Official Community Plan

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. Work with the Comox Valley Farmers Market Association to secure a permanent site and facility for its year-round operation in a suitable and accessible location with necessary supportive amenities, preferably near the downtown. Ensure adequate space and amenities such as loading zones, washrooms, water and electricity are provided whenever a farmers market is planned. Develop a concept plan for the downtown Courtenay Market Street vision as described in the Downtown Playbook (2016). 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 retails 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 more increased food production and sales activity. All guidelines, and any applicable bylaws, shall be prepared to comply with current requirements of 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

FS 7

FS 8

PART C Thematic Policies