We are at the half-way mark in 2023 and there is a great deal of work to report on.
The 2023 Action Plan has been updated, highlighting the Board’s immediate and upcoming priorities and areas for advocacy, indicating that we are on track with our work for 2023.
In March I reported that the SLRD would be implementing new tools to help improve our services. I am pleased to share that since that time, we launched a new online building permitting system, our online engagement platform - Get Involved SLRD and the SLRD Update – our email newsletter.
These measures help us improve our service, but also give us more ways to communicate and engage with the community.
The team has also undertaken important emergency readiness work, launching the FireSmart program for all property owners in the SLRD’s electoral areas and performing tabletop exercises and scenario planning with partners throughout the region. We marked Emergency Preparedness Week in May by collaborating with municipalities in the region to initiate tests of our emergency alert notification systems, conducting emergency operations centre activation tests and sharing key emergency preparedness messaging through our social media channels. The Board has approved an amended Building Bylaw which aligns with changes to the BC Building Code, and has adopted an amended Area C Zoning Bylaw that aligns with regulations set out in the Agricultural Land Commission.
Also in this quarter, the SLRD Finance department, in collaboration with Urban Systems, has developed the SLRD’s first Corporate Asset Management Plan (CAMP); a tool for raising awareness among staff and the SLRD Board about the scope of assets for which the SLRD is responsible.
A new Official Community Plan (OCP) is underway for Electoral Area A. The project has involved the creation of a community steering committee, online surveys and community open houses. The OCP is now in draft form and is being reviewed and edited prior to the next community input phase.
Regional Districts are the governing body for unincorporated rural communities (Electoral Areas) as well as serving as the regional governing body, representing all residents on issues of regional concern. When it comes to this level of government, two key words are cooperation and collaboration. We work in partnership to advance the work that serves our diverse and dynamic communities. When we come together at the SLRD Board table, whether in agreement or not, it’s always in the spirit of cooperation and collaboration as we work together for the overall benefit of the region as a whole.
Please visit the SLRD website to find out more about the organization and the work that we do and be sure to sign up for the newsletter and Get Involved SLRD.
Jen Ford
Chair, Squamish-Lillooet Regional District