Workshop Questions for Wednesday 25th

General Questions - Every group will answer these two questions
1. What makes Summerland a great place to live – and what must we enhance and preserve?
2. At what stage does growth make Summerland a less desirable place to live?


Smart Growth Questions - Each group will answer some of these questions
The ten Smart Growth Principles suggested by SmartGrowthBC ® are as shown below, with Summerland specific questions following in italics

SG Principle 1.
Mix land uses --- neighbourhoods have a mixture of homes, retail business, recreational opportunities etc.
1.. What practical actions could we take to encourage the long term re-development of our downtown core to include mixed retail/residential buildings?
2. What forms of mixed use should be encouraged for lower town?

SG Principle 2.
Build well-designed compact neighbourhoods...work, shop, play in close proximity.
1. What does Summerland lack to comply with this principle?
2. How much densification is possible without losing our small town character? Where should densification occur?

SG Principle 3.
Provide a variety of transportation choices.
1. Should neighbourhoods and the downtown be linked with cycle-paths and walkways? How could this be done? Who would pay?
2. Which roads, or areas of town, should have sidewalks and cycleways?
3. Is public transport needed? How could it be viable?

SG Principle 4
Create diverse housing opportunities.
1. What type of housing is currently lacking?
3. What height restrictions are appropriate for Summerland?

SG Principle 5
Encourage growth in existing communities …developments should not use up new land.
1. Where should new housing be built first?
2. How can we better utilise existing industrial areas?

SG Principle 6
Preserve open spaces, natural beauty, and environmentally sensitive areas.
1. As Summerland grows more parkland will be needed. What areas should become parkland?
2. What areas deserve special environmental protection?

SG Principle 7
Protect and enhance agricultural lands.
1. What practical steps should we take to protect our remaining farmlands?
2. What will this mean for further growth of Summerland?

SG Principle 8
Utilise smarter and cheaper infrastructure and green buildings.
1. How could we make our infrastructure smarter and cheaper?
2. How should growth be balanced against air and water quality, and the consequent health issues?
3. Should an extra development charge be levied on new buildings that do not meet the highest efficiency standards?

SG Principle 9
Foster a unique neighbourhood identity.
1. Which areas have a unique identity, and what makes them unique?
2. How can Summerland maintain its unique identity yet provide the economic vitality needed for its residents?

SG Principle 10.
Nurture engaged citizens.
1. What are the most effective methods of engaging citizens? Prioritise them.