Courtenay Annual Report 2025 draft

2023–26

Status

Notes

Update the Zoning Bylaw to address OCP and provincial legislation

In progress

The Zoning Bylaw update (Phase 1), aligned with the updated OCP, will be presented to Council for first, second and third reading in March 2026. Phase 2 is expected to be underway in 2026, with a more substantial bylaw update anticipated in early 2027.

Update Official Community Plan (OCP) to address new provincial legislation

In progress

The OCP bylaw achieved second reading in February 2026, with a public hearing scheduled in May 2026.

Downtown Vitalization Action Plan (Downtown Local Area Plan – DLAP)

In progress

The third phase of the DVLAP project is underway, focusing on refinement and preparation of the plan for Council consideration in mid-2026.

Review and evaluate downtown development incentives (DLAP)

In progress

This work is on hold as focus and capacity have shifted to prioritize departmental operational efficiency and process improvements. Review and evaluation of downtown development incentives will be reinitiated after the 2026 local government election, upon confirmation of priorities.

Harmston Avenue Civic Precinct planning (DLAP)

In progress

This work has been reorganized under the DVLAP project. Council endorsed the Phase 3 scope of work of the DVLAP project in February 2025.

Implement Duncan Commons/ Downtown Courtenay Playbook, 5th Street staging and phasing (DLAP)

In progress

This work has been reorganized under the Downtown Vitalization Local Area Plan project.

Review and update downtown land use regulations and bylaws for consistency with OCP (DLAP)

In progress

This work has been reorganized under the Downtown Vitalization Local Area Plan project.

Prepare an options analysis to improve Cliffe Avenue and 5th Street intersection pedestrian facilities (DLAP)

In progress

This work is well advanced, with options analysis, design development and public consultation complete. The project is moving into delivery, with construction scheduled for spring 2026 to improve pedestrian safety and accessibility at the intersection.

Harmston Park Plan (DLAP)

In progress

This work has been reorganized under the Downtown Vitalization Local Area Plan project.

Plan and implement public bike parking and secure storage

In progress

Public bike parking and secure storage options were considered as part of the BC Transit Downtown Exchange project. Further direction is required to confirm scope, timing and implementation approach for this initiative.

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