Courtenay Annual Report 2025 draft

Communications Social media and evolving communications channels In 2025, the City refined its approach to digital communications to ensure information remains clear, accessible and focused on service delivery. Public commenting on Facebook and Instagram posts was disabled to maintain consistent moderation standards, while the City’s X account is no longer actively maintained. Facebook remains the City’s largest social media channel, with growing audiences on Instagram and LinkedIn. The City’s YouTube channel continues to provide access to Council meetings and informational videos, with more than 560 subscribers and an expanding video library. In early 2026, the City launched a monthly e-newsletter to provide timely updates directly to residents. Engagement efforts continue to prioritize the City’s online platform, Engage Comox Valley, where community members can access project information, participate in surveys and provide input through moderated channels.

Award-winning website redesign The City of Courtenay’s redesigned municipal website, courtenay.ca, launched in July 2025 and has since received a Gold AVA Digital Award for excellence in digital design, accessibility and user experience. Developed in collaboration with Victoria-based digital agency Upanup, the new website was shaped by community consultation, resident survey feedback and staff input. The redesign focused on improving access to information, supporting transparency and delivering a more user-friendly digital experience for residents, businesses and visitors. Built to meet WCAG 2.2 Level AA accessibility standards, the site features improved navigation, enhanced search functionality, mobile-friendly design and a flexible content management system. It also prominently links to the City’s engagement platform, making it easier for the public to participate in projects and policy development. City staff received training to support long-term content management and accessibility best practices, helping ensure the website remains current, inclusive and responsive to evolving community needs.

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