density of pavement and road space per resident which creates a tremendous tax and maintenance burden. What about creating bike lanes and additional sidewalk space out of the existing pavement space rather than adding new?
1 comment7Rainbird2 months agoThe city seriously needs a bandshell.
Could the city not partner with community groups to raise money for one in Gyro Park, Roger Creek Park or some other similar area?
0 comment5collin.middleton2 months agoExisting Skatepark -> Multi-Use Park
Remodel the existing skateboard park and surrounding area into an all-wheel adventure facility. Renovate or rebuild the skatepark to be more accessible and promote skill development and advancement for all types of 'action' sports (skateboarding, bmx, scooters, etc.). Provide shade and cover for all-season use. Utilize the surrounding area to build a mountain bike skills/pump track. Numerous BC communities have recently invested in these new kinds of facilities (Cumberland, Nanaimo, Gabriola, Colwood, Victoria, Revelstoke, Fernie, Castlegar, Powell River, etc.) and they have been huge successes promoting active lifestyles, safe & inclusive spaces for all, and creating additional tourism opportunities.
0 comment1SP_R2 months agoAccessible greenspace is necessary for healthy communities
The social, recreational, and health benefits of the green spaces located within City boundaries at the periphery of existing neighborhoods should not be overlooked. These easily accessible areas are important and utilized by all demographics of the community at all times of the year. Development of these areas should not occur until all other urban growth options within the City's already developed areas are exhausted.
0 comment1Melissabartley3 months agoPedestrian access only areas
Would port Alberni consider a pedestrian only area at harbour quay instead of allowing cars to drive and park right at the water? Businesses could open patios, there could be a theatre space for summer concerts and community events and maybe seating where community members can gather without worrying about vehicle traffic.
3 comments16 -
Share STATION 4: Climate Action Feedback, Ideas on Facebook Share STATION 4: Climate Action Feedback, Ideas on Twitter Share STATION 4: Climate Action Feedback, Ideas on Linkedin Email STATION 4: Climate Action Feedback, Ideas link
STATION 4: Climate Action Feedback, Ideas
2 months agoCLOSED: This ideas has concluded.STEP 1:
Please ensure you watched the Introductory Engagement Presentation provided HERE
STEP 2:
Indicate your level of support for climate mitigation (reducing Greenhouse Gas emissions) and adapting to climate change in Port Alberni between now and 2042 in the survey HERE.
STEP 3:
Share additional ideas for reducing Greenhouse Gas emissions or adapting to climate change by posting an idea below! Remember, you can vote for others' ideas as well.
collin.middleton2 months agoAdopt the provincial Riparian Areas Protection Regulations (RAPR)
The city should adopt RAPR to ensure adequate measures are in place to protect sensitive aquatic habitats when considering development applications. RAPR has been adopted by many other municipalities in BC that are facing increasing development and population growth pressures (e.g. RDN, Langford, Sooke). As it seems the city is casually trying to move ahead with the Pacific Mayfair Estates development (seemingly contrary to public support for the project), they should do so in a way that lessens their blatant conflict of interest with taking action on the climate crisis and at least meets the provincial standard for protecting riparian and aquatic ecosystems in the face of impending development.
0 comment3GrowthForPublicGood2 months agoPrioritize climate justice
The City needs to respond to climate change - they will either do it proactively or reactively, but either way, they will respond. Frankly, I'm surprised that they are giving the general public the opportunity to choose a "let's panic after the disaster" option in their survey. I hope the City responds proactively and utilizes the opportunity to use an intersectional/climate justice lens. For example, we should all recognize that the poor, sick, and isolated are the most vulnerable to any crisis. Analysis of the 2021 metro Vancouver heat dome deaths have shown that material and social deprivation was the largest risk factor for mortality. If we understand that climate change impacts are the most severe for vulnerable people, we can understand that climate change work is also social work - building affordable housing, responding to the drug crisis, creating meaningful jobs and material affordability - all of that is climate work and the City needs to be proactive on all these fronts and explicit about their holistic response to the climate crisis. The City should use a climate justice lens when making decisions about climate action. For example, let us say we want to reduce emissions due to transportation. There are multiple ways to do this. One way is to create an EV charging network that prioritizes allowing (often wealth, well-to-do) car owners to charge their electric vehicles conveniently around the city. That may reduce emissions. But using a climate justice lens, the City can ask "can we achieve the same net reduction in emissions in a way that provides greater transportation options for less materially-wealthy residents?". One way to do that is to electrify and expand public transportation. Same emissions reductions, better social outcomes. Combining emissions reductions and increased climate resilience with improved social outcomes is a better use of monetary resources and will build a more equal and resilient community!
3 comments11Smartcity2 months agoGrowth management strategies need to take into account wildfire risk. Extending the community further into forest lands is shortsighted.
1 comment11Ben Boudreau2 months agoRestrict Invasive Plant Sales
No more invasive plant sales. These plants weaken our ecosystem - they choke out native plants and habitat for the flora and fauna. An example of this in town - take a look in any of our gullies, most of the trees are covered in English ivy, slowly suffocating the trees they’re growing on. Why is English ivy, and other invasives like it, still sold by all the stores in town?
0 comment6collin.middleton2 months agoPromote local food security
Update bylaws and zoning to to allow for more small-scale urban/backyard agriculture. Create community garden spaces and support organizations that promote cooperative models of food production and distribution.
0 comment1
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Videos
- Port Alberni is growing and changing. The province has issued new legislation for housing. The community of Port Alberni has told us what is important to them. The OCP document will guide decisions about what is important to Port Alberni (Visions and Touchstones), address the legislative changes, and be thoughtful about the growth and change projected for Port Alberni. Return to the OCP home page and start at STATION 1 Growth Concept Ideas!
- The City of Port Alberni is ready to launch the next phase of the engagement process for the Official Community Plan (OCP), a blueprint that sets out the long-term vision and goals to guide our community’s growth and success over the long term.
OCP Project Timeline
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February 8 - 19: Public Engagement, Growth and Climate Action
Official Community Plan has finished this stageFebruary 8 - 19: Online, or,
February 14th or 15th: Echo Centre (drop in event), 4:30 - 8:30
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March 8: Social Sector Workshop
Official Community Plan has finished this stage -
March 9: Community Representative Team (CRT) Workshop
Official Community Plan has finished this stage -
April 3: Tsheshaht First Nation Engagement
Official Community Plan has finished this stage -
April: Report to Council and Public
Official Community Plan is currently at this stageWhat We Heard Report: Public Engagement - Growth and Climate Action
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May (TBC): Hupacasath First Nation Engagement
this is an upcoming stage for Official Community Plan -
May 4: Community Representative Team (CRT) Workshop
this is an upcoming stage for Official Community PlanOCP policy scan and priorities
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May: Public Feedback
this is an upcoming stage for Official Community PlanSurvey to check in on identified policy priority areas
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May: Update to Council and the Public
this is an upcoming stage for Official Community PlanDraft OCP policy priorities
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June - August: Draft OCP document developed
this is an upcoming stage for Official Community Plan -
September: Public Feedback
this is an upcoming stage for Official Community PlanDraft OCP document
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October: Draft OCP Bylaw Document
this is an upcoming stage for Official Community PlanBased on public feedback in September, a draft OCP Bylaw Document will be prepared for the Council process in November
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November: OCP Considered by Council
this is an upcoming stage for Official Community PlanCouncil considers First Reading of the OCP Bylaw
Public Hearing scheduled for OCP Bylaw
Documents
- OCP Snapshots
- OCP Growth, Climate, Policy Engagement 2024
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PHASE 1: Vision & Touchstones Development
- 2022 10 WWHR_FINAL Vision and Touchstones PA OCP (1.81 MB) (pdf)
- 2022 08 Draft Vision & Touchstones v.1.pdf (240 KB) (pdf)
- 2022 04 WWH REPORT: VISION COMMUNITY SURVEY 1.pdf (3.39 MB) (pdf)
- 2022 06 02 VISION ENGAGEMENT SUMMARY_WORKSHOP Final.pdf (3.74 MB) (pdf)
- 2022_07_14_OCP Update_Committee Report_FULL PKG.pdf (2.76 MB) (pdf)
FAQs
- What is an Official Community Plan (OCP) review?
- Why is the Official Community Plan important?
- How does an Official Community Plan (OCP) help us reach our community goals?
- Who does an OCP affect and how is it used?
- Why is there such a focus on land use and development policy?
- Why is public input needed?
- What is the difference between the Official Community Plan (OCP) and the Zoning Bylaw?
- Where can I get more information about the Official Community Plan Review?
Who's Listening
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Email ocp@portalberni.ca -
Email ocp@portalberni.ca