Residents are invited to drop by the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre on May 19, 2022 between 4 pm and 7 pm to discuss several current initiatives underway at the City. This instalment of the Hot Topics Open House format is planned during Local Government Week and Public Works Week and will include discussion about the North Gateway Redevelopment and Investment Strategy, Development Cost Charges, the Transportation Master Plan, the 435 Green Ave W proposal and the October 15 election.
This selection of topics encourages discussion about the many aspects of development in a community:
- North Gateway - The North Gateway plan sets a long-term vision for the north entrance of the City that aims to create a welcoming, liveable neighborhood complete with hotels, restaurants, boutique shops, and open public spaces in a walkable and bike-able setting. Residents are invited to see and comment on the draft plan and policies that will be shared with Council at an upcoming meeting.
- Development Cost Charges - Development Cost Charges are the main source of non-tax or ratepayer funding available to help with the costs of infrastructure related to growth, such as what is proposed in the North Gateway Plan. The City is developing a new DCC Bylaw and is seeking input from stakeholders and the community. A presentation on DCCs will be offered at 5 pm for anyone interested in more detail about this work.
- Transportation Master Plan – This plan identifies the transportation projects needed to support growth that may be eligible for funding through DCCs as well as those that are needed for our existing population. With some of the key projects in the plan moving ahead such as the Lake-to-Lake Bike Route and the Point Intersection, it is a good opportunity for residents to see how this plan will improve safety and connectivity while reducing the environmental impact of our transportation systems. Come and see the future for pedestrian, cycling, transit and road networks.
- 435 Green Ave W Proposal – Residents are invited to discuss the proposed development of an 84-unit strata townhouse development at 435 Green Ave W. This proposal is one of several recent applications that require an amendment to the Official Community Plan in order to allow for housing to be added in established areas of the City.
One topic that will also be discussed at the open house that is not directly related to development is the upcoming election.
- 2022 Election – In support of Local Government Week, the City is providing an opportunity for residents interested in the inner workings of City Hall or running for Council to speak with the Chief Election Officer and members of the Corporate Services team.
“With it being Local Government Awareness Week and National Public Works Week, this is a great opportunity to learn about how your City works and to ask staff about a variety of important and timely topics in the community,” said Penticton Mayor John Vassilaki. “We hope to see you there.”
All of the display materials that will be available at the open house will also be published at shapeyourcitypenticton.ca for residents who are unable to attend.