Purpose
The Official Community Plan (OCP) is one of Central Saanich’s most important documents. It presents the long-term vision for the community, setting out objectives and policies that guide decisions on planning, land use, and the provision of municipal services. In doing so, it helps us determine how and where we live, work, play and move.
The OCP guides the community until it needs review, which is generally every five to ten years. The plan can be viewed as a living document that may be updated when needed.
Legislative Authority
The Local Government Act (LGA) gives the District legislative authority to adopt an OCP. This OCP has been prepared in compliance with Part 14, Divisions 3 and 4 of the Act which outline the required content of an Official Community Plan and describe the procedures a municipality must follow in order to adopt a Plan. The OCP must also satisfy requirements of provincial legislation and be consistent with the Capital Regional District’s Regional Growth Strategy.
Implementation
Although the Local Government Act specifies that all bylaws enacted and works undertaken by Council must be consistent with the OCP, the OCP itself does not commit or authorize the District to proceed with any projects specified in the plan (LGA s.478). To achieve any particular initiative identified, the project, plan, or works would also need to be included in the District’s strategic work plan with appropriate budget and resource allocation.