The District of Squamish has launched the new Land Development Application process, dramatically simplifying and shortening the process through which land developers apply for new projects. The new simplified process, a result of Core Service Review recommendations created for the Development Services department in 2011, is highly anticipated by developers – some of whom had a direct hand in helping shape this new application process.
A presentation to the Business Processing Standing Committee in October revealed a flawed past process characterized by multiple guides, multiple application forms, and information that contradicted itself, resulting in high levels of frustration experienced by developers. The new application kit includes four simple documents, including: an application guide, pre-application meeting request form, application form, and document checklist.
“This monumental step forward sends a clear message to the development community that Squamish is open for business and that we want to make it easy to do work here,” says District of Squamish Mayor Rob Kirkham. “We have heard the development community’s concerns and take them very seriously. We very much look forward to seeing this new process in action and will be monitoring the results closely.”
The development community was engaged throughout the review and has helped shape the new process. Representatives provided guidance to the Business Processing Standing Committee chaired by Councillor Ron Sanders, and also provided feedback through focus groups hosted by the District. The process was tested on two new development projects before this full launch to the community.
The improved Land Development Application process is just one part of the ‘Continuity Project’, initiated in July 2012, focused on three main Development Service business areas: Land Development, Building Permits, and Business Licences. As Squamish continues to experience one of the fastest population growth rates in BC (close to 15 per cent growth between 2006 and 2011, StatsCan), the District recognizes the need to improve systems, processes and services across the board to support such growth through delivery of services and support of economic development.
Processes and supporting documentation have undergone rigorous reviews in all areas, resulting in both short- and long-term business improvements. These improvements include: shortened processing times; processing automation; streamlined guides and forms; and easy access to information on the District’s new website, which launched in November.
Completed Deliverables To Date:
The new Land Development application forms and guide are available for download at http://squamish.ca/business-and-development/home-land-and-property-development/application-guides-and-forms/.
January 15, 2013
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