The Fraser Valley Regional District (FVRD) invites the public to share their ideas, concerns, and vision for the future during three upcoming open houses.
The review process will update the current Regional Growth Strategy to reflect new legislation, current trends, opportunities and challenges brought about by rapid population growth. The FVRD is one of the fastest growing regional districts in British Columbia. By 2041, its population is expected to increase by as much as 60 per cent. Recent provincial mandates to reduce greenhouse gas emissions could also potentially influence policies on air quality, transportation, and other significant issues in the Fraser Valley.
A total of six open houses will be held in the region over the next few months. The FVRD is looking for public input on a broad range of topics including the economy, housing, healthy living, transportation, and the environment.
“The Regional Growth Strategy helps to ensure that the region as a whole is working toward a common future," said board chair Sharon Gaetz. "Our region is facing unprecedented growth; an updated plan provides a common foundation for managing this growth and preserving our environment, resources and quality of life.”
An open house will be held on July 17 at Canyon Lanes Bowling Alley in Boston Bar from 6-8 p.m., at Hope & District Recreation Centre on July 25 from 6:30-8 p.m., and at the District of Kent municipal hall in Agassiz on July 26 from 6-8 p.m.
Additional open houses will take place in Chilliwack, Mission, and Abbotsford in early fall.
If you're unable attend one of these meetings, you can fill out an online survey at www.fvrd.bc.ca under "Hot Topics," email your feedback to RGSInput@fvrd.bc.ca, or write to the FVRD strategic planning and initiatives department.
All input gathered during the consultation will be used to draft an updated Regional Growth Strategy. The final document will then be presented for approval to all affected local governments, and once approved, will be integrated into each community’s plans and used to guide growth in the region over the next 20-30 years.