OCP 1st draft complete

Photo: Mike Biden

After more than two years of work and public consultation, the City of Penticton has released the first draft of its new Official Community Plan.

The document aims to guide the long-term vision and development of the city through an expected growth rate of just 0.65 per cent a year through to 2046.

“As a result, the city is estimated to add about 250 people per year to have a population of around 41,900 by 2046,” the draft states.

The city, already one if the province’s oldest, is also aging as it grows. The median age in Penticton is currently 52 and 43 in B.C.

“Demographic analysis suggests that the 65 and older age groups are estimated to increase as a proportion of the population, growing from 29 per cent in 2016 to 38 per cent by 2046.”

To accommodate that growth, the community will have to add about 150 new housing units a year. Ideally, 110 of those would be owner occupied and 40 rented.

“We are pleased to have reached this point in the process and are grateful to everyone who has been involved and provided input over the last two years,” says manager, special projects, Ben Johnson. “We are now at stage where we can share this complete draft with the community and get their input on the vision and direction of the OCP.”

Residents are encouraged to view the 153-page document and offer feedback at upcoming community engagement events.