Perth County is ready to start engaging the public more regarding the county's official plan.
Andrea Hächler, Manager of Planning for Perth County, says the official plan is a document that establishes the community's long-term vision and goals, over a 25-year period. She says this document is particularly important for another specific reason.
"In the past some of the member municipalities have had their own official plans, but with this new official plan, we'll be amalgamating all of them into one single document. So it should be easier for the public, developers and staff to use," Hächler explained.
The open houses will start in February.
"We're going to provide as much information about the new official plan as possible. We'll have different boards, we're going to have a presentation at each of the open houses, we'll also have a virtual component at one of them, so those that can't make it can tune in. Basically, what we're looking for is feedback on different policies that are relevant to different representatives within the community," added Hächler.
Hächler notes there will be plenty of opportunities to provide feedback on a variety of topics.
"For example, if you're a farmer, you might be most interested in the natural environment policies, as well as the agricultural policies. If you're a commercial business owner, you might be more interested in the commercial policies. If you're a residential developer, they'll be very interested in the different housing policies," Hächler shared.
says prior to the open houses, people can find out a bit about the official plan and ask questions in an easy way by visiting PerthCounty.ca/NewOP.
"There's a section for frequently asked questions. So every time we receive a question from anyone, we post the question and provide a response, so that's on there. But then if you're perusing the site and the draft official plan policies and you have any questions, there's an email contact there that you can submit emails to and you can also give us a call," said Hächler.
Each open house will run from 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. with presentations beginning at 5:30 p.m. The February 7 open house in Mitchell is also a virtual open house. To register for the virtual open house e-mail newofficialplan@perthcounty.ca and you will receive a link for the meeting.
Meeting schedule:
The opportunity for public engagement on the draft Official Plan through open houses which is happening:
Wednesday, February 7, 2024, West Perth Council Chambers, 160 Wellington Street, Mitchell
Thursday, February 8, 2024, Steve Kerr Memorial Complex Community Room, 965 Binning Street West, Listowel
Monday, February 12, 2024, Downie Optimist Hall, 3185 County Road 122, St. Pauls
Thursday, February 15, 2024, Perth East Recreation Complex, 40 Temperance St., Milverton
