During this phase, we'll create a communications and engagement strategy that ensures all voices are heard throughout the OCP process. An OCP Committee, made up of community members, will be established during this phase, and a meeting will be held with the Committee and Council to kick-off the project. 

In this phase, we'll take a deep dive into reviewing relevant bylaws, policies, studies and plans that relate to the topics in the OCP. This will ensure that we build on work that has already been completed and help us re-imagine how the OCP could be successfully structured and implemented moving forward. 

Community members will be encouraged to join us for a fall Family Fun Night and OCP immersion week filled with exciting events and opportunities to provide input. This feedback will help shape the draft vision, guiding principles and policy direction of the OCP. 

Informed by the feedback collected from the community in Phase 3, the first draft of the OCP will be developed. Both District staff and residents will have the opportunity to provide input, ensuring that the Plan aligns with the community’s vision.  

The OCP will be revised based on feedback from the first draft, and a second draft OCP will then be presented to Council and the Committee to share what updates have been made. Communications material highlighting the changes between the first and second draft will be released to the public.  

The final draft of the OCP will be presented to Council and upon completion of the formal approval process, the OCP will be adopted.  

The updated Elkford OCP will serve as a guiding document for the District's future development and growth. It will be used by local authorities, planners, developers and stakeholders to make informed decisions about land use, infrastructure, economic development, environmental conservation and community well-being. 

An OCP holds significant importance as it serves as a roadmap for the future development and expansion of our community. It is important if you want to have your say in the future of Elkford. Here are some more reasons why you should consider participating in the process:  

• Influence future development: By participating, residents can have a say in shaping the way their community grows, including decisions about housing, transportation, parks, infrastructure and more. 

• Quality of life: Participating allows residents to advocate for improvements that matter to them, such as preserving green spaces, creating walkable neighbourhoods, or promoting affordable housing options. 

• Long term impact: The outcomes of the OCP update can shape the community for a long time, and being involved ensures that the community's best interests are considered for years to come.  

• Community identity: The OCP helps to preserve the community's identity. Residents can contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage, landmarks and unique features that make their community special. 

The project kickoff occurred in August 2023 and will take approximately 18 months to complete.  We expect the final draft of the OCP to be completed in the fall of 2024 and Council will consider the OCP for adoption in December 2024. 

Residents will be engaged throughout the project through multiple community engagement opportunities. These opportunities include community meetings, workshops, fun family events and surveys. This will allow residents to share their input and concerns, ensuring their ideas influence the OCP update. Please continue to check the project website for future dates and details.  

Your feedback is incredibly valuable throughout the entire OCP update process. Your feedback will allow the District to identify the community priorities, concerns, opportunities and preferences. We will use this input to refine the plan's objectives and strategies, ensuring the updated OCP reflects Elkford residents' vision and needs. 

Key information that will inform the OCP update include:  

• Community context and trends: Current population, economic and demographic trends and the needs and opportunities related to these trends. 

• Existing plans, strategies and guidelines: Key targets and outcomes from recent planning work the District has already completed (e.g. Downtown Plan, Elkford Flood Projection Study).  

• Professional expertise: Technical urban planning best practices and economic strategies that are feasible in the District of Elkford.  

• Public input: Ideas, opportunities and priorities that community members raise during the public engagement events for the project.