What, you ask, is a second reading?
The draft Official Community Plan (OCP) is on the agenda for second reading at Tuesday’s Regular Council Meeting beginning at 6 p.m. Here’s what you need to know:
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What is second reading?
Second reading provides Council with an opportunity to hear from District staff how public and Council input has shaped the draft OCP bylaw between first and second readings. This is an opportunity for Council to discuss whether or not to give this version of the OCP bylaw second reading, and move it to Public Hearing. Once the draft OCP bylaw receives second reading, no further changes may be made in advance of the Public Hearing.
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Will second reading allow for public input at the meeting?
Generally no. Second reading will give District staff the opportunity to present to Council on the changes made to the draft OCP, and for Council to discuss. These changes are based on Council and public feedback received on the draft plan since December 1, 2017.
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When will the public have an opportunity to formally address Council?
Once second reading is given by Council, that version of the OCP bylaw will then move to Public Hearing. Public Hearings will be scheduled at Brennan Park Recreation Centre for members of the public to provide formal submissions to Council in person or in writing.
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What is a Public Hearing?
A Public Hearing is a legislated step in the process to adopt a bylaw in British Columbia. A Public Hearing enables citizens to provide formal submissions in writing or in person. In anticipation of many people wishing to speak, the OCP Public Hearing will be held at Brennan Park Recreation Centre over two evenings. Citizens are encouraged to come out to speak at the Public Hearing to stand up for what you support or don’t support in the plan, or to provide a formal submission in writing.
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When did the OCP receive first reading?
The OCP received first reading December 12, 2017. Since that time, the District has been actively seeking feedback which has helped to shape the latest version of the bylaw that Council will review Tuesday night. First reading was the culmination of a two-year process of seeking feedback and active engagement, that began in January 2016 and that informed the draft OCP that was presented for first reading.
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When was the draft OCP first available for public comments?
The draft OCP was introduced to the public for feedback on December 1, 2017.
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How can I provide my comments on the draft OCP prior to the Public Hearing?
Visit us online at Squamish.ca/OCP to review the draft bylaw and submit comments via an online form.
