Prince George Official Community Plan Passes Key Third Reading

UPDATE: The City of Prince George has just approved the crucial third reading of its revised Official Community Plan (OCP) following a public hearing held on October 1, 2023. This decision is vital as the provincial government mandates all local governments to update their community plans by the end of 2025, specifically to address housing targets.

With the OCP on track to meet the impending deadline, the fourth reading of the bylaw must be completed before December 31. This plan serves as a significant framework for land use and development in the municipality, affecting residents’ lives and the local environment.

The public hearing, which took place at city hall, attracted between 25 and 30 attendees, showcasing the community’s engagement in the planning process. Mayor Simon Yu expressed gratitude for the public’s interest, highlighting the importance of community involvement in municipal governance.

During the meeting, Deanna Wasnik, Director of Planning and Buildings, provided an overview of the OCP’s development process. However, not all feedback was positive. Barry Booth, a wildlife biologist with 25 years of residency in Prince George, criticized the plan for scaling down environmental objectives. He urged the city to incorporate more information on local ecosystems, emphasizing the need for collaboration with wildlife experts.

Another speaker, Cameron Beck, acknowledged improvements in food security policies but expressed disappointment that key elements from earlier drafts were omitted. His remarks echoed a broader concern about the adequacy of food security strategies within the OCP, which he believes other municipalities have prioritized more effectively.

The conversation also touched on the community’s desire to protect green spaces, particularly Ginter’s Green. Jenn Matthews of Ginter’s Green Forever voiced her concerns over potential developments that could threaten these vital areas. Community members are increasingly worried about urban sprawl, which they believe detracts from the city’s natural beauty and increases infrastructure burdens.

Councillors addressed the diverse concerns raised, with Coun. Brian Skakun affirming that community feedback is crucial in shaping the OCP. He acknowledged that while the city must adhere to provincial housing mandates, residents’ voices must be heard in development discussions.

The motion to close the public hearing passed unanimously, allowing council members to deliberate further. Several councillors, including Coun. Tim Bennett and Coun. Garth Frizzell, expressed appreciation for the public’s engagement, reaffirming the OCP’s role as a “living document” that can be adjusted over time.

The third reading of the OCP bylaw was ultimately passed with only Coun. Trudy Klassen voting against it. A motion for a report on food security initiatives was introduced, signaling ongoing efforts to refine the plan based on community needs.

As Prince George moves closer to finalizing its OCP, the city will continue to face the challenge of balancing development with community values and environmental sustainability. The next steps include the anticipated fourth reading of the bylaw, which must occur before the end of the year.

Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to stay engaged, as their input will shape the future of Prince George, ensuring the city remains a vibrant and sustainable place to live.