Gabriola trustees seek broader input on OCP review
The committee asked staff to prepare public-engagement options and draft connectivity and economy policies for wider review.
The Denman Firestarter · Governance · 2025-03-28 · updated 2026-10-03 · Gabriola Island
Staff will prepare options for public engagement on Gabriola’s Official Community Plan review for the committee’s April 17 meeting, after trustees discussed how to involve more residents in the process.[1]
Trustees said they had heard concerns that the focus groups, limited to up to 12 participants, were too small and left some people feeling excluded. Staff said options could include broader public feedback on draft policies and a day for interested groups to meet with staff and trustees.[2]
The committee also asked staff to prepare draft policy for broader public review on connectivity and economy. Staff said the current survey deadline had been extended to the middle of April, and that survey and focus-group feedback would inform updated draft policies for further engagement through the summer.[1]
Discussion included safer walking and cycling routes, possible community or commercial hubs, and housing affordability as a challenge for local businesses. Staff said the next policy drafts would return to trustees before going out for public review.[2]
Sources
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Gabriola Island Local Trust Committee Special Meeting Minutes, March 28, 2025
that the Gabriola Island Local Trust Committee request staff to prepare options for public engagement on the Official Community Plan Review for the Local Trust Committee meeting of April 17, 2025.
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Transcript of the meeting recording (250328B)
people are feeling excluded or not included
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