Scott Stanfield
Record staff
Courtenay council has asked for a staff report before it considers using the Comox Valley Sustainability Strategy (CVSS) as a guiding strategic document.
The Comox Valley Sustainability Network has asked council to use the document when considering development applications, determining budgets, and setting priorities. Other requests include:
•Develop policies and incentives to support infill and re-development within existing built areas to accommodate future growth in order to support the pedestrian orientation of the Regional Growth Strategy;
•Work with the development and design industry to establish guidelines to increase performance on sustainability;
•Establish a transportation hierarchy for planning, design and capital spending.
Coun. Doug Hillian notes council is already employing a number of the requests.
The CVSS cost $360,000 to develop, the result of collaboration between four local governments, input by the community, and review by the public and various government agencies. It is a regional plan that creates new knowledge and leading approaches to sustainability for Valley communities.
“The strategy will guide the policies and plans of regional and local governments,” the Comox Valley Regional District website states.
The CVRD has finished the first phase of its sustainability strategy implementation plan in electoral areas. Highlights include a home energy incentive program, rural transit shelters, cycling amenities such as signage and artistic-themed bike racks, and renewable energy demonstration projects such as photovoltaic systems.