The City of Williams Lake is excited to announce that it has formally adopted the 2025-2050 Official Community Plan (OCP), marking a significant milestone in shaping the community’s long-term growth, development and livability.
The OCP’s completion follows months of technical work, policy development and extensive public engagement. Together, the OCP and Zoning Bylaws establish a comprehensive planning framework that will guide land use, housing, transportation, environmental stewardship, economic development and community well-being over the next 25 years.
“The Official Community Plan is a community-driven document that reflects the values, priorities and vision of Williams Lake residents,” said Williams Lake Mayor Surinderpal Rathor. “(Williams Lake) Council is proud to adopt a plan that balances growth with sustainability, supports housing diversity and provides clarity for residents, developers and staff as our community continues to evolve.”
The updated OCP replaces the previous plan and reflects current provincial legislation, best practices in community planning and local priorities identified through engagement with residents, stakeholders, First Nations and partner organizations. Key themes include housing choice and affordability, complete and connected neighbourhoods, active transportation, climate resilience, reconciliation and economic opportunity.
Once the new Zoning Bylaw is adopted following Ministry of Transportation and Transit approval, it will align the City’s zoning regulations with the vision and policies set out in the OCP. The bylaw modernizes zoning regulations, improves clarity and consistency and supports a broader range of housing and land uses, while maintaining neighbourhood character.
“This is an important step toward implementing the community’s long-term vision,” said City of Williams Lake Manager of Economic Development Beth Veenkamp. “With the updated OCP, the City has a strong foundation to guide decision-making and respond to future opportunities and challenges.”
The City thanks community members who participated throughout the planning process by attending open houses, completing surveys, providing written submissions and speaking at the public hearing.
The 2025–2050 Official Community Plan is now in effect and are available to view on the City of Williams Lake website at https://www.williamslake.ca/310/Official-Community-Plan-2025-2050. The updated Zoning Bylaw has received three readings and will be considered for adoption early in the new year, following receipt of the required Ministry of Transportation and Transit approval.
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