The Integrated Official Community Plan (IOCP) 2040 was officially introduced to the people of Hope during an open house on Tuesday in council chambers at District Hall.
“The IOCP is intended to express a community’s goals, policies and aspirations for the future”, said a District of Hope press release statement.
The event gave District staff the rare opportunity to present Phase 3 of its IOCP plan, which is still in the finalization stages, but open to the public consultation process.
Attendees flocked to the plan which was displayed on several boards around council chambers. Members of the community were able to have a look at the extensive guide, which will inform community decision making over the next 20 years.
The open house allowed for people to review, comment, and discuss with one another elements of the plan, as well as having the opportunity to participate and contribute to what is a considered a living community document.
Components of the IOCP were also outlined on a white board, as District staff explained the various elements to guests.
The IOCP encompasses an Integrated Community Sustainability Plan (ICSP), an Age-Friendly Plan and a Land Use Management Plan (including updated Development Permit Area guidelines and Hazard Mapping).
The three plans will help encourage community growth, while protecting its citizens, and breaking down certain barriers to help with the development of land use, and to encourage business to come to Hope.
“The plan is 60 to 70 per cent done,” said District Planner Howie Choy. “Phase 1 and 2 have been completed and now we’re just finalizing Phase 3”.
Phase 1 of the IOCP targeted vision and goals.
Phase 2 constituted a unique ‘Ideas Jam’ process that outlined possible options, strategies and actions, using the insight of 130 people who developed 50 plus big ideas and 100 plus actions that the District could take to improve the economic, social, and environmental conditions in Hope.
Phase 3 is an amalgamation of the research gathered from Phase 1 and 2, as well as the finalized IOCP and Bylaw Development Plan.
“2040 seems like a long time from now, but when I see the plan broken down, it all makes sense”, said Brenda Meikle, Hope resident. “When I look at the projected population number on the board, I think it’s low — I think more people are going to come to Hope”.
