City of Courtenay Official Community Plan - 2026 update

C

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assets are deeply valued by Courtenay residents, and they support important cultural and economic development within the region. In 2025, the City adopted its first Strategic Cultural Plan and corresponding implementation strategy, to highlight the impact and value of arts and culture in Courtenay and provide a framework to continue supporting and resourcing this important aspect of community life.

“Fish weirs, duck nets, berry picking techniques and clothing design met the needs of the K'ómoks and for generations provided variety, utility and sense of cultural uniqueness. Mask dances and rhythmic songs filled the winter nights and season. Property was distributed to guests in potlatches and elaborate naming ceremonies honoured the youth, leaders and elders of the communities… Following contact with Europeans [including]… a period of colonial policy and practices, the K'ómoks families have endured hardship and loss of land, resources and cultural connection. Modern leaders are striving to reclaim cultural expression and relationship with 'the land of plenty.'" – K'ómoks Comprehensive Community Plan (page 26)

PART C Thematic Policies