REPORT TO

MAYOR AND COUNCIL

PRESENTED: FEBRUARY 9, 2009 - SPECIAL MEETING REPORT: 09-11

FROM: COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIVISION FILE: 6540 - 20
SUBJECT: METRO VANCOUVER REGIONAL GROWTH STRATEGY

RECOMMENDATION(S):
That Council receive this report entitled “Metro Vancouver Regional Growth Strategy”, for
information.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
Metro Vancouver is in the process of developing an updated Regional Growth Strategy under
Part 25 of the Local Government Act.

In February, 2008 Council received a report on “Options for Metro Vancouver’s Growth
Management Strategy”, and made a number of resolutions that were forwarded to Metro
Vancouver. Over the last few months staff have provided Metro Vancouver with comments on
maps and policies proposed in a preliminary draft of the growth strategy. A draft of the Regional
Growth Strategy is expected to be released for public review in February or March. Staff will
review the draft and provide Council with a future report outlining concerns and
recommendations; and seek Council direction on mapping and policy issues.

The draft strategy is more regulatory than the existing Livable Region Strategic Plan. The maps
are not general or conceptual as in the current strategy as they use a parcel-based mapping
system. Changes will require amendments by Metro Vancouver Board through either a bylaw
or a resolution. This will mean additional time for affected applications to be approved and
regional involvement in what are now municipal responsibilities.

Staff will continue to work with Metro Vancouver and other local government staff within the
region to ensure Township’s concerns are heard and addressed.

PURPOSE:
This report updates Council on Metro Vancouver’s Regional Growth Strategy.

Respectfully submitted,

Paul Crawford
MANAGER, LONG RANGE PLANNING
for
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIVISION