City of Powell River Council has documented what it calls four pillars, identified in a draft of council’s strategic priorities.
At the January 16 committee of the whole meeting, in the committee agenda was a document describing council’s strategic priorities from 2024 to 2026. The committee, at the meeting, decided to hold another workshop-like meeting prior to bringing the document to city council for decision making to see if it can get closer to consensus.
In the intergovernmental relations pillar, the draft specifies taking real steps toward reconciliation by renewing protocols for implementing the Community Accord and working on issues brought forward by Tla’amin Nation. Another measure is taking steps toward a name change.
Advocacy to the provincial government for supports for mental health, community justice and emergency response, in order to address the downloading of responsibilities to local government, was another component. The final statement in the pillar was to adopt a council code of conduct.
Under the healthy community pillar, it specifies providing facilities and staff for recreation and culture activities that define the community and make it where people want to live, while working with nonprofit partners through grants and partnerships to achieve social goals.
Prioritizing the lease of city-owned lands to support non-market/multi-family housing, child care, hospice, primary care, community uses, light industrial, mixed use and economic diversification activities was specified.
Completion of the official community plan update and integrating related bylaws and policies was part of the draft. Finally, there is the provision of creating a housing authority, working with partners to create sustainable, long-lasting affordable housing, protected from speculation.
Regarding environmental resiliency, the draft specifies continuing progress on safe and accessible active transportation corridors, and cooperating with regional partners to improve regional transportation.
There is a recommendation that the city continues working toward climate change mitigation and adaptation by strengthening the commitment to decrease city greenhouse gas emissions and by updating bylaws and pursuing opportunities with climate resilience in mind. Advancing to zero waste for solid waste and organics was also part of the document.
The final pillar, economic vibrancy, specified creating and implementing a small business attraction and retention plan that improves conditions controlled by the city and increases ongoing two-way communications. Producing and implementing an asset management plan that is economically sustainable was specified in the draft.
Exploring opportunities for increased or new revenue generation across existing and possible activities and assets was also outlined. Finally, building on existing customer service to focus on a service-minded culture that helps businesses and residents “get to yes” was documented.
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