Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

An Official Plan outlines policies on how land in a community should be used. It is prepared with input from the community and helps to ensure that future planning and development will meet the community's individual needs.

An Official Plan guides the long-term growth and development of a community. It addresses key planning issues, including:

• Land Use & Development: Identifying locations for new housing, businesses, offices, and retail spaces.
• Infrastructure & Services: Planning for essential services such as roads, water mains, sewers, parks, and schools.
• Growth Management: Establishing the timing and sequence of community expansion.
• Community Improvements: Supporting initiatives that enhance public spaces, heritage conservation, and overall livability.

The Official Plan ensures that future development aligns with the needs of the community while balancing economic, environmental, and social considerations.

In August 2019, Town Council adopted a revised Official Plan. The Town must now update it accordingly to align with recent provincial policy changes, the Niagara Official Plan, and local priorities.

An Official Plan provides a long-term vision for how a community will grow and develop. It ensures that land use, infrastructure, and services are planned to support economic growth, environmental sustainability, and a high quality of life for residents.

The Official Plan guides land use policies, which may influence zoning, permitted developments, and future infrastructure projects. Property owners should refer to the plan when considering renovations, new developments, or land purchases to ensure compliance with municipal planning policies.

• February 2018: The Town's consultant, PLANSCAPE, reviewed the work completed up to that date and initiated work on a new draft Official Plan.  
• February to June 2018: A revised draft of the Plan was consulted with stakeholders such as Town Committees, appropriate groups and agencies.
• December 2018: The final draft of the Plan was posted on the Town's website and was available for review at Town Hall.
• February 13, 2019: The Town held Open Houses at the Community Centre. 
• February 25, 2019: The Town held a Public Meeting at the Community Centre.
• August 1, 2019: A Special Meeting of Council was held, during which a Draft Official Plan Revision was presented.
• August 15, 2019: Another Special Meeting of Council was held, during which a Draft Official Plan Revision was presented.
• October 22, 2019: Council adopted the new revised Official Plan.