The Regional District of North Okanagan has been developing and changing quickly, with a population that is increasing and aging, an economy that is shifting, and a growth pattern that will continue to impact our communities, natural landscape, and quality of life. Where will people live? Where will they work? What impact will the pattern of development have on the quality of life and the vitality of today’s communities? What will happen to our important natural areas and the health of our ecosystems? Will we be able to attract and keep companies that provide good jobs for regional residents? What pattern of growth and development will make our region successful, livable and sustainable? These are the challenges we will consider in the Regional Growth Strategy.
A Regional Growth Strategy (RGS) is a 20+ year vision that: “…promote(s) human settlement that is socially, economically, and environmentally healthy and that makes efficient use of public facilities and services, land and other resources.” (Part 25 of the Local Government Act)
The RGS establishes economic, social and environmental objectives that promote healthy communities and expresses how our communities have agreed to work together to enhance regional quality of life, economic prosperity and social well-being. A RGS provides direction in the development of policy for official community while maintaining local autonomy.
Check our RGS Process checklist (145Kb PDF) to see where we are in developing the strategy.
Next Section: Visioning and Guiding Principles
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