The District of Sechelt is embarking on a much-needed update to its Official Community Plan (OCP), a guiding document that will shape land use and development for years to come. This OCP renewal is an exciting opportunity for residents to share their vision and ensure that Sechelt grows sustainably, resiliently, and in accordance with community values.
As part of this process, the District is hosting a “Future of Sechelt” workshop on February 13 to gather public input. Your participation can help ensure that environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and natural asset protection are central considerations.
Why the Official Community Plan (OCP) Matters
An OCP is a visionary document that guides decisions about where and how development occurs. It influences everything from housing and transportation to infrastructure and environmental protection. To be truly effective, an OCP must reflect the community’s values and priorities, which is why your voice matters.
Sechelt’s current OCP was last updated in 2011. Since then, we’ve experienced growing environmental challenges, including extreme temperatures, drought, and atmospheric rivers. This update provides an opportunity to ensure that future development aligns with the realities of climate change and the need to protect our forests, wetlands, and wildlife habitats.
What’s Included in the Plan?
The District of Sechelt will complete a Community Land Development Analysis (CLDA) to inform the new OCP. The CLDA is structured around four key focus areas:
✅ Housing
✅ Transportation
✅ Infrastructure
✅ Daily Needs
While these are important topics, the environment, biodiversity, and climate resilience are not explicitly listed. We understand that these four focus areas are required components of the CLDA due to funding conditions, but that does not mean environmental concerns should be left out of the conversation. The environment underpins all aspects of sustainable land use planning, and we encourage the community to speak up about its importance at the workshop.
Building on Past Work
Last fall, the SCCA hosted a Green Bylaws Workshop attended by planners, elected officials, and community members. This workshop focused on strategies for integrating ecosystem connectivity, climate adaptation, and conservation-focused planning into local land-use policies. These ideas can provide valuable guidance as the OCP evolves.
By incorporating these conversations into the public engagement process, we can help shape a plan that balances growth with long-term environmental sustainability.
Your Chance to Get Involved: Attend the Workshop on February 13
The District of Sechelt is hosting two workshop sessions at the Seaside Centre (5790 Teredo St., Sechelt):
📅 Workshop Option 1: 1:00 – 3:00 PM
📅 Workshop Option 2: 5:00 – 7:00 PM
Why Your Input is Essential
Sechelt is at a crossroads. The decisions made today will shape the community for decades to come. Adding your voice can help ensure that the OCP reflects a balance between growth and conservation, ensuring a resilient and thriving future.
Together, we can:
✅ Advocate for strong environmental protections in future development decisions.
✅ Ensure natural areas, watersheds, and green spaces remain part of Sechelt’s landscape.
✅ Support a vision for Sechelt that embraces climate adaptation and sustainability.
Take Action: Join the Conversation!
✅ Attend the Future of Sechelt workshop on February 13.
✅ Encourage friends and neighbours to participate.
✅ Help shape a future that prioritizes both community and conservation.
Stay Informed and Engaged
Sign up for SCCA’s eNews to stay updated on advocacy efforts, conservation initiatives, and future participation opportunities. Together, we can ensure Sechelt’s future remains vibrant, sustainable, and resilient.
We hope to see you at the workshop—your voice can make a difference!
Cover Image: The Sechelt Pier