Official Community Plan

C

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COURTENAY TODAY

Based on the current data available, Courtenay will likely remain as the primary employment centre in the Comox Valley over the life of this plan and beyond. The largest employment type in Courtenay in recent years is retail (approximately 2,000 jobs), followed by health care and social assistance (approximately 1,500 jobs), construction (approximately 1,000 jobs), and public administration (approximately 900 jobs). Local consultation indicates that there are nearly 4,000 people who identify as arts and culture workers. Agriculture is comprised of fewer jobs but forms an essential part of Courtenay’s identity and local food security . If the participation and employment trends remain steady, over 2,600 new jobs are projected in Courtenay over the next 20 years. 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 recent years, available and affordable housing also contributed to these high quality of life factors. With the COVID-19 pandemic still underway at the time this OCP was developed, the local economy will continue to face many unknown challenges. Businesses and entrepreneurs in the Comox Valley have identified key priorities for sustainable and strong economic recovery. 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.

PART C Thematic Policies