City of Courtenay Official Community Plan - 2026 update

C

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Objective 1 All residents have access to affordable, healthy, culturally appropriate, and local food outlets within walking distance, including food access services and programs when needed

Policies

FS 1

Support establishment of small-scale healthy food retail options such as both year-round and seasonal farmers markets, small to mid-size grocery stores, mobile food vendors, bakeries and restaurants within or in proximity to the Town and Neighbourhood Centres and Corridors including the Downtown Town Centre. Support Comox Valley Farmers Market Association in their efforts to secure a permanent year round location and provide them a seasonal market, preferably downtown, to support community activation in spaces with adequate infrastructure amenities (i.e., loading zones, washrooms, water, and electricity). Develop a concept plan for the suitable location of a “food precinct” within Courtenay that offers and promotes local food production, distribution, and enjoyment as its defining character and place-making opportunity, complemented by an appropriate range of food supportive businesses, activities, and spaces. Encourage large multi-residential mixed-use developments to include retail commercial uses such as small grocery stores or specialized food retailers within the site, where appropriate. Work in partnership with food security organizations and regional jurisdictions to ensure food access services and programs are available when needed. Develop guidelines for food production and sales on private lands to support increased food production and sales activity. All guidelines, and any applicable bylaws, shall be prepared in compliance with current provincial and federal regulations for food production, safety, handling and sales, while responsibly managing wildlife attractants.

FS 2

FS 3

FS 4

FS 5

FS 6

PART C Thematic Policies