Changes to New Official Plan Project Schedule

We are writing to provide an update on the new Official Plan project following a decision by City Council on May 19^th to change the project schedule. As part of the changed schedule, the next milestone in this project will be an information session in Q1 2027. Staff will provide an update again when further information is available.

Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to participate in the new Official Plan project to date, including reviewing materials, attending meetings or events, and providing feedback on the draft plan. Your input is appreciated and will continue to help inform this important work.

For reference, the motion passed by Council is included below:

“Whereas City Council initiated work on its the new Official Plan framework and policies in 2023 with a work plan aiming to have a new Official Plan approved before the end of June 2026; and

Whereas although a number of background studies supporting the Official Plan have been released, there are still upcoming important supporting plans such as the Natural Heritage Study, Integrated Mobility Plan, etc. that are in in progress; and

Whereas some members of the public have expressed a desire for more time to review supporting studies and the draft plan prior to City Council making a decision on the final Official Plan;

Therefore Be It Resolved That Council direct city staff to cancel the June 30th Special Meeting of Council and the June 18th Special Meeting of Planning Committee; and

That staff be directed to hold an information session in Q1 2027 in order to provide information to both the public and the council elected for the 2026-2030 term regarding the Official Plan; and

That Council direct staff to release additional supporting studies and plans, when available, in accordance with the Council endorsed medium growth scenario for public review and feedback and submit an updated 3rd draft of the New Official Plan, together with an accompanying recommendation report, no later than June 30, 2027, following the completion of outstanding supporting studies, public engagement, and technical review.”

Sincerely,

The New Official Plan Project Team