A new website — www.rdno.ca/services/development/rgs/index.php — will be the source of information about the regional growth strategy’s process, progress and public participation.
“Community input opportunities and public surveys will be featured on the website, as well as summaries of participation events and activities,” said Anthony Kittel, regional growth strategy co-ordinator.
“Community input is vital to the process and we want to hear from you.”
Among the issues input is being sought on are economic development, water stewardship, affordable housing and social issues, environmental policy and natural lands, governance and service delivery, transportation and agriculture and food systems.
“What is important to you? What is working? What is not working?” said Kittel.
“Do you have any suggestions that will address these growth issues? You can add your voice to the process through community input on the regional growth strategy web page.
“Get involved in shaping our future.”
If you want to get more involved, there are working groups being established to tackle certain growth issues.
The working groups will be a focal point for gathering expertise in local growth issue priorities, goals, objectives, and strategies.
Participation in the working groups is voluntary and will require a commitment for a series of three-hour meetings to discuss goals, objectives and strategies for the growth issues.
If you want to apply for one of the working groups, go to www.rdno.ca.
VISION AND GUIDING PRINCIPALS
VISION
An integral component of the Terms of Reference for the Regional Growth Strategy is a Vision Statement that can provide guidance to the public, stakeholders, staff and elected officials throughout the process. On June 19, 2007, the Regional Growth Management Committee adopted the following as the Vision Statement for the Regional Growth Strategy:
“The Regional District of North Okanagan is a unique region that will continue to be recognized for its diverse natural habitats, diverse economies, outstanding recreational opportunities and the high quality of urban and rural lifestyles provided in established communities. As such, the Regional Board will strive to conserve and enhance the very reasons that make the North Okanagan so attractive by ensuring:
- Lifestyle opportunities sustained by a safe, clean, healthy inclusive place to live, work and play;
- Sustainable growth is achieved through a responsive Regional Growth Strategy;
- Effective relationships and partnerships with all levels of government;
- Open, cohesive and effective regional governance;
- The Regional District of North Okanagan will remain a trusted organization to serve regional, sub-regional and local interests.”
This vision will be refined during the Regional Growth Strategy process to be more reflective of community values and priorities.
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