City of Courtenay Official Community Plan - 2026 update

C

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COURTENAY TODAY

Employment data shows that Courtenay is and will likely remain as the primary employment centre in the Comox Valley over the life of this plan and beyond. Updated employment data were not obtained for the 2026 OCP review, but data obtained for the 2022 OCP indicated that the largest employment type in Courtenay was retail (approximately 2,000 jobs), followed by health care and social assistance (approximately 1,500 jobs), construction (1,000 jobs), and public administration (approximately 900 jobs). 2022 OCP consultation indicated that a significant number of people identify as arts and cultural workers (nearly 4,000). In a global market where ideas, investments, and talents can flow across borders, unique and high quality of life community assets are essential to attract them. Courtenay, and the wider region, have diverse recreation and lifestyle opportunities that are recognized as being key factors in attracting and retaining

the next generation of entrepreneurs and skilled talent. Until recently, available and affordable housing also contributed to these high quality of life factors. In the 2022 OCP update, businesses and entrepreneurs in the Comox Valley identified key priorities for a sustainable and strong local economy. These include: • affordable housing ; • shop local and the arts; • agriculture; • tech and digital support; • child care; • transportation and regional connectivity; • streamlining regulatory processes for businesses including through good regional governance.

Since the 2022 OCP, further strategies have been developed supporting local economic development including the Comox Valley Tourism Strategy Framework and the Courtenay Strategic Cultural Plan.

PART C Thematic Policies