Cherry ?????? Creek- Savona ?????? Official Community Plan ??????
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“I like this place and could willingly waste my time in it.” William Shakespeare
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
PLAN FOUNDATION
PART 1 OUR CORE VALUES
PART 2 PLAN CONTEXT
PART 3 THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
PLAN OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES
PART 4 PLANNING ISSUES: A NEIGHBOURHOOD REVIEW
PART 5 AGRICULTURE AND RESOURCE USE
PART 6 RESIDENTIAL
PART 7 COMMERCIAL
PART 8 INDUSTRIAL
PART 9 QUALITY OF LIFE
PART 10 UTILITIES AND INFRASTRUCTURE
PART 11 ROADS AND TRANSPORTATION NETWORKS
PLAN IMPLEMENTATION
PART 12 DEVELOPMENT PERMIT AREAS
PART 13 TEMPORARY COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL USE PERMITS
REFERENCES
APPENDIX 1 – STATISTICAL DATA
LIST OF TABLES Table A – Population Trends Table B – Population Overview Table C - Population Profile – Electoral Area “J” Table D - Population and Occupied Private Dwellings for Plan Area
LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1 - Cherry Creek-Savona Official Community Plan Boundary Figure 2 - Cherry Creek Growth Management Area Figure 3 - Tobiano Growth Management Area Figure 4 - Savona Growth Management Area
Figure 5 - Agricultural Land Reserve Boundaries Figure 6 - Mineral Tenures Figure 7 - Cherry Creek Aquifers
Figure 8 – Riparian Assesement Area
LIST OF MAPS MAP 1A - FUTURE LAND USE STRATEGY – EAST KAMLOOPS LAKE MAP 1B - FUTURE LAND USE STRATEGY – WEST KAMLOOPS LAKE MAP 1C - FUTURE LAND USE STRATEGY – EAST KAMLOOPS LAKE MAP 5 MAP 2A – RIPARIAN, ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE AND SPECIES AT RISK AREAS – EAST KAMLOOPS LAKE MAP 2B - RIPARIAN, ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE AND SPECIES AT RISK AREAS – WEST KAMLOOPS LAKE MAP 3A – SLOPE HAZARD AND FLOODPLAIN – EAST KAMLOOPS LAKE MAP 3B - SLOPE HAZARD AND FLOODPLAIN – WEST KAMLOOPS LAKE MAP 4A – PARKS, PROTECTED AREAS AND PRIVATE PROPERTIES – EAST KAMLOOPS LAKE MAP 4B - PARKS, PROTECTED AREAS AND PRIVATE PROPERTIES – WEST KAMLOOPS LAKE MAP 5A – ROADS – EAST KAMLOOPS LAKE MAP 5B – ROADS – WEST KAMLOOPS LAKE MAP 6 – WILDFIRE HAZARDS
APPENDIX 2 – SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS
• COMMUNITY CONSULTATION AND SURVEY
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PART 1 : OUR CORE VALUES
Introduction
Our Official Community Plan
The Cherry Creek-Savona Official Community Plan not only has a new look and organization, it charts a new way “Plan for what is difficult while it forward for the Plan area and its residents. For some is easy; do what is great while it areas the Plan identifies growth areas that capitalize on is still small.” existing amenities while for other areas the Plan promotes conservation and rural preservation. Sun Tzu Wu, Chinese General Regardless of one’s address, the new OCP places a and Author greater emphasis on the principles of sustainability and Smart Growth. Growing smarter in each community was a common theme for area residents.
Changing demographics, an evolving comprehensive resort development, resource extraction activities and an underutilized lake amenity running through the centre has cast a new light on the challenges we face in maintaining the landbase more efficiently and protecting working lands. Renewed objectives and policies can help citizens achieve a more balanced future where residents can continue to work and play, natural resources are given more consideration and the Kamloops Lake’s natural setting is protected.
Why We Plan – A Regulatory Context
Planning is the process of determining the future vision of a community or defined area and creating a policy framework to implement this vision in light of the environmental, social, economic and physical resources in the area.
An Official Community Plan (OCP) is a comprehensive statement of goals, objectives and policies to guide all decisions on planning and land use management within the area covered by the Plan. Developed by the community for the community, the OCP is a legal document that serves to fulfill the community’s desires and aspirations through goal identification, objectives and policies.
The OCP provides a coordinated action strategy so that property owners, developers and others can evaluate their respective land development Plans, undertake projects and make more informed decisions, especially as regards the environment. The OCP also provides assurances to area residents that there will be recognizable continuity of land use policy that provides certainty for the future of the community. This OCP is organized by the following headings: goals, objectives and policies.
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• Goals are a general reflection of the community’s desired outcome • Objectives are the community’s efforts or actions intended to achieve the goals • Policies identify how the goals and objectives are accomplished
Community plans are typically reviewed every 5 to 10 years to assess whether the goals and objectives and subsequent policy directions remain valid. An OCP is not intended to be a static document. Amendments may be warranted if there are changes in social conditions or community values; however, to effectively implement the Plan, the Board may reject applications that disregard the spirit of the Plan.
The OCP is not a land use, subdivision or development regulation. Land use regulations are set out in the zoning and other bylaws and are used to implement the policies identified in the OCP. Once an OCP is adopted as a bylaw, the OCP becomes “official”, and all future land use decisions made by the Board of Directors must be consistent with the objectives and policies outlined in the Plan.
Creating the OCP
The new OCP is the product of a two year effort involving the Plan area residents, the OCP Advisory Committee and Improvement District, Municipal, Provincial, Regional District, Federal and First Nation consultation.
The matters of who, how, and how often to consult are at the discretion of the TNRD Board of Directors. In accordance with s. 879 of the Local Government Act, local government must provide one or more opportunities as appropriate for consultation with persons, organizations and authorities the Board considers will be affected. On April 5, 2012, the TNRD Board of Directors reviewed and approved a comprehensive, all-inclusive public consultation process.
In light of the OCP not being reviewed in 17 years, the first step in the process of plan development involved research and key issue identification. A comprehensive survey was developed that sought to capture the thoughts and ideas from area residents, with the general questions being asked: What are your opinions about your community and environment and how do you think the Kamloops Lake area should look in 5 to 10 years?
In June 2012, approximately 750 surveys were sent out to property owners in the Plan area. An electronic version was also made available to those wishing to complete the survey online. A total of 80 surveys were completed and returned, primarily from the Savona and Cherry Creek areas. In addition, staff met with the Skeetchestn First Nation Council and government representatives and conducted public community meetings in Savona and Tobiano.
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While the response rate was not overwhelming, what we discovered from the survey responses and community meetings to date was an enormous passion for local neighbourhoods, adoration for the surrounding environment and above-average quality of life.
The survey responses and community meetings yielded the identification of the following key issue areas: Background Research
• Recognize that the Plan area consists of distinct settlement areas with diverse growth needs. Consultation • Preserve the rural atmosphere in neighbourhoods with large parcels. • Protect sensitive ecosystems and grasslands. • Encourage growth in areas with advanced servicing Core Values levels. • Address the growing need for fire protection services in Cherry Creek. Vision • Implement stronger policy for lakeshore protection. • Encourage local agriculture and agri-tourism opportunities, including a local farmers market. Objectives • Manage existing water sources in a more sustainable fashion. • Maintain and enhance community and recreational facilities. Policies • Provide opportunities for residents, particularly young families, to live and work in the Plan area. • Improve public access to Kamloops Lake. Implementation
In addition to survey and community meeting consultation, a series of Advisory Committee meetings were held over the past two years which helped bring additional refinement and clarity to the community survey and public issues. In-depth discussions during these meetings helped to boil down “big picture” ideas into more concise objectives and policies covering a wide range of topics.
When resident comments were reviewed from our consultation efforts, the words noted in the following word cloud were found to be the most common reflection of how residents felt about their current surroundings and the inevitable future of their respective communities. For this analysis, the larger the letters respresent the most popular responses. These key words, coupled with a summary of the community’s Core Values, helped form the backdrop for the Community Vision.
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Core Community Values
The following core values were developed to articulate key themes and values that emerged from the research and consultation process to date. The OCP is guided by these principles:
1. Water Quality and Availability. Ensure that all development and infrastructure around Kamloops Lake minimizes the potential for negative effects on water quality and quantity.
2. Environmental Stewardship. Protect the area’s natural resources and environmentally sensitive areas, including the unique ecosystems, integrity of watersheds, grasslands, river and lake water quality, scenery, fish, and wildlife.
3. Rural Community. Recognize the distinction between the three settlement areas in the Plan. Retain the rural values and character, including safe, peaceful, and clean settlements and a friendly, supportive lifestyle in a natural setting in accordance with the principles of Smart Growth.
4. Primary Settlement. Recognize and enhance the role of Savona and Tobiano as the principal settlement areas, and encourage more economic, affordable housing, social, education and recreation opportunities in these areas.
5. Strong Local Economy. Strengthen the economic and employment base, including year-round tourism as well as commercial, industrial, resource extraction and agriculture uses that respect the rural character with minimal impacts on sensitive environmental resources.
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6. Housing Diversity. Ensure that there continues to be diversity in housing options, including affordable housing, accessible housing, and housing for all age groups.
7. Green Development. Encourage new development to be energy efficient, use land efficiently, conserve water, and manage waste to the highest standards, especially on the lakes and areas adjacent to streams.
8. Transportation Choice. Improve the transportation network, including transit and other transportation alternatives to settled areas, safer roads, and pedestrian and boating routes between settlements on Kamloops Lake.
9. Responsible Provision of Services. Work towards a balanced and sustainable approach for infrastructure implementation for all residents, including water and wastewater treatment systems.
10. Recreation. Increase opportunities for outdoor recreation for all residents, including: public lake access, public parks and recreation facilities.
11. Tourism. Increase tourism opportunities, including: commercial lakeshore development, lake use opportunities between Kamloops and Savona.
12. Emergency and Hazard Planning. Improve Planning related to emergencies, including: wildfire hazard management, evacuation Planning, ambulance service, hazard land identification.
13. Agriculture. Protect good agricultural land, support the agriculture industry, support the ALR, and consider agri-tourism and agri-business opportunities.
14. Climate Action Charter. Establish policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in accordance with the Climate Action Charter.
15. Fringe Area Planning. Promote fringe area policies in a reciprocal fashion with the City of Kamloops.
Vision for the Future
The Community Vision is intended as a positive and inspirational description of what the Plan area will be like in the future. The Vision acts as the overarching guide for the Plan area as a whole.
The vision is achieved both by the actions taken by the Regional District and other government agencies through a combination of policies and programs and the advocacy of area residents through individual or collective efforts.
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The following community vision statement encapsulates the general goals and aspirations for the Plan area residents. The Vision is expressed in the present tense since it represents how it is hoped that the area will be described in the future. This Official Community Plan is a reflection of the community’s thoughts and ideas.
Community Vision Statement
Plan area residents are proud of their diverse communities and natural surroundings. Residents desire vibrant and active communities. Residents recognize that each community in the Plan area is unique and requires distinct approaches to growth management. As the focal point of the Plan area, Kamloops Lake provides a valuable fishery, scenic landscapes, recreational opportunities and a source of water. The Lake acts as a common backdrop against a unique mix of lakeshore, master-Planned and upland rural communities.
Savona and Tobiano are the primary growth areas, providing a range of housing, employment, recreational and social opportunities for a diverse population.
Savona Elementary School is the heartbeat of Savona.
Cherry Creek residents cherish their wide-open spaces and proximity to the City of Kamloops. Local agriculture and low residential density contribute to a passive, rural lifestyle.
Kamloops Lake has a rich history of use by the Tk’emlups and Skeetchestn First Nations, particularly as a fishing, hunting and food gathering area. This history is evidenced through sacred sites and archaeological sites which dot the area.
Kamloops Lake supports a balance of full-time and seasonal residents, as well as tourists and visitors. Infrastructure is designed to maintain high water quality, and systems are in place to promote energy efficiency and water and waste reduction.
Courtesy: TNFC
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PART 2
Plan Context
2.1 Plan Area The Cherry Creek - Savona Official Community Plan (OCP) is located within the central portion of Electoral Area “J” (Copper Desert Country). The Plan area extends the length of the Thompson River valley from the City of Kamloops municipal boundary to the mouth of Kamloops Lake. The OCP has a land area of 261.5 square kilometres and includes the communities of Cherry Creek, Tobiano and Savona. Other small settlement areas exist on Kamloops Lake, including Frederick. The communities are founded upon a heritage of agriculture, transportation and recreation within a picturesque rural environment.
The governance context is cooperative and open which has lead to transparent levels of communication and integration between all agencies. The TNRD consults with neighbouring jurisdictions which, in this case, includes the City of Kamloops, Kamloops Indian Band and Skeetchestn First Nation. Other long-range planning studies within the Plan area, including the Fringe Area Policy Paper, Coquihalla Highway Corridor Special Planning Study and Lakeshore Development Guidelines support long-range planning efforts regardless of political boundaries.
Figure 1 - Cherry Creek-Savona Official Community Plan Boundary
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In 1979, the Thompson-Nicola Regional District (TNRD) Board of Directors adopted the first Official Regional Plan for the TNRD. From this Plan evolved the first long- range planning initiative for the Cherry Creek-Savona area. The Cherry Creek-Savona Official Settlement Plan (OSP), adopted by the Board of Directors in July 1983, offered the first objectives and policies to guide decisions on planning and land use management within the Plan area. The OSP was subsequently reviewed in the early 1990s, culminating in the Cherry Creek-Savona Official Community Plan (OCP) approval in 1995. Since the first OSP, the northern Plan boundary bisected the centre of Kamloops Lake from east to west. In recognition of Kamloops Lake as the Plan’s focal point, the current Plan includes the whole lake.
2.2 Regional Objectives While communities within the Regional District have separate jurisdictional boundaries there are issues that are common to all. The TNRD Growth Strategy (RGS), a co- operative strategy for achieving a sustainable future for the region, underwent an extensive review process, culminating in bylaw approval in April 2013. The comprehensive review resulted in a refreshed RGS reflective of existing and projected growth for the region. The goals of Regional Growth Strategy Amendment Bylaw No. 2409 have been considered in determining the objectives and policies in this Official Community Plan.
RGS Vision: A Sustainable Future
To create a balance among goals relating to human settlement, economic development and environmental conservation, to ensure that development actions do not significantly limit the options of future generations.
The TNRD is a unique region of diverse urban and rural communities, wilderness and natural resource opportunities, and a vibrant economy.
Building on this diverse mix of urban and rural, resource and wilderness settings shall be the dominant guiding principle as new development is encouraged. Suburban and comprehensive resort places will grow while retaining their existing scope and character; rural places will remain rural while accepting appropriate new development; and settlement in resource areas will be limited and carefully managed.
The Cherry Creek - Savona OCP is consistent with the RGS vision. The OCP also promotes sustainability; balances settlement, development and conservation; and protects rural and resource settings focusing growth in “suburban” areas. For the purpose of this OCP, Savona and Tobiano are the two “suburban” areas that are the subject of future growth while Cherry Creek and the remainder of the Plan area are primarily “rural”.
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Goals . Promote and encourage local and regional economic development. . Protect and enhance the natural environment. . Protect and maintain access to the resource base. . Preserve the rural and wilderness character of the region. . Protect farmland and encourage farming. . Ensure adequate and appropriate services are provided. . Maintain mobility throughout the region. . Ensure adequate range of housing opportunities is available. . Promote regional collaboration on common issues. . Cooperate with First Nations in Planning and servicing matters.
The RGS goals are reflected very closely in the goals and policies of the OCP. The OCP goals also address economic development, environmental protection, agriculture and rural protection, infrastructure, transportation, housing diversity, regional collaboration, and cooperation with First Nations. Policies The following specific high level policies of the RGS (in italics) are followed by a summary of OCP approaches to each policy:
Human Settlement . Contain urban and rural sprawl by building on the existing network of diverse regional centres. Direct growth into established centres. Promote policies of infill and intensification. Ensure adequate levels of servicing are provided. This OCP supports growth in the communities of Savona and Tobiano where a broad range of community services are provided. The Plan also supports the Fringe Area Policy Paper which discourages the rural fragmentation of land on the periphery of the City of Kamloops and seeks to enhance the rural integrity by supporting agriculture, forestry and resource uses, and further, supports the City of Kamloops as the regional centre.
Energy & Transportation . Integrate energy and transportation considerations with land use and settlement planning to achieve conservation, mobility and efficiency goals. This OCP is consistent with that approach, with policies in support of alternative modes of transportation and objectives and targets for energy conservation, green building techniques and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
Economic Development . Broaden the region’s economic base through diversification and expansion. Support and encourage existing primary, secondary and tertiary industries while promoting new economic development opportunities.
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This OCP supports opportunities for varying levels of economic development in each of the three Plan area communities: Cherry Creek, Tobiano and Savona. Being predominantly rural in nature, the Plan supports agriculture and resource based development opportunities in the Cherry Creek area. In Tobiano, the Plan supports the continuing evolution of a mixed-use resort development to provide a wider range of housing and rental accommodation choices. Policies for Savona provide the broadest range of opportunities due to a variety of commercial/industrial land uses strategically located on a transportation hub with access to rail, highway and water.
Environmental Protection . Protect and enhance the environment through the adoption and co-operative use of stewardship principles. This OCP supports the use of policies, including the Lakeshore Development Guidelines and Development Permit Areas to provide adequate protection to the Plan area’s most environmentally sensitive areas. Policy implementation includes ground- water protection, foreshore protection and protection of those species that are at risk.
Open Space & Cultural Heritage . Protect the archaeological and heritage resources, open space and rural character of the TNRD. This OCP includes objectives and policies for protection of parks, archaeological, cultural and heritage facilities and features. Policies also address the importance of Kamloops Lake and area to First Nations.
Co-Operation and Process . Implement the RGS through the establishment of ongoing co-operative processes. This OCP supports ongoing communication and cooperation among all jurisdictions. The Plan was developed through a process that involved consultation with the Plan area residents, key stakeholders, Provincial agencies, municipal government and First Nations. The OCP likewise establishes a framework for the continuation of such cooperative procedures for Plan implementation and future amendments and updates.
The Cherry Creek-Savona OCP addresses the 14 matters recommended for inclusion in a Regional Growth Strategy. Per the requirements of a RGS, as mandated under the Local Government Act, the Regional District will continue to coordinate work with relevant provincial and federal agencies on the following initiatives: . Coordination of municipal and regional district Planning programs, including Official Community Plans; . Economic development; . Regional transportation planning; . Liquid waste management planning; . Lake use and navigation; . Parks, open space and recreation planning.
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2.3 First Nations - Secwepemc The Secwepemc are the indigenous peoples of the south central interior of British Columbia. The territory of the Secwepemc extends from the Columbia River Valley on the east slope of the Rocky Mountains to the Fraser River on the west and from the upper Fraser River in the north to the Arrow Lakes in the south. The landscape traditionally used by the Secwepemc covers a vast area, approximately 180,000 sq km, and includes: alpine, parkland, montane forest, grasslands, lakes, river terraces, and river valleys. Courtesy: Bonnie Leonard (SNTC) James Teit, an early ethnographer for the region, classified the Secwepemctsin speakers into tribal divisions. Teit further divided these tribal divisions into “bands”. A band was distinguished as being a major winter village with smaller villages and single dwellings associated with it. The people wintering on both sides of Kamloops Lake, at the outlet of Kamloops Lake and in the Deadman Valley were originally grouped into one Band called the Savona Band. The Savona Band became known as the Deadman Creek Band when the Reserve Commission of the late 1800’s relegated the people to a reserve in that valley. The contemporary Band’s name of “Skeetchestn” was reinstated in 1985. The people who traditionally wintered in the vicinity of the confluence of the north and south Thompson Rivers and west along the shores of Kamloops Lake became known as the Kamloops Band. In Teit’s classification, the Kamloops and Savona Bands were grouped together under the banner of the “Kamloops Division”.1
In 1982, all 17 Secwepemc bands signed the Shuswap Declaration, dedicated to the preservation and perpetuation of the Secwepemc language, culture, and history. This led to the 1983 formation of the Secwepemc Cultural Education Society, an effort to provide public education and curriculum materials about the Secwepemc, including the Secwepemc Museum and a native post-secondary education institute in Kamloops.2
Kamloops Lake has about 50 recorded archaeological sites around its shoreline. The Plan area potentially contains many more since archaeological studies have been limited. The Archaeology Branch of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts has information on these sites. In the interest of heritage and cultural resource protection, this data is not distributed to the public. The Province protects these sites, whether known or unrecorded, through the Heritage Conservation Act. This protection applies to both private and Crown land and means that one must have a heritage permit to alter or develop within or over an archaeological site.
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2.4 Post-Contact History Historic records for the Kamloops Lake area date back to the 1840s with the establishment of the Hudson’s Bay Company Brigade Trail from Kamloops to Fort Alexandria (south of present day Quesnel). When the trade routes from Fort Langley to Fort Kamloops became a priority (after trade routes south of the 49th parallel were cut off), a new route was found from Kamloops to 100 Mile House to replace the northern route through Little Fort. The trail extended west from Kamloops to Copper Creek on the north side of Kamloops Lake and north from Copper Creek through the Loon Lake area to Fort Alexandria and served as a fur trading supply route until 1858 when the first ferry was established in Savona.
Settlement in the Plan area began in the 1860’s and 1870’s. Given the strategic locations at the west and east ends of the lake, Savona and Kamloops emerged as the principle settlements on the lake. Travel corridors played a key role in settlement patterns in the Plan area. Savona’s Ferry at the mouth of Kamloops Lake linked the north and south shores and acted as a natural meeting and resting place for travelers. Paddle wheelers like the Kamloops and Marten plied the waters of Kamloops Lake through to the far reaches of Shuswap Lake. The 1880s saw the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) along the Source: BC Archives south shore of Kamloops Lake. The CPR station in Savona served as an area meeting place for generations. Construction of the Canadian Northern Railway (later the Canadian National) on Kamloops Lake’s north shore in 1915 further contributed to area development. Logging, sawmill operations and ranching provided key primary resource industry employment while tourism drew people to the lake’s shore and surrounding grasslands.
2.5 Population Growth and Housing
Every five years, Statistics Canada provides the most comprehensive statistical profile for the Electoral Area and region with the most recent survey being completed in 2011. Because of the unincorporated nature of the Plan area, Statistics Canada developed a customized population and occupied dwellings analysis for this review.
Courtesy: Cara McElvey
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According to Statistics Canada, the current Plan area has a population of approximately 1074, representing approximately 70% of the population of Electoral Area “J”. The current population represents a 3.2% decline from 1996 when the Plan area reached its highest modern day population rate of 1110. Since 2001, the area population has increased marginally by 3% between 2006 and 2011. The population increase contrasts with the 3% decrease in population change for Electoral Area “J” as a whole for the same time period. The increasing popularity of Savona and the evolving community of Tobiano have contributed in part to the population increase.
Growth patterns are summarized in Table A. Between 1986 and 1996, the plan area experienced the greatest population growth. Since 1991, the Plan area’s population has remained steady.
Table A: Population Trends
Reliably estimating growth in an area with a flatlined population and future demographic challenges is a difficult challenge. Table A provides a “what if” scenario reflecting the different growth rate assumptions based on the following three potential growth scenarios: a) Low (0.5%) growth scenario assumes no major or sudden migration changes or economic developments. b) Moderate (1.0%) scenario assumes progressive with limited but gradual growth due to increased amenity migration and population influx with future mining activities. c) High (1.5%) scenario assumes stable fertility rates and progressive growth due to in-migration.
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Population Plan Area Electoral Area Regional District
Characteristics
Private Dwellings 439 924 59,888
Total Number of 505 37,595 Census Families
Married or 925 64,245 common-law
Median age of 47.8 years 44 years population
Source – Statistics Canada
Table B: Population Overview
Population Profile Electoral Area "J" - 2011 100+ 90-94 80-84 70-74
60-64 50-54 40-44 AGE GROUP AGE 30-34 20-24 10-14 0-4 10 8 6 4 2 0 2 4 6 8 10 PERCENT OF TOTAL POPULATION Males Females
Source - Urban Futures (2012). A Context for Change Management in the Thompson-Nicola Regional District – Projections of Population, Housing and Employment Change.
Table C: Population Profile – Electoral Area “J”
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Using statistical information for the Electoral Area as a baseline, the data reveals the following demographic characteristics: • There are roughly an equal number of males and females. • The highest number of Plan area residents fall within the 50-54 and 60-64 age ranges. • The Plan area’s population in the 20-24, 25-29 and 30-34 age ranges fall below both the Regional and Provincial representations for the same age ranges. • The Plan area’s population in the 45-49, 50-54 and 60-64 age ranges exceed both the Regional and Provincial representations for the same age ranges. • The average number of people in private households is 2.7. In general, the area’s population profile is reflective of trends generally found throughout the Regional District and Province. With an aging population and a total fertility rate projected to remain below the replacement level, the role played by natural increase in shaping the area’s population will be less in the coming years than it has been in the past. Migration will therefore play a growing role in defining both the composition and size of the Region’s future population.3
Housing
Growth within the Plan area occurs with the consideration of objectives that have guided growth for each Plan area community and in context with the region as a whole.
Regional household maintainer rates suggest that a strong lifecycle pattern of housing occupancy that is characterized by high rates in the older age groups will combine with rapid growth of these older age groups, resulting in total housing occupancy demand growing faster than the Region’s population as a whole. Though not completely representative of the Plan area’s housing patterns, the trends suggest a shift towards other forms of housing as a result of accessibility, land values and increased diversification of the Region’s residents.4 Multi-family housing development in Tobiano, seasonal residency on Kamloops Lake and a large proportion of movable dwellings suggest localized gradual change.
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Total Population and Occupied Private Dwellings A Comparative Analysis
1,096 1,110 1,041 1,042 1,074 961 795
449 391 378 430 447 439 298
1981 1896 1991 1996 2001 2006 2011
Census Year Source: Statistics Canada
Total Population Occupied Private Dwellings
Table D: Population and Occupied Private Dwellings for Plan Area
In addition to the population history for the Plan area, Statistics Canada also prepared a customized data analysis of total occupied dwellings for each census year since 1981. Table D compares Plan area population with total occupied dwellings. Plan area population and number of dwelling units have remained relatively stable since 2001.
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PART 3
The Natural Environment
Context
The Cherry Creek – Savona corridor has an awe-inspiring arid landscape, stretching the length of Kamloops Lake from the City of Kamloops to Savona. With Kamloops Lake as the centerpiece, the copper desert valleys and sage encrusted grasslands are home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Although much of the Plan area remains in its natural state, there is a need to recognize and protect sensitive ecosystems, and ensure that when development occurs, the natural environment is a high priority.
3.1 Geography
Located on the Thompson Plateau, a sub-area to the more extensive Southern Interior Plateau, the Plan area is dominated by valleys carved into the landscape by a stagnating Cordilleran Ice Sheet 10,000–13,000 years ago. The resulting late-glacial ice dammed lakes dominated the valley from present-day Kamloops to Spences Bridge. Regional drainage once flowed east towards the Okanagan until a catastrophic ice dam failure approximately 10,000 years ago in the Spences Bridge area reversed flow. Kamloops Lake is what remains of a much larger Glacial Lake Thompson predating this event. Receding glacial lakes left behind the familiar clay cliffs.
The landscape is primarily rugged with remnants of ancient deltas, lacustrine plateaus and stratified silty and clayey soils. Steep slopes dominate the north side of Kamloops Lake while the south projects a greater variety of landscape features with rolling hills and plateaus overlooking the lake.
The area is in the rain shadow of the Coast Mountains, resulting in a semi-arid climate. Bunchgrass and Ponderosa Pine are the dominant biogeoclimatic zones with a Very Dry Hot subzone variant. The Plan area is also within the Southern Interior Ecoprovince – Thompson Basin Ecosection. The climate is characterized by warm to hot, dry summers and moderately cold winters with relatively little snowfall. The hot, dry climate has resulted in fragile ecosystems with limited plant productivity and soil development. At the Kamloops Airport, the average annual precipitation (rain and snow water equivalent) is 270 mm.
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Watercourses
Streams and Rivers The Thompson River/Kamloops Lake is the primary watercourse in the plan area. The area watershed is primarily ephemeral streams feeding into Kamloops Lake with the major watercourses being Cherry, Durand and Duffy Creeks and Tranquille River. The watershed is sensitive to upland activities and subsequently requires more comprehensive management strategies for the area’s surface water resources.
Lakes Water is a precious commodity in the Plan area, making the lakes and watercourses all the more “A lake is a landscape's most important features for their irreplaceable recreation, beautiful and expressive feature. It aesthetic and agricultural resources. Kamloops, is Earth's eye; looking into which Morgan, Pat and Beaton Lakes are the key water the beholder measures the depth bodies with each lake having diverse values. These of his own nature.” lakes support the natural habitats for a wide variety of fish and aquatic life, waterfowl, other wildlife and plant Henry David Thoreau - author species.
Kamloops Lake Kamloops Lake, the most prominent lake in the area, is referred to as a lake but is in fact a widening of the westward flowing Thompson River. It has a surface area of 51 km² and accounts for 20% of the total land area within the Plan.
The lake is approximately 27 km long with 57 km of shoreline and has a maximum depth of 143 metres. The lake is oligotrophic, meaning that it contains low levels of phosphorus, which acts to limit biological production (i.e. lower algal biomass and chlorophyll- a). The water is clear with sufficient oxygen throughout the year to support fish and other aquatic
Source – Google Maps organisms.
Most of the shoreline properties are large agricultural or rural parcels with the exception of Savona and a small pocket of lakeshore lots in Frederick. The lake is designated as a Special Case lake in the Lakeshore Development Guidelines because of the native cultural sites in the area. The lake is home to anadromous salmonids (sockeye, Chinook, steelhead), non-anadromous salmonids (whitefish, kokanee, rainbow trout) and other species (burbot, sculpins, white sturgeon and suckers).
Despite its size and proximity to a major urban centre, Kamloops Lake has historically been one of the most underutilized lakes in the region. Challenging topography coupled with railway lines on the north and south shores limit the number of lake
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access points. Increased regional and municipal lakeshore development in the past ten years has lead to increased watercraft use, including a new marina for the Tobiano area. The lake’s recreational values continue to be discovered. Survey respondents indicated concerns related to increased lake usage and the resulting impacts on resident’s solitude and tranquility.
Pat (Six Mile) Lake Pat Lake is a grassland lake 9.6 km east of Savona accessed via Six Mile Lake Road off the Trans- Canada Highway. The lake was first stocked with rainbow trout in 1940 and has been stocked annually since 1961. It is relatively small (8.1 ha) with a maximum depth of 6.1 metres. The lake is designated as a Critical (water quality) and Special Case (irrigation or agricultural use) lake in the Lakeshore Development Guidelines. Pat Lake is one of the first ice-free lakes in the region, making it an early spring destination for anxious diehard flyfishers. Unfortunately, the lake is susceptible to winterkill due to its shallow waters.
Morgan Lake Morgan Lake is located 9.3 km west of Savona on Six Mile Lake Road. It is approximately 2.7 ha and has an outlet dam at the southeast end to provide water storage for fisheries management/conservation. Work has been ongoing to divert water into the lake to reduce the pH levels and enhance fish survival. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout and has gained recent notoriety as a popular recreational fishery.
Beaton Lake is a small, stocked lake located in the hills above Cherry Creek and is regarded for its recreational uses.
Courtesy: John Passmore
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3.2 Environment Objectives • To protect the environment, human health and safety by striving for clean water, land and air management. • To increase environmental awareness and promote activities that protects and enhances the area’s diverse ecological systems and biodiversity. • To protect environmentally sensitive or hazardous lands such as steep slopes, floodplains, watersheds and shorelines that are subject to erosion, natural and man-made hazards. • To plan for the impacts of climate change. • To recognize the Kamloops Airshed and boundary and the policy direction set by the “City of Kamloops Airshed Management Plan”. • To protect the surface and groundwater resources through responsible and sustainable long-range management practices. • To preserve sensitive ecosystem areas, their living resources and connections between them in a natural connection and maintain these areas free of development and human activity to the maximum extent possible.
3.3 Environment Policies - General • Co-operate with senior governments to develop a stewardship strategy for lakes and watercourses including Riparian Area identification and Development Permit guidelines. • Encourage those in the practice of agriculture to be conscious of noxious weed management, water management and soil management. • Provide public information and education on appropriate land and water management in and near riparian and environmentally sensitive areas. • Discourage burning of brush and encourage composting and chipping, with reuse, as a priority.
3.4 Natural Hazard Areas
Hazard lands include, but are not limited to areas the Regional District has reason to believe are subject to flooding, erosion, rock fall, subsidence and wildfire.
Natural Hazard Objectives
3.4.1 To discourage or prevent development in areas subject to known hazardous conditions, unless the hazard has been sufficiently addressed.
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3.4.2 To prevent injury and loss of life and to prevent or minimize property damage as a result from natural hazards. 3.4.4 To plan today for the impacts and resulting hazards associated with climate change.
Natural Hazard Policies
3.4.5 Development in natural hazard areas requires a Development Permit as illustrated on Map_____. 3.4.6 Direct development away from lands that may have a potential natural hazard, including susceptibility to soil instability and potentially hazardous geotechnical conditions, or those lands identified as hazardous by the Regional District or other agencies having jurisdiction. 3.4.7 Require new development areas with slopes and grades over 30% to be reviewed for soil instability, potentially hazardous conditions and environmental sensitivity. Development shall follow the recommendations of a geotechnical report and/or an environmental impact assessment in the case of environmentally sensitive areas, prepared by a qualified professional to address the potential hazards and environmental sensitivity. 3.4.8 Mandate that the construction and siting of buildings and structures to be used for habitation, business, industry, or the storage of goods damageable by flood waters to be flood proofed to standards consistent with Zoning Bylaw No. 2400, where land is within the floodplain.
Wildfire Hazard Policies
The provisions of this section are pursuant to the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations designations of High, Moderate, or Low Wildfire Hazard lands as mapped by the Regional District, and for lands within a two kilometer Buffer Area of High Wildfire Hazard where development is at risk of airborne embers.
3.4.9 In the case of High Wildfire Hazard lands, where any subdivision or land use application will create four or more parcels or four or more dwelling units, the owner must submit to the Regional District a Wildfire Hazard Assessment Report, prepared by a licensed registered professional forester or qualified forestry professional analyzing the proposed development.
3.4.10 The Wildfire Hazard Assessment Report required under the preceding must:
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a) assess the current wildfire hazard risk; b) assess conditions on and off-site including neighbouring lands; c) evaluate the proposed development for wildfire susceptibility; and d) recommend steps for wildfire hazard mitigation to reduce the risk of wildfire for the land and buildings to a moderate or lower risk level.
3.4.11 The recommendations of the Wildfire Hazard Assessment Report must be implemented during development and incorporated into a s. 219 of the Land Title Act restrictive covenant registered on the parcel title advising owners of their responsibility to manage land and buildings in accordance with the Wildfire Hazard Assessment Report.
3.4.12 In the case where an application will create four or more parcels and the land is not in a mapped or categorized area, the owner may be required to undertake a Wildfire Hazard Assessment Report.
3.4.13 In the case of High Wildfire Hazard lands where a subdivision or land use application will create three or less parcels or three or less dwelling units, the owner is not required to submit a Wildfire Hazard Assessment Report; however, the owner must register a restrictive covenant on the parcel title under s. 219 of the Land Title Act encouraging Fire Smart wildfire hazard mitigation practices for building construction and land management.
3.4.13 In the case of a Buffer Area or Moderate to Low Wildfire Hazard, any subdivision or land use application shall trigger a requirement for the owner to register a restrictive covenant on the parcel title(s) encouraging Fire Smart wildfire hazard mitigation practices for building construction and land management.
3.4.14 Where wildfire hazard mitigation requirements and Riparian Areas Regulation requirements contradict, the Riparian Areas Regulation requirements prevail.
3.4.15 Work with the community and other government groups to ensure the Cherry Creek- Savona-Thompson River Estates - Walhachin Evacuation Plan is updated, promoted, and implemented.
3.5 Natural Resource Management
Wildlife Habitat and Management Policies 3.5.1 Work co-operatively with the Federal and Provincial government agencies to protect wildlife and wildlife habitat. 3.5.2 Require the connectivity and movement of wildlife, especially threatened and endangered species, be considered at the time of bylaw amendment applications.
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Environmentally Sensitive Areas - Species at Risk / Ecosystems at Risk
The Cherry Creek – Savona area is home to a number of Species at Risk and Ecosystems at Risk. The term Species at Risk refers to species, subspecies or populations that are designated federally under the Species at Risk Act or provincially on the Red or Blue List. Provincially, ecosystems can also be designated as at risk and placed on the Red or Blue List.
The British Columbia Conservation Data Centre (CDC) assigns species and ecological communities that are at risk to a Red or Blue List. These lists have 2 purposes: 1. provide for formal designation federally or provincially under the BC Wildlife Act; and 2. help the province set conservation priorities for species at risk in BC.
The Red List includes species, subspecies, and ecological communities that are threatened, endangered, or extirpated in British Columbia. The Blue List includes species, subspecies, and ecological communities that are considered to be of special concern in British Columbia. These lists include species and ecosystems that have threats, declining populations, or restricted distributions thereby requiring special attention so that they may be maintained as part of our ecosystems.
Some areas within the OCP are considered Environmentally Sensitive Areas (ESAs) because they are ecosystems at risk or provide habitat for species at risk. The following is a list of ESAs within the Plan area: • Cottonwood Riparian Areas • Wetlands • Rocky Outcrops and Cliffs • Ponderosa Pine Ecosystems • Grasslands • Habitat for species at risk
Most ESAs within the Plan area have been mapped and are shown on Maps 2A and 2B; however, not all ESAs have been mapped. The following describes Plan area ESAs.
Cottonwood Riparian Areas Cottonwood forests are found in the southern interior of BC along the banks of streams and lakes where moisture is plentiful. Cottonwoods can form extensive stands and can grow to extraordinary size, up to 40 metres in height. Areas where cottonwoods are found are also highly desirable for urban development and for transportation corridors such as highways, railways, power lines and pipelines and as a result many areas have been partially or completely cleared. The BC Conservation Data Centre has
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ranked the cottonwood ecosystems of the southern interior among the rarest Plant communities of the province.
Cottonwood forests of the southern interior provide crucial habitat for a wide range of Plant and animal species. Many bird species, including orioles, veeries, gray cat birds, and pileated woodpeckers, prefer the cooler moist habitats and would not otherwise survive the arid southern interior environment. Cottonwood stands often have large standing dead trees or snags, which provide nesting, foraging, and roosting sites for species such as osprey, eagles, owls, and woodpeckers. Species at risk that rely on cottonwoods include Lewis’ Woodpecker, Western Screech Owl, Great Blue Heron, and the blue listed Western Rattlesnake, North American Racer, and Gopher Snake, all come to these areas to cool off.
Wetlands Wetlands are unique ecosystems that provide important habitats for a range of wildlife species in the Thompson Region. As a transition zone between land and water, wetlands provide a wide range of habitats from wet meadows, wet forests, to open water. About 500 Plant and animal species in BC as well as migratory birds are associated with wetlands. Some of the species at risk that rely on wetlands in the Thompson area include Great Basin Spadefoot, Yellow-headed Blackbird Western Toad, and Western Painted Turtle.
Rocky Outcrops and Cliffs Dry sparsely vegetated rock and cliff habitats are found throughout the grasslands and open forests at all elevations. They provide habitat for many animals throughout the year. During the winter months they provide hibernation sites for many of BC’s snake species at risk and some bat species. Rock absorb heat during the day, providing a warmer place to bask during the day in the spring and fall or to overnight for animals such as snakes and insects. Rock crevices provide shelter for various species and can be important roosting sites for many of BC’s bat species. Many bird species, including Peregrine Falcon, build their nests in rocky areas or on cliffs while other bird species use cliffs to evade predators.
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Rocky outcrops are important habitats for several BC snake species at risk. Snakes rely on these hibernation sites to survive the BC winter. These dens or hibernacula maintain adequately warm temperatures for snakes to survive. The snakes that gather each fall at den sites include Western Rattlesnake (Blue List), Gopher Snake (Blue List), North American Racer (Blue List) and the Common and Western Terrestrial Garter Snakes.
Ponderosa Pine Ponderosa Pine ecosystems are located at low elevations along the very dry valleys of BC’s southern interior. Ponderosa Pine, one of the biogeoclimatic zones mapped by the Ministry of Forests, is a narrow band that can occur between grasslands and the interior Douglas fir forests. These ecosystems consist of a mosaic of grassland and ponderosa pine trees. These trees can also be found scattered throughout the grasslands at lower elevations. Many wildlife species use this narrow band of habitat including many of the same species found in grassland habitats and others that rely on conifer seeds such as Clark’s Nutcracker and White- breasted Nuthatch. Lewis’ Woodpecker (Red List) is primarily found in cottonwood riparian habitats or dry, open ponderosa pine stands, but they will also use scattered trees in grasslands or suburban areas with large trees.
Grasslands Source: TNFC Grasslands represent less than 1% of the provincial land base but provide habitat for more than 30% of our threatened or endangered species and more than 40% of our recreationally hunted game species. They also provide critical range and winter habitat for native ungulates. Grasslands are threatened by urban expansion, agriculture, recreation, and a variety of other land-uses.
Typical species found in southern interior grasslands include bluebunch wheatgrass, rough fescue, Idaho fescue, Sandberg’s bluegrass, junegrass, porcupine grass, and big sagebrush. Nearly 42% of the 2854 vascular Plant species that occur in BC are found on grasslands. The Thompson area has over 50 Plant species at risk that occur in grasslands. A few that may be found in the Plan area include blue grama (Red List), scarlet gaura (Red List), and dwarf groundsmoke (Blue List).
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Grasslands provide nesting and foraging habitat for wildlife species as well as critical wildlife corridors connecting other habitats used by these species. Examples of ground nesting birds in the grasslands include Long-billed Curlew (Blue List), Sharp-tailed Grouse (Blue List) and Short eared Owl (Blue List). Three
Long-billed curlew Blue Listed snake species, Western Rattlesnake, Gopher Snake, and Racers move from den sites into grasslands and Source: Wikimedia open forests to forage through the summer months. American Badger (Red List) and two Blue Listed bat species, Fringed Myotis and Spotted Bat also use grasslands for foraging and roosting.
Other Habitat for Species at Risk Many species at risk are found solely within the habitats described above. Other species are wide ranging, traversing ecosystems and multiple habitats. Many habitats for species at risk are not mapped. An example of a wide ranging species that also uses multiple habitats is the American Badger (Red List), which uses grasslands and open forests. Adult males may have a home range 100 km2 or larger. In addition, BC has over 1000 Plants on either the Red or Blue Lists and many Plant species at risk occur in a variety of habitats and locations throughout the Thompson area.
3.5.2 Recognize the presence of blue and red listed species along with environmentally sensitive areas in the Plan area as shown on Maps 2A and 2B. 3.5.3 Encourage and support the inventory of environmentally sensitive areas identified by the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations. 3.5.4 Work with the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations and other agencies regarding Planning and land use management of Crown lands, especially the sensitive grassland areas within the Plan area. American badger 3.5.5 Encourage and support habitat conservation and Source: Wikimedia restoration. 3.5.6 Raise public awareness of responsible environmental stewardship practices. 3.5.7 Avoid development in rocky outcrop or cliff habitat areas. 3.5.8 Promote the Regional District’s Noxious Weed Control program.
Climate Change and Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions (2010 data update)
In 2007, the Provincial Government passed Bill 44 – the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Targets Act – thereby committing the Province to reduce GHG emissions by 33% below 2007 levels by the year 2020 and 80% below 2007 levels by the year 2050. In order to help achieve this goal, the Province enacted the Local Government (Green
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Communities) Statutes Amendment Act (Bill 27). Under this legislation and Section 877(3) of the Local Government Act, Official Community Plans are now required to include targets for the reduction of GHG emissions as well as policies and actions to support the reduction targets.
As signatory to the B.C. Climate Action Charter, the TNRD has voluntarily agreed to develop strategies and take actions to achieve the following goals: • become carbon neutral; • measure and report on the community’s GHG emissions profile; and • create complete, compact, more energy efficient rural and urban communities.
Targets The Province provided each local government with a Community Energy & Emissions Inventory (CEEI) report to track and report annual community-wide energy consumption and GHG emissions. For the baseline year 2007, the Regional District’s CEEI report includes GHG emission estimates in three sectors - on-road transportation, buildings, and solid waste. There is no specific data on the quantity of GHG emissions generated
within the Plan area. However, the CEEI data shows that Source: University of Calgary transportation accounts for the majority of GHG emissions in the region followed by buildings and solid waste. Reducing transportation emissions is a challenge in rural communities therefore additional Provincial and Federal Government policies, actions and initiatives will be needed to support the community- wide GHG reduction targets set by the Regional District.
Recognizing the challenges of reducing GHG emissions in rural communities, the Regional District sets the following community-wide GHG reduction targets: • 10% by 2020 from 2007 levels • 33% by 2050 from 2007 levels The Regional District will utilize the provincially supplied 2007 CEEI data as the baseline for measuring GHG emission reductions.
Climate Change 3.5.9 Consider climate change and the impacts of land use decision making on climate change when reviewing new development applications and undertaking long-range Planning initiatives. 3.5.10 Encourage compact community design, infill development and planning strategies that reinforce smart growth principles and best practices in sustainable development. 3.5.11 Encourage and support non-vehicular walkways (horse), walking trails and alternative modes of transportation to help reduce automobile dependence. 3.5.12 Encourage home-based businesses that do not create a nuisance or detract from the residential character of a neighbourhood.
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3.5.13 Encourage and support energy efficient new construction and the retrofit of existing buildings. 3.5.14 Encourage water conservation, including the installation of low-flow plumbing fixtures in new construction. 3.5.15 Encourage low-impact renewable energy generation including solar and geothermal technology. 3.5.16 Encourage and support initiatives to upgrade wood-burning appliances through wood stove exchange programs. 3.5.17 Support the preservation of agricultural lands and local food production. 3.5.18 Encourage local community gardens and farmers’ markets within the Plan Area. 3.5.19 Encourage tree planting where appropriate and the retention of existing healthy trees and natural vegetation during new development. 3.5.20 Support recycling initiatives through ongoing support for the area eco-depot. Source: Ministry of Environment
Advocacy Policies 3.5.21 As signatory to the Climate Action Charter, the Regional District will take steps to address and support the goals of the Charter. 3.5.22 Raise awareness about BC Climate Action and energy conservation by making relevant informational material available to residents of the Regional District. 3.5.23 Investigate potential incentives to builders, developers and homeowners who incorporate alternative energy sources. 3.5.24 Investigate the feasibility of a tree planting incentive program for residents of the Regional District. 3.5.25 Request the Province’s continued support in providing the Regional District with the tools and resources necessary to monitor and measure GHG reduction levels. 3.5.26 Continue to raise awareness about recycling and landfill diversion through educational initiatives such as newsletters, information guides, and newspaper inserts. 3.5.27 Continue to explore opportunities to reduce energy use at Regional District recycling and refuse transfer stations including through the use of alternative energy generation. 3.5.28 Support waste reduction policies and actions outlined in the Regional Solid Waste Management Plan, including a region-wide goal of 30% reduction in waste disposal by 2013 (from 2004 levels).
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Lake Stewardship Most upland parcels on Kamloops Lake are either private or Crown lands. Foreshore lands, or those lands below the natural boundary, are public lands and governed by the Province. Governance includes docks and buoys. In only very rare occasions is the lakebed privately-owned. Riparian landowners (of upland properties bordering the foreshore) have riparian rights which include access to navigable waters, erosion protection and the ability to apply for ownership of accretion.
3.5.29 Support the implementation of the Lakeshore Development Guidelines through policy compliance and Development Permit requirements. 3.5.30 Support any efforts to develop or enhance new or existing public access points on Kamloops Lake. 3.5.31 Ensure public safety along Kamloops Lake foreshore by reporting on any physical barriers that are placed on foreshore lands that impede safe public passage or environmental degradation. 3.5.32 Lakefront property owners who wish to construct docks or install buoys in Kamloops Lake must apply to the Province for the appropriate approvals to ensure such placements provide safe public passage and protects the aquatic environment.
Advocacy Policy 3.5.33 The Regional District supports and encourages adherence to the principles and guidelines contained in the Fisheries and Oceans Canada publications The Shore Primer and The Dock Primer along with the private publication On the Living Edge: Your Handbook for Waterfront Living for development of any waterfront property.
3.6 Water Resources Surface and groundwater resources are the area’s most valuable resources essential to support a range of lifestyles and livelihoods. Watershed stewardship is a community-based responsibility to ensure a healthy water supply for future generations through protection of the area’s headwaters and aquifers from the harmful impacts of contamination and overconsumption. Protecting critical water sources and encouraging conscious and efficient water use will ensure that area residents have access to safe, clean and sustainable water sources for the long-term.
Objectives 3.6.30 To manage and protect the Plan area’s water resources in a sustainable fashion in order to prevent irreversible or undesirable impacts to surface and ground water resources. 3.6.31 To promote responsible water conservation strategies that will reduce water demand by discouraging non-essential or wasteful water use.
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3.6.32 To maintain high water quality in surface water, groundwater and aquifers. 3.6.33 To acquire a more comprehensive knowledge of the area’s aquifers by mapping, regulating land use impacts on hydrology and monitoring the quality and quantity of the groundwater.
Policies 3.6.34 Subdivision or development utilizing surface water sources, other than Kamloops Lake or pre-existing water licenses, shall be discouraged 3.6.35 Resource extraction and development within the Plan area watershed or water recharge areas shall not compromise domestic or agricultural water use, impact fish and wildlife habitat or negatively impact groundwater quality or quantity. 3.6.36 Stormwater management Plans are to be prepared for all new development in order to effectively consider stormwater management options for impermeable surfaces. To reduce impacts on riparian and environmentally sensitive areas, water recycling through the use of cisterns is encouraged. 3.6.37 Water conservation techniques are encouraged through the use of low volume fixtures, evening irrigation and native landscape vegetation.
Cherry Creek 3.6.38 Allow new development (including zoning bylaw amendment and subdivision) relying on groundwater only where a Qualified Professional Hydrologist or Groundwater Geologist knowledgeable in hydrogeology can demonstrate that the use of such groundwater will not detrimentally affect surface water sources or groundwater sources needed for ecosystem services, used by existing developments or relied upon for agricultural operations.
Savona 3.6.39 Community water system users will work towards a system of water meters to measure consumption. 3.6.40 Consider alternate financial opportunities such as the use of a Development Cost Charge to finance service infrastructure improvements.
Tobiano 3.6.41 Work towards an improved foreshore area as a means to provide additional lakeshore recreation opportunities.
Advocacy Policies 3.6.41 Undertake the preparation of a groundwater management strategy for Cherry Creek as a means to ensure sustainable groundwater reserves.
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PART 4
Planning Issues: A Neighbourhood Review
4.1 “Go West Young Man” – Western Migration and the Cadastral Evolution
First Nations established the initial settlement locations within the Plan area, selecting the utilitarian places for seasonal habitation. Early trade routes, the Gold Rush and railway development significantly impacted migration and the resulting settlement patterns.
The OCP area is traversed by the Railway Belt established during the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR). Under the terms of Confederation, the Dominion of Canada was granted a belt of land 64 km (40 miles) wide along the CPR from Courtesy: Association of BC Land Surveyors the Rockies to tidewater as compensation for the enormous cost of building a railway through BC’s mountain terrain. The subsequent Dominion Land Survey system lead to one square mile sections being developed for agriculture and other purposes.
This system was further refined into the system we still know today as Section, Township and Range. District Lots represent parcels that were created and sold to settlers mostly in the time from 1860-1890. Over time, these lots were further subdivided into blocks and “Legal Subdivisions”. While some original lots exist in the Plan area, the physical form of each community in the Plan area is representative of the various eras of land use development and densities that have evolved over the past 130 years.5
4.2 Settlement Area Planning Communities within the Plan area have evolved in different ways for different reasons, resulting in land use patterns and choices reflective of the various eras. Residents made it very clear that the new OCP should recognize the Plan area’s three distinct communities – Savona, Tobiano, and Cherry Creek - with each community maybe having shared objectives but separate policy allotment to achieve localized sense of place and community. Other smaller or seasonal settlements exist outside the settlement areas, including Frederick and Copper Creek. Based on comments from residents in each community, it is clear that the settlement areas share common goals and objectives but different area-specific issues.
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Growth Management Area Boundaries
Savona, Tobiano and Cherry Creek are unincorporated; however, growth management boundaries are established to enhance each community. The boundaries are not political or future municipal borders. They simply represent the demarcation of a new foundation for more compact and sustainable communities. Additionally, the Plan must meet the needs and requirements for residential housing for at least five years.
The preference for compact communities is a desired alternative to rural or urban residential sprawl which can impact agricultural land but also can have other significant adverse impacts in terms of water conservation, wildfire interface area and increased demand for premature services. Development may occur outside the defined areas; however, growing smarter with growth management areas will help residents develop a course of action that will lead each respective community to a more sustainable future and accommodate the desired growth for each area. Three Growth Management Areas are proposed as follows:
Growth Management Area (Cherry Creek) permits agriculture, resource extraction, large lot agri-residential uses, limited local and tourist commercial and foreshore uses. Large parcels in this area will accommodate large agri-residential parcels with single and two-family dwellings.
Growth Management Area (Tobiano) permits single, two-family and multi-family parcels, resort commercial and tourism (trails, foreshore, golf course, marina) uses. These lands will accommodate higher density residential/resort parcels and medium density parcels to a maximum density of 1952 dwelling units.
Growth Management Area (Savona) permits small lot residential and accessory uses, commercial, industrial, institutional and tourism (parks, trails, foreshore) uses. These lands would accommodate smaller suburban residential lot sizes with a minimum parcel size of 2000 square metres.
Growth Management Area Objectives 4.2.1 To recognize and maintain each growth management area’s unique identity as a distinct community. 4.2.2 To cooperate and support the Plan area as a whole in order to secure the long term interests of all residents. 4.2.3 To direct growth into already serviced areas to: • maintain the integrity of existing urban and rural areas • reduce the costs of providing road, sewer, water and drainage services by fully utilizing existing service infrastructure; and • promote compact complete neighbourhoods where a variety of lifestyle, housing, economic and cultural opportunities are available.
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Cherry Creek Cherry Creek, named for the profusion of chokecherries found by the early fur traders, has also been referred to as Riviere en Cereise and Cherry Bluff Creek. The first independent farms were established here in 1860 by Donald McAulay and John McIver, both retired Hudson’s Bay Company agents.
Bounded by the City of Kamloops to the east, Cherry Creek area is characterized by rolling hills, natural grasslands and agricultural uses. Large, multi-parcel ranching operations, including Cherry Creek Ranch, dominated most of the land area until the 1970s. Mining activity occurred in the Roper Hill and Ironmask Hill areas. Parcels generally remained in their original configuration until the early 1970s when the first multi-lot subdivisions were approved in the Gardi Road area. The zoning and the ALR were introduced in 1972. Despite some earlier subdivisions being approved with parcel sizes less than eight hectares, long-range planning policies, limited groundwater resources and ALR authority have discouraged the creation of additional small parcels. Cherry Creek is an unincorporated area with limited services. The neighbourhood remains as a rural, agricultural community with limited commercial activity. Mineral claims and active mining operations continue to flank the north and east boundaries while small scale local commercial activities dot the neighbourhood. According to our survey, residents cherish the rural atmosphere they have so close to of Kamloops and recognize that with large lot development and limited population, urban type services are premature. Primary issues or areas of concern are as follow: • Preserving a rural lifestyle on larger residential parcels; • Lack of social cohesion – need for a community “centre”; • Study sustainable groundwater sources with the purpose of resource protection; • Protect environmentally sensitive and hazard lands and safeguard from hazardous conditions (e.g. wildfire); and • Create a fire protection service.
Cherry Creek – Neighbourhood Objectives 4.4.1 To maintain large lot parcels and discourage unsustainable density requests. 4.4.2 To protect agriculture and resource uses along with a pastoral lifestyle.
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4.4.3 To protect the long-term sustainability of the groundwater resource. 4.4.4 To encourage home-based businesses that do not alter primary residential use or neighbourhood character. 4.4.5 To encourage local agri-tourism and agri-business opportunities.
Cherry Creek – Neighbourhood Policies 4.5.1 Ensure bylaw compliance with respect to subdivision and parcel size. 4.5.2 Encourage community activities and events that generate inter-generational and inter- cultural interest, participation and social integration. 4.5.3 Review and monitor additional dwelling units for bylaw compliance. 4.5.4 Seek funding opportunities for a Groundwater Management Plan for the Cherry Creek neighbourhood.
Figure 2 - Cherry Creek Growth Management Area
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Tobiano The Tobiano resort community was approved as a comprehensive resort in 1998. Formerly known as Six Mile Ranch and Kamloops on the Lake, the resort development formally changed its name to “Tobiano” in 2010.
Set upon the benchlands overlooking Kamloops Lake, the community is framed by Kamloops Lake to the north, Six Mile Protected Area to the west and the rural farms and grasslands to the south and east. The master- planned, comprehensive resort community is planned for 1952 dwelling units and 500 resort accommodation units within the commercial area. Lake access and recreation is further enhanced by the Tobiano marina. The subdivision layout is designed to capture views and though unincorporated, has full community water and sewer services. Residential and commercial areas have been pre-zoned with a maximum density provision under a Comprehensive Development zone. Unlike the other more established neighbourhoods, Tobiano’s sense of place and community continues to evolve. Initial residential development has contributed to Tobiano’s status as a golf resort and bedroom community for the city of Kamloops.
The development accommodates a broad range of residential and resort commercial options, from country residential lots permitting large detached homes to multi-family residential units. Though the community’s residential components have slowly forged their place around the golf course, the planned commercial areas have not yet been developed. Primary issues or areas of concern are as follow: • Direct growth to serviced areas (e.g. Savona/Tobiano); • Implement stronger policy for lakeshore protection; and • Protect environmentally sensitive and hazard lands.
Courtesy: Urban Systems
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Tobiano – Neighbourhood Objectives 4.6.1 To continue to support a comprehensive resort community comprised of a mix of residential and commercial land use choices. 4.6.2 To promote an expanded range of recreational uses on Kamloops Lake. 4.6.3 To protect the extraordinary viewscape afforded by Kamloops Lake and the arid natural landscape.
Tobiano – Neighbourhood Policies 4.7.1 Support ongoing marina development and waterway connectivity between Kamloops Lake and Thompson River system. 4.7.2 Encourage the development of existing or vacant lots. 4.7.3 Support the development of a Neighbourhood Plan. 4.7.4 Encourage the development of new commercial pursuits.
Figure 3 - Tobiano Growth Management Area
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Savona Savona is located on Kamloops Lake at the western end of the Plan area. New and changing transportation corridors have shifted the townsite location, evoked changes in the community’s name and impacted key land uses in the community.
Francois Saveneux settled here on the south shore in 1858 to run a cable ferry across Boute Source: TNFC du Lac (present Kamloops Lake). The ferry, catering mainly to American miners in the early days of the interior Gold Rush, was run in conjunction with the Hudson’s Bay Company north shore wharf and warehouse (at Savona’s Ferry). Following CPR completion, the village moved to the south shore, and was briefly known as Port Van Horne. Cornelius Van Horne, past General Manager of the CPR, “apparently regarded such a small place as beneath his worth and so the name reverted to Savona’s Ferry, then contracted to Savona about 1910”.6,7
Like many railway communities, the original townsite Plan was laid out and surveyed in a gridiron pattern with no regard for topography or fluctuating lake levels. The gridiron suited the egalitarian spirit that characterized the settlement patterns of the time: ample land, equal parcels and similarity of sites.
The Trans-Canada Highway shifted to its present location from Savona Access Road in the mid-1950s. Since that time, many tourist recreational and highway commercial uses have vanished from the lakeshore area. A mix of seasonal or permanent residential uses replaces many of the old lakeshore motels, campgrounds and auto courts that dotted the Savona waterfront. Some original townsite lots are development challenged due to the constrained parcel size and lack of community sewer facilities. Today, Savona is a spirited lakeside residential community with commercial and industrial operations, including Savona Specialty Plywood, Savona Equipment, Spectra Energy Transmission and Nelson Machinery.
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Savona – Neighbourhood Objectives 4.8.1 To ensure an acceptable level of growth and intensification commensurate with sufficient, affordable community service levels. 4.8.2 To recognize and support the community’s unique lakeside character. 4.8.3 To conserve and protect the environmental integrity of Kamloops Lake and surrounding grasslands. 4.8.4 To support the primary resource industries in the area.
Savona – Neighbourhood Policies 4.9.1 Support the development of existing vacant lots, including infill subdivision, provided that all bylaw requirements are met. 4.9.2 New development shall be serviced with the Savona community water system. 4.9.3 Support a neighbourhood service centre that consists of local neighbourhood commercial uses and services in support of the local area, especially the area’s youth.
Figure 4 - Savona Growth Management Area
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PART 5
Agriculture and Resource Use
5.1 Agriculture
Context For over 150 years agriculture has helped shape the Plan area’s land use patterns, creating a rural atmosphere that remains an important feature for today’s residents. Vast expanses of natural grasslands and open range coupled with acceptable soil types help maintain local ranching and farming. Today, local agriculture includes Courtesy: TNFC forage farms, specialty agri-marketing, local fruit and vegetable and animal husbandry operations.
The Agriculture designation seeks a balance between preserving and utilizing farm land for a broad range of agricultural uses. This designation will ensure that primary agricultural use and activities associated with agriculture are permitted and consistent with Provincial legislation and Agricultural Land Commission (ALC) policies. These lands support extensive agricultural uses and contribute to the rural character of the area.
Farming and ranching are challenging ventures in the Plan area. Local farmers maintain their livelihoods despite rising fuel costs, poor soil capability, changing market conditions, limited water resources and grassland degradation. Despite these challenges, farming and ranching are a lifestyle choice for many residents in the Plan area. Farming, ranching and local food production will play an increasingly important role in the future as import costs continue to rise and food security becomes a greater concern.
Agricultural Land Reserve
The Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) covers approximately 33% of the Plan area (see Figure 5). The ALC is an independent Provincial agency responsible for administering the Province's land use controls in support of agriculture and the authority to regulate subdivision and non-farm uses within the ALR. The ALC works with local government to ensure community plans are consistent with the land use zones and that small-lot development is generally directed away from ALR lands.
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Figure 5 - Agricultural Land Reserve Boundaries
Agriculture Objectives 5.1.1 To preserve existing large rural and agricultural parcels in recognition that the majority of the Plan area will continue to remain primarily rural in nature, with limited community services and infrastructure. 5.1.2 To ensure that valuable agricultural lands are preserved for agricultural purposes and protected from inappropriate fragmentation through subdivision. 5.1.3 To encourage protection of land designated as Agriculture through support of the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) and encouragement of farm use on agricultural lands. 5.1.4 To protect and maintain the economic viability of the agricultural sector and encourage its improvement and expansion.
Agriculture Policies 5.1.5 Areas designated Agriculture are shown on Maps 1A, 1B and 1C. Agriculture is permitted in areas designated Resource. In areas designated Agriculture, agriculture should be the primary and dominant land use, including crop and livestock production.
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5.1.6 The minimum parcel size for lands designated Agriculture and Resource use is 8 ha. Much of this land is within the ALR where parcel sizes are regulated under the Agricultural Land Commission Act. The ALC may approve subdivisions for smaller parcels under certain conditions (e.g. Home Site Severance).
5.1.7 Encourage agri-tourism/ agri-business opportunities, uses considered complementary to agricultural land use and thus acceptable in the Agriculture designation (subject to conditions set out in the Zoning Bylaw and the Agricultural Land Commission Act).
5.1.8 The Regional District may support an application for exclusion from the ALR (i.e. advance the application to the ALC) or an application for subdivision within the ALR, provided: • there are no negative impacts on agriculture; • it is demonstrated that the land is physically and economically incapable of supporting agriculture as evaluated by a qualified professional agrologist; or • it is recognized that the land’s agricultural potential is restrained by a combination of factors such as the location of transportation corridors, proximity of residential development, mineral tenure or the size, location and character of the parcel.
5.1.9 Encourage support for the agriculture industry and local food production by establishing economic strategies that promote the industry and identify new markets.
5.1.10 Support programs designed to increase public awareness of invasive plants and the implications of their spread.
5.1.11 The rural character of Settlement Area 1 (Cherry Creek) shall be maintained to encourage the establishment of the widest range of agricultural activities.
5.1.12 Retain good quality agriculture lands intact so as to not detract from agricultural viability.
5.1.13 Discourage the proliferation of non-farm residential development. Any additional dwellings for agricultural or horticultural use shall be approved in accordance with regulations. Domestic water for any additional dwelling shall be provided in
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accordance with Provincial requirements and proven not to impact existing users in the Cherry Creek area.
5.1.14 Ensure that the design and layout of development and subdivision on lands adjacent to the ALR is consistent with the current edition of the Ministry of Agriculture publication titled “Guide to Edge Planning: Promoting Compatibility Along Urban-Agricultural Edges“.
5.1.15 Support requirements for new subdivisions or non-farm development adjacent to agricultural land or livestock grazing operations provide perimeter fencing.
Advocacy Policies
5.2.12 The Ministry of Agriculture is encouraged to assist with the development of an Agriculture Management Plan.
Source: BC Ministry of Agriculture 5.2 Resource
Context The Plan area is dominated by rural landscapes that include the benchlands of the Thompson Valley and natural grasslands. This picturesque setting attracts residents and tourists alike, and creates jobs in the resource and tourism industries.
Resource lands are primarily scattered acreages comprising of both private and Crown lands. Resource lands are valued for their grazing tenures, recreational, visual and forestry values and natural resource extraction.
These lands play a significant role in protecting the Plan area’s future resource potential; however, development requests may create conflicts and environmental degradation without effective resource management policies and agency cooperation.
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Resource Objectives 5.2.2 To encourage access to and opportunity for development of Crown resources that contribute tax revenues to support of community social, health, education and transportation services and provide future regional economic opportunities. 5.2.3 To minimize conflicts between resource activities and adjacent land uses 5.2.4 To support ongoing cooperative efforts to manage access to Crown lands for a wide spectrum of resource values and strengthen relationships with the Province and First Nations
Resource Policies 5.2.5 Resource lands are shown on Maps 1A, 1B and 1C. Land uses found in this designation include forestry, resource extraction, agriculture, public utilities and open land recreation. 5.2.6 The minimum parcel size for new subdivisions within the Resource designation is 8 hectares. 5.2.7 Work with communities and Provincial agencies to identify access strategies to Crown lake resources. 5.2.8 Encourage public education programs designed to protect of the Crown backcountry environment. 5.2.9 Support an open communication strategy with First Nations in the management, protection and development of Crown land. 5.2.10 Promote management policies that discourage rural land degradation.
5.3 Sand, Gravel and Other Mineral Extraction Policies
Context The Iron Mask batholith stretches across the eastern edge of the Plan area and has long been host to an array of ores (mainly gold and copper) and associated mining activity. A proposed open pit mine (Ajax) will expand upon ore mining activity previously known as Afton Mine while an underground block-caving mine (New Gold) operates just west of the City of Kamloops municipal boundary. On the south shore of Kamloops Lake, glacial deposits have contributed to pockets of aggregate.
Mineral resource extraction is regulated by the Ministry of Energy and Mines under two acts: Mineral Tenure Act, which establishes tenure, and the Mines Act including the Health, Safety and Reclamation Code, which regulates mining activities. The authority of the Regional District is limited to the provisions of the Local Government Act which
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requires that this OCP identify the approximate location and area of sand and gravel deposits that are suitable for future extraction to meet community needs. Extraction operations are denoted with a “G” on Maps 1A and 1B.
Residents expressed concern over the potential impacts of the proposed open-pit mining plans, including terrestrial disturbances and groundwater contamination. Aggregate mining provides an important local resource that is vital to the construction industry and transportation corridor construction and maintenance; however, some Plan area gravel pits have historically conflicted with adjacent residents, including noise, dust and rural intrusion.
Objectives 5.3.2 To protect lands having useable aggregate or mineral resources from development or adjacent uses that would limit or prohibit extraction. 5.3.3 To designate areas capable of long-term aggregate processing within the Plan area. 5.3.4 To minimize conflicts between sand and gravel processing operations and adjacent land uses. 5.3.5 To support the Province to require rehabilitation and reclamation of resource extraction sites.
Policies 5.3.6 Land covering areas of high mineral and aggregate potential are encouraged to locate on large parcels (Agriculture or Resource) to allow for extraction with minimal impacts and conflicts. 5.3.7 The Regional District will have due regard for these resource values when considering land development proposals within the general vicinity of these deposits. 5.3.8 Sand and gravel extraction is limited to the excavation, screening and storage of aggregate material derived from the site only. No additional processing of any kind is permitted, including crushing or the manufacturing of asphalt or concrete. Processing activities are permitted in Industrial areas or where permitted by Temporary Industrial Use Permits under conditions imposed by the Board of Directors. 5.3.9 New sand and gravel extraction and processing shall be discouraged from Growth Management Areas but encouraged to locate on large lots (Agriculture and Resource) subject to consistency with zoning bylaw regulations, Board policy and the Agricultural Land Commission (if required). New extraction operations shall demonstrate that all activity can be conducted in a manner that limits impacts on neighbouring properties, including: control of hours of operation, groundwater impacts, dust control, screening, access, traffic circulation, road residual and site reclamation. 5.3.10 Encourage mining and reclamation techniques which allow for reuse of post-mining parcels. 5.3.11 To obtain the views of the public for all new Mine permits and major permit amendments, it is recommended that the Ministry hold a public hearing prior to permit issuance and that notification of this hearing include a sign upon the land, a direct mail
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out to all owners/occupiers with 200 metres of the land, and advertising in a local newspaper.
Figure 6 - Mineral Tenures
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PART 6
Residential
Context Plan area residents cherish their individual neighbourhoods along with the ability to live, work, play and raise their families in a scenic, safe environment. Residents value the character of each community, suggesting that a comfortable sense of place is generated from:
• Wide open spaces • The rural folk Courtesy: Julie Reimer • A rural lifestyle • Low density • Peace and tranquility
Each settlement area has evolved over the past 100+ years for different reasons and in different ways. Today, most residential development is within the three Growth Management areas: Savona, Cherry Creek and Tobiano.
The Plan area contains a mix of residential development densities, ranging from contemporary multi-family developments in Tobiano to seasonal residential uses in Savona to large agri-residential parcels in Cherry Creek.
In 2011, the total Plan area population was 1074. Growth is predicted to remain stable over the next five years. While new resource development opportunities and resulting migration trends may provide some increase for the area, an aging population and low birth rates have a significant impact on new residential
Courtesy – Tim and Shalena Ries demand. Nonetheless, Tobiano and Savona, with the largest areas designated for future residential development, will experience the greatest level of growth.
The Plan provides for residential development of varying densities, affordability ranges and servicing requirements for each settlement area. These designations are in addition to the residential uses generally recognized on individual Rural Resource and Agriculture lands.
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6.1 Residential Objectives
6.1.1 To support residential development in an organized manner that is in keeping with the character of the respective communities. 6.1.2 To direct new residential subdivision and development to Growth Management Area (Tobiano) and Growth Management Area (Savona). 6.1.3 To ensure that all new development has sustainable infrastructure that can be developed and maintained at a reasonable cost and results in minimal impacts on the environment. 6.1.4 To encourage a variety of housing types, tenures and densities to meet the diverse needs and income levels of individuals and families. 6.1.5 To ensure that an adequate amount of land is made available in each respective neighbourhood to meet the housing demand for the next five to ten years. 6.1.6 To ensure that residential developments avoid sensitive natural areas and/or hazardous conditions.
6.2 Residential Policies
General 6.2.1 Residential use shall be in accordance with the designations identified on Maps 1A, 1B and 1C. “Protecting the rural character of 6.2.2 Encourage and support a green, environmentally Cherry Creek is very important to friendly approach to development throughout the my family and our neighbours.” Plan area, including siting design for energy conservation, low water fixtures and alternative Cherry Creek resident energy systems. 6.2.3 Home based business is allowed in any residential designation provided the accessory use is compatible with the residential character of the neighbourhood and compliant with Zoning Bylaw No. 2400. 6.2.4 Discourage new residential, commercial and industrial development in the City of Kamloops’ Fringe Area. 6.2.5 Bed and breakfast use is an appropriate accessory use in any residential designation, provided the use is consistent with the residential character of the neighbourhood and provides adequate on‐site parking. Additional conditions for bed and breakfast use are included in the zoning bylaw. 6.2.6 Density averaging may be used to protect open space, natural features, stream corridors, grasslands or environmentally sensitive areas. Density averaging may be considered in Settlement Area (Savona).
Cherry Creek 6.2.7 Retain Cherry Creek as a rural area consisting of farms and pre-existing residential development nodes that are generally rural in character. Pre-existing development shall not be used as a precedent for similar residential development.
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6.2.8 New residential development, home based business or bed and breakfast uses may only be considered where sustainable groundwater is proven not to detrimentally impact the groundwater supply.
Tobiano 6.2.9 Encourage new development that strengthens the existing neighbourhood as a comprehensive resort community with future commercial and-resort related uses. 6.2.10 Plan for Tobiano’s partial evolution from resort community to residential neighbourhood.
Savona 6.2.11 Encourage new waterfront and suburban residential development within the Savona Growth Management Area. 6.2.12 Medium and high density developments may only be considered if connected to a community sewer system. 6.2.13 Density averaging may be considered in order to protect open space, natural features, stream corridors, grasslands or environmentally sensitive areas.
6.3 Agri-Residential
The Agri-Residential land use designation includes lands both inside and outside the Settlement Boundaries. The parcels typically represent larger rural acreages with agricultural and residential uses.
6.7.1 Lands designed Agri-Residential are illustrated on Maps 1A, 1B and 1C. 6.7.2 Agri-residential lands are intended to remain agricultural in nature with very limited residential development. 6.7.3 All new Agri-Residential developments must meet the following criteria for approval: • domestic water source in compliance with the subdivision servicing bylaw or applicable Provincial legislation; • new developments adjacent to areas within the ALR should incorporate the Ministry of Agriculture’s to reduce conflicts.
6.3.1 Density averaging developments may be considered on a site-specific basis. Applications to subdivide pursuant to the Zoning Bylaw provisions should conform to the following requirements: a. be located within or in close proximity to Growth Management Area (Savona) with existing services; b. the form and character of development should not detract from the rural character of the built and natural environment; c. minimum parcel size shall be 2 hectares.
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6.4 Suburban Residential
The Suburban Residential land use designation includes lands only within the Savona Growth Management Area. These lands are serviced with a community water system. There is presently no community sewer service; however, a service may be developed in the future pending community demand and affordability. This designation seeks to preserve the semi-rural settlement character of the existing Savona neighbourhoods while supporting low and medium density residential infill Courtesy: Cara McKelvey development.
6.4.1 Lands designated Suburban Residential are illustrated on Maps 1A, 1B and 1C. 6.4.2 The density of development proposed in this designation shall be based on a minimum parcel size of 2000 square metres. 6.4.3 All residential development shall be serviced with the community water system. 6.4.4 Affordable housing shall be encouraged in the Plan area and may consist of the following, as permitted in the Zoning Bylaw: • one secondary suite; • resort accommodation use; • second dwelling for care and maintenance or for agricultural or horticultural uses; • recreational vehicles; • manufactured or modular homes.
6.5 Manufactured Home Park
Manufactured home parks represent a form of affordable housing. Seven properties in the Plan are zoned for manufactured home park use with four parks currently in operation. The Regional District will consider applications for new Manufactured Home Park Permits on the basis of demonstrated demand, ample developable area and proven services.
6.5.1 Lands designated Manufactured Home Park are illustrated on Maps 1A, 1B and 1C. 6.5.2 The Manufactured Home Park designation recognizes existing manufactured home parks or areas zoned for manufactured home park within the Plan area. 6.5.3 Existing and new manufactured home parks shall be redeveloped or developed in accordance with Manufactured Home Parks Bylaw No. 1949, 2003.
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6.5.4 A manufactured home park shall have demonstrated soil capacity to support on-site sewage disposal and sufficient groundwater for year round use, as required by the applicable Provincial agency. 6.5.5 Acknowledging residents’ goals of maintaining a rural atmosphere and protecting the groundwater resource, rezoning applications for new manufactured home parks in the Cherry Creek area will not be supported. 6.5.6 Any manufactured home park shall be buffered from adjacent agricultural lands in accordance with the Ministry of Agriculture’s Guide to Edge Planning.
6.6 Seasonal Residential
The Seasonal Residential designation applies to lands that provide short-term recreational housing options in a recreational vehicle park setting. This designation recognizes a land use that includes long-term recreational vehicle placement and seasonal usage on an annual basis rather than short-term, transient uses on a nightly or weekly basis.
6.6.1 Lands designated Seasonal Residential are illustrated on Maps 1B and 1C. 6.6.2 The Seasonal Residential designation recognizes a use providing for the accommodation of persons for recreational or vacation purposes on a non-transient but temporary basis during a portion of the calendar year. 6.6.3 Seasonal residential development shall be considered for lands that are: i. Serviced with a community water system ii. Zoned for Recreational Vehicle Park use iii. Located adjacent to a natural amenity iv. Located on lands outside the Agricultural Land Reserve v. Accessed by a secondary public road 6.6.4 Seasonal Residential development shall have a form and character of development that enhances and compliments the surrounding area. Sufficient buffering and screening shall be developed to mitigate conflicts with adjacent land uses.
6.7 Affordable Housing
A broad range of housing choices is supported in the plan area, including various forms of affordable housing. The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation suggest that housing is considered “affordable” if shelter costs account for less than 30 per cent of before-tax household income. Affordable housing includes housing provided by the private, public and not-for-profit sectors as well as all forms of housing tenure (e.g. rental, ownership and cooperative ownership).
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6.7.1 The Regional District will encourage a range of housing types and lot sizes throughout the Plan area in order to provide affordable housing and housing to address special needs such as temporary or additional dwellings.
6.7.2 Recognize that some affordable housing and social housing projects benefit from close proximity to other services in more suburban locations (Savona, Tobiano or Kamloops) is considered more suitable than rural locations within the plan area.
6.8 Cluster Residential Cluster Residential is supported for the plan area subject to a site-specific review of the development application with the Approving Officer. Rural cluster developments may provide a form of residential subdivision that conserves farmland and/or natural open spaces, enables the protection of natural, cultural or recreational features or reduces the impacts of large lot fragmentation, especially in the Fringe Area and areas within or adjacent to Growth Management Areas.
The rural cluster development technique can significantly lower the impact on the natural landscape and minimize the costs of providing advanced services to new parcels since they are located in close proximity to each other, rather than sprawled across the rural area; however, this development technique shall not be used simply as a means to develop smaller parcels in the plan area. Cluster development may be considered in conjunction with density averaging or density transfer; however, cluster development is not intended or suited for all locations in the plan area, including Cherry Creek.
6.8.1 Cluster designs may be considered in cases where density bonusing and/or density transfer are being considered in conjunction with higher servicing standards and site conservation initiatives where applicable.
Source: Conservation Design for Subdivisions by Randall G. Arendt
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PART 7
Commercial
Context High amenity values combined with ease of access from both Highway 1 and the Coquihalla Highway make the Plan area susceptible to urban sprawl. Local commercial land uses are generally supported; however, the City of Kamloops is recognized as the regional commercial business and service centre for the Thompson- Nicola Regional District. Presently, commercial development within the Plan area may be characterized as sparse with pockets of highway, tourist and local retail commercial developments in Cherry Creek and Savona.
Tobiano was planned and approved as a comprehensive resort development with a planned mix of commercial and residential uses with full community services. Since the comprehensive development zone approval, Courtesy - TNFC primary commercial development has not yet commenced; however, seasonal commercial amenities including the Tobiano Golf Course and The Marina at Tobiano may serve as catalysts for new commercial migration.
Changes in non-resident recreational accommodation choices, rising lakeshore property values and a strong residential neighbourhood have helped transform Savona’s waterfront from one that was infused with the energetic confusion of traditional tourist recreational and retail commercial uses to more passive, permanent residential uses.
Home-based businesses have experienced significant growth since the last Plan review. A range of accessory businesses have developed and are now interwoven into the fabric of the Plan area’s residential areas.
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7.1 Commercial Objectives
7.1.1 To recognize and support neighbourhood commercial uses in locations that can be conveniently accessed by local residents, integrated with the surrounding neighbourhood and developed in scale with and appropriate to the character of each respective community. 7.1.2 To consider recreational commercial development on private and Crown land in proximity to Kamloops Lake. 7.1.3 To recognize the City of Kamloops as the regional commercial hub for major commercial development where services and amenities are more readily available.
7.2 Commercial Policies
General 7.2.1 Commercial lands are illustrated on Maps 1A, 1B and 1C.
7.2.2 Temporary Permits pursuant to Section 921 of the Local Government Act may be considered for a short-term commercial uses. Please refer to Part 13 - Temporary Commercial & Industrial Use Permits.
7.2.5 Highway Service commercial uses are intended to support highway travelers with a mix of automotive, short-term accommodation and service industry uses. Existing Highway Service commercial uses are recognized in Cherry Creek and Savona. New developments are encouraged in Savona, where visibility, easy access from Highway No. 1 and existing services are important.
Savona 7.2.6 Support a small neighbourhood commercial centre in Savona to supply goods and services to the local Savona neighbourhoods. Local retail commercial uses should be considered in light of the following: a) compatibility with adjacent land uses and designations, and the character of the existing neighbourhood; b) exposure to natural hazards, including floodplain, instable soils and wildfire; c) mitigation of visual impacts where development is proposed within the Trans- Canada Highway corridor and other visually sensitive areas; d) archaeological assessment; e) proximity and access to existing road network; f) exhibits an attractive and safe streetscape by providing for adequate off-street parking, suitable landscaping, screening and signage that is appropriate to the location;
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g) connect to the community water system and provide adequate area for sewage disposal; and h) natural environment impact mitigation, including Development Permit and Lakeshore Development Guideline compliance. 7.2.7 Discourage or redirect new lakeshore commercial development that is not compatible with the existing neighbourhood.
Cherry Creek Cherry Creek 7.2.8 Local agricultural businesses including agri-tourism, farm-gate marketing, winery/cidery and a farmers market are generally supported provided that they comply with Zoning Bylaw No. 2400 and ALR legislation. 7.2.9 Limited tourist commercial or seasonal residential development may be considered south of the Trans-Canada Highway on Cherry Creek Station Road subject to a zoning bylaw amendment application and the following: a) adequacy of available water and sewer services; b) compatibility with surrounding development; c) zoning and/or campground bylaw compliance; d) hazard land assessment, including wildfire; e) public road improvements, including access to Kamloops Lake; and f) ability to provide safe access/egress from the Trans-Canada Highway.
7.2.11 Discourage development that detracts from the agri-residential neighbourhood or negatively impacts existing groundwater resources.
Tobiano 7.2.12 Support and encourage the viability of Tobiano’s future commercial centre (Monroe Station) by permitting mixed use buildings with commercial activities on the ground level and residential or resort hotel uses above. 7.2.13 Establish retail ‘Main Street’ to complement the existing Tobiano Golf Clubhouse facility and support a range of appropriate neighbourhood retail and commercial services. 7.2.14 Encourage the development of a commercial marina on Kamloops Lake (Crown land) and support linkages to water-related commercial activities on the lake and river systems. 7.2.15 Comprehensive Resort uses may be considered in accordance with those permitted uses noted in the zoning bylaw.
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Kamloops Lake
7.2.8 Recreation commercial facilities including campgrounds, destination resorts and service industry uses may be considered on a site-specific basis to encourage lake- based tourism, lake usage and water transportation connectivity.
Source: Tripadvisor
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PART 8
Industrial
Context The City of Kamloops is the regional industrial centre and major industrial uses are encouraged to locate within the municipal boundaries. The Fringe Area Policy Paper discourages industrial development in the City’s fringe area. Current industrial activities are limited within the Plan area. The development of additional industrial activities was generally not considered as a priority during the recent consultation process.
Savona has a large industrial presence in the Plan area with several large parcels zoned or designated for industrial use. The old Afton Mine site immediately west of the City of Kamloops is the only other industrial site, zoned specifically for heavy industrial mine use.
Municipal boundary extension is under consideration to annex the old Afton Mine, Domtar and New Gold properties into the City of Kamloops.
8.1 Industrial Objectives 8.1.1 To support traditional primary resource employment sectors in the Plan area, including forestry, mining and agriculture. 8.1.2 To encourage industrial development in or adjacent to existing industrial uses. 8.1.3 To maximize development opportunities in light of access to transportation corridors and resources. 8.1.4 To minimize conflicts and impacts between industrial land and other land uses.
8.2 Policies 8.2.1 Industrial lands are illustrated on Maps 1A, 1B and 1C.
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8.2.2 Mining activities associated with the Ajax or New Gold mines are encouraged to consider locating heavy industrial uses on existing Industrial lands before developing new industrial lands. 8.2.3 Preserve and support local industrial employment opportunities in the Savona area. The industrial area should retain its industrial focus and support processing, manufacturing, storage, and ancillary business uses. Any new industrial development proposals will be measured against the following criteria to assess the appropriateness of future development: a) compatibility with adjacent land uses and designations, and the character of the existing neighbourhood; b) exposure to natural hazards, including floodplain, instable soils and wildfire; c) mitigation of visual impacts where development is proposed within the Trans- Canada Highway corridor and other visually sensitive areas; d) archaeological assessment; e) proximity and access to existing road network; f) exhibits an attractive and safe streetscape by providing for adequate off- street parking, suitable landscaping, screening and signage that is appropriate to the location; g) connect to the community water system (within Growth Management Area 3) and provide adequate area for sewage disposal; and h) natural environment impact mitigation, including Development Permit and Lakeshore Development Guideline compliance.
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PART 9
QUALITY OF LIFE
Parks, Recreation, First Nations, Heritage and Institutional
Context Quality of life refers to one’s feeling of well-being, fulfillment, or satisfaction resulting from one or more external factors. Plan area residents expressed a strong sense of place or attachment to their local environments. Economic, social, spiritual, artistic, cultural, health, psychological, attitudinal, and environmental elements collectively contribute to the Plan area resident’s above average quality of life. Residents expressed a strong interest in the protection and conservation of attributes that contribute to their highly-valued lifestyles.
For generations, the Secwepemc have valued and respected the area for its traditional elements that have lead to a spiritual and cultural quality of life. Oral histories and stories continue to give meaning to the land in a far more spiritual connection to places.
Residents cherish and value their “recreational freedom” which includes access to a system of accessible and diverse recreational opportunities, open spaces, lakes and geographically unique places. Resident surveys voiced strong support for environmental protection and maintenance of the rural ambience.
Community heritage is any physical, cultural or social resource that is unique to, or valued by a community, and can be admired and respected by future generations. Heritage resources contribute to a sense of place by linking the past to the present. Few historical buildings exist in the plan area; however, the area has a rich archaeological and oral history reaching back thousands of years of Secwepemc land
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use. Known and unknown archaeological sites are protected under the Heritage Conservation Act. The Plan area also contains physical features and buildings related to post-contact European settlers, including a portion of the Brigade Trail on Kamloops Lake and the Wilson House.
Provincial Parks and Protected Areas
Steelhead (Sk’emqin) Provincial Park is the most visible park in the Plan area and the park most easily accessible by vehicle. Created in 1995 in conjunction with the Skeetchestn First Nation, the 38 hectare park consists of 44 campsites on the Kamloops Lake. Open from May to October, the park provides over one kilometer of waterfront on both Kamloops Lake and Thompson River. The park is home to significant historical buildings
Painted Bluffs Provincial Park is a 100 hectare park that protects a small area of geological significance on the north shore of Kamloops Lake. It is situated 34 kilometers west of Kamloops, and accessed by the Sabiston Road west of Savona. The primary role of Painted Bluffs Park is to protect the special geological features and ecological integrity of the grassland habitats at this site. The park along with the adjacent Dewdrop -Rosseau Wildlife Management Area, the Tranquille Ecological Reserve and Lac du Bois Park create an extensive area of land along the north side of Kamloops Lake that has been set aside for management of sensitive wildlife and other protected area values.
Six Mile Hill Protected Area is a 151 hectare protected area just east of Savona. A popular highway rest stop and lookout is within the Protected Area. The Protected Area resulted from negotiations relating to the Six Mile Economic Benefits and Settlement Agreement approved on March 12, 2001 by the Skeetchestn Band, the Province, Kamlands Holdings Ltd. and Pagebrook, Inc. (the owners of the Six Mile Ranch – predecessor to present-day Tobiano). The agreement affirmed the continued historical cattle grazing uses, the intended resort recreation and tourism uses, and identified specific wildlife and natural vegetation attributes that the signatories desire to preserve in the protected area.
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Community Parks and Recreational Resources The Savona Community Association owns and operates Savona Community Park, a waterfront park located at the foot of Tingley Street. The park and boat launch are managed by the Savona Community Association. Two unimproved neighbourhood parks on Watson Drive East were created as a result of subdivision applications in the early 1980s. Electoral Area “J” has a community parks service.
For new park development, the draft Regional Community Parks Plan Policy Framework (2005) provides guidance with respect to the provision of park land dedication and cash in lieu of park at the time of subdivision. In addition, the study identifies options for Development Cost Charge (DCC) to fund community parks.
The Savona Community Hall is one of the few recreational facilities in the Plan area.
Lake Amenity Access Kamloops Lake is without question the principal natural amenity in the Plan area, providing multiple and valued benefits to the area’s residents and visitors. Unfortunately, topography, private property and lakeshore railway right of ways have thwarted the public’s ability to more freely access Kamloops Lake. Unlike today’s legislation, older subdivision approvals in the Plan area did not require public lake access development.
Courtesy: TNFC
A limited number of improved and unimproved access points are dotted around Kamloops Lake, including a public boat launch facility in Savona. A private boat launch facility and new marina are located in Tobiano. A new public boat launch and park development is Planned at Tranquille in the City of Kamloops.
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Residents generally enjoy the present number of public access locations on Kamloops Lake; however, a desire for additional pedestrian and vehicle access points along with improvements to existing lake access points was expressed in the community survey.
9.1 Quality of Life Objectives
General 9.1.1 To protect, preserve and enhance the environment for the enrichment of the community and better enjoyment of all people. 9.1.2 To develop and maintain an aesthetically appealing and functional recreational environment that is affordable and accessible to all people. 9.1.3 To recognize and protect local heritage, indigenous cultures and archaeological values for the benefit of future generations. 9.1.4 To encourage public and private community facilities to meet the needs of Plan area residents based on growth and affordability. 9.1.5 To preserve, promote and enhance the area’s cultural heritage for the benefits of residents and visitors alike.
Source: Flickr
9.1.6 To ensure that services are adequate to meet the health and safety needs of each community in the Plan area. 9.1.7 To protect key views, vistas, landmarks and visual buffers. 9.1.8 To protect areas of outstanding natural beauty.
First Nations 9.1.9 To recognize that local government and First Nations have a common interest in a sustainable future. 9.1.10 To continue to build and enhance working relationships with First Nations in the Plan area, recognizing that constructive and enduring relationships with aboriginal communities provide a foundation for continued constructive dialogue on future regional land use issues. 9.1.11 To encourage and support the protection of archaeological features and sites.
Parks and Recreation 9.1.12 To balance outdoor recreation opportunities with environmental protection quality. 9.1.13 To encourage the provision of additional public lake access opportunities. 9.1.14 To protect the unique landscapes that have recreational and spiritual value.
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9.1.15 To acquire and provide suitable land for park and recreational opportunities. 9.1.16 Public lake access shall be encouraged as a part of new lakeshore developments. Public parking shall be considered at lake access points.
9.2 Quality of Life Policies
First Nations 9.2.1 Acknowledge and respect First Nations territory and traditional uses at provincial parks and other locations within the Plan area. 9.2.2 Continue information sharing with First Nations with claims in the Plan area on local government Plans, and encourage First Nations to share information with local government on the development of their land use Plans.
Parks and Recreation 9.2.3 Existing parks are shown on Maps 4A and 4B. 9.2.4 Work with the Province, and support area residents in identifying potential recreation and conservation parks and lake access improvements. 9.2.5 Support the Province’s initiative to maintain and enhance resource values through the management of motorized recreational access and dispersed camping on sensitive grassland ecosystems in the Savona, Six Mile and Cherry Creek areas. Sustainable alternative options to be considered, including those identified in the Logan Lake Area Off-Road Vehicle Trails Plan. 9.2.6 Cooperate with all appropriate Provincial agencies having authority, as well as the Canadian National and Canadian Pacific Railways, to establish increased opportunities for public access to Kamloops Lake and the Thompson River, where access can be provided while ensuring public safety. In addition, public access shall be maintained to Six Mile (Pat) and Beaton Lakes. 9.2.7 At the time of subdivision, the Regional District may take five percent of the subdivision land for future park development or take the cash equivalent of the five percent parkland dedication in accordance with the Local Government Act. The decision between land or cash in lieu of land dedication and the criteria for selection will be based on the following: • Require payment of money when subdivisions are not within a Growth Management Area;
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• Require payment of money when subdivisions are within the designated area for park land acquisition, but would not be able to meet the criteria for park land dedication – i.e. size, function, topography; • The money paid to the Regional District in lieu of park land dedication will be used for park land acquisition as shown on Map_____. • The criteria for selection of land to be dedicated by a subdivision applicant for park purposes include the following provisions: 1) Proximity to existing neighbourhoods, other parks and bodies of water; 2) Minimum land area to be dedicated should not be less than 2,000 square metres; 3) Cultural or natural features of significance (beach, grassland, viewscape); 4) Average slope of less than 20%; 5) Hazards assessment, including landslip, flooding or wildfire; 5) Suitability for amenity or stewardship purposes; 6) Potential for additional park dedication from other subdivision applications on surrounding parcels; 7) Adequate road accessibility; and 8) Absence of liens or encumbrances.
9.2.8 Support the development of a Regional Parks Plan, in cooperation with the Provincial agencies having authority. The parks Plan shall include a strategy to seek park or cash-in-lieu of park at the time of subdivision. 9.2.9 Support the enhancement and maintenance of the Savona Community Park. 9.2.10 Support the Province’s ongoing efforts to manage ORV (Off-Road Vehicle) use through the ORV Management Framework.
Heritage, Culture and Aesthetic Resources 9.2.11 Property owners proposing development with known or potential archaeological sites should contact the Archaeology Branch of the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations for advice and guidance on how to proceed in a way that will avoid or minimize impacts on the site. 9.2.12 Support the enhancement and expansion of the Savona Community Heritage Centre. 9.2.13 The Savona Cemetery shall be protected and is recognized as having significant cultural and historic value in the Plan area. 9.2.14 The Wilson House and Brigade Trail are significant man-made heritage features in the Plan area. The Balancing Rock is the most prominent and unique natural feature. Development shall be prohibited that may damage or detract from the quality of these resources.
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9.2.15 Encourage the development of a Regional Heritage Register of buildings, structures, cemeteries, landscape features, sites and objects. Heritage resources in the Plan area that have significant heritage value include the following: a. Brigade Trail b. Wilson Residence and Sheds (within Steelhead Park) c. Steelhead Cemetery 9.2.16 Review development applications and check the Provincial archaeological site database to determine if conflicts exist between proposed development and archaeological sites.
Institutional The residents of the Plan area pride themselves on their respective community attributes, resulting in identifiable attachments to places or buildings that are critical to their well-being, especially civic buildings, social spaces and community events. All told, the built environment can directly impact an individual’s ability to make healthy choices and begin the shift towards a healthier lifestyle.
The Plan area contains limited community or civic facilities due to the sparse population base, unincorporated nature of each settlement area and proximity to key services in Kamloops. There is one elementary school in the Plan area, located in Savona. Secondary school students must attend school in Kamloops. Other community facilities include a public library, post office, senior’s centre, community hall, cemetery, fire halls in Savona and Tobiano and a museum.
Policies
Police and Fire Protective Services 9.2.17 Continue to coordinate and provide 911 emergency response services. 9.2.18 Support the ongoing efforts of the volunteer fire protection services provided in Savona and Tobiano and work with each respective department during development application reviews. 9.2.19 Continue to support and work with the RCMP on improved response times. 9.2.20 Encourage government service and civic facilities to remain and locate in the future within Savona and Tobiano, thereby helping to create and maintain a service centre and a core area within each respective community. 9.2.21 Review the prospect of a shared emergency response program for the Cherry Creek area, including First Responders.
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9.2.22 Support the recommendations of the provincial Fire Smart program which includes guidelines in regards to building materials, fire separation, vegetation management, and general fire safety. 9.2.23 Work with each respective community to maintain and implement current evacuation Plans.
Community Health 9.2.24 Encourage ongoing implementation of the Interior Health Authority’s Healthy Community Initiative. 9.2.25 Encourage alternate transportation methods (pedestrian first, vehicle last) in order to improve health outcomes. 9.2.26 Recognize the importance of open spaces, parks, cultural and artistic events and recreational opportunities in enhancing the quality of life of residents. 9.2.27 Work with the residents of Cherry Creek to identify opportunities to fill the social gaps in the community, including community events and a community association.
Seniors and Affordable Housing
9.2.28 The work of long-term families, elders and other seniors in the Courtesy: Cara McElvey Plan is gratefully acknowledged. It is important to recognize their changing housing needs, social connectivity and support services in the community. 9.2.29 Support a range of housing choices to accommodate an aging population. 9.2.30 Support the Savona Seniors Centre and its important role in the community.
Recreational and Community Facilities The Plan area has a limited range of community services and public facilities which has generally met the needs of the residents for social and recreational uses. However, it is recognized that there have been changing expectations as the population transitions into a desire for more modern amenities for their families. At the same time, the community has an evolving need to incorporate a greater proportion of older residents requiring more specialized facilities.
Maintaining and enhancing recreational facilities have been identified by the area residents as a high priority. Residents underscored the importance of Savona Elementary School’s role in the community, serving as both a foundation for local elementary education and multi-purpose facility for indoor and outdoor activities.
9.2.31 School District 73 (Kamloops/Thompson) is continuing to experience changing enrolment patterns reflective of broader demographic and social changes (e.g. decreasing household size and aging of the population). Encourage the school district
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to support joint use or multi-purpose functions of the existing school building and facilities when compatible.
9.2.32 Recognize the TNRD public library and neighbouring institutional uses as a focal point for the community of Savona.
9.2.33 Support community and public facilities on lands designated Public (Civic?) Facility/Institutional as shown on Maps 1A, 1B and 1C. This designation may include libraries, schools, places of worship, community hall and other related community facilities.
Community Accessibility and Inclusion
9.2.34 Recognize the importance of supporting lifestyles where housing, public services and amenities are affordable, accessible and inclusive to all.
9.2.34 Encourage community activities and events that generate inter-generational and inter- cultural interest, participation and social integration. This may include a range of concepts, including community based activities or new associations.
9.2.35 Support initiatives that provide feedback related to recreational and social opportunities for local youth.
“Savona Elementary School is the heartbeat of this community.”
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PART 10
UTILITIES AND INFRASTRUCTURE
Context
Servicing levels are as diverse as each of the Plan area’s communities. Community services are provided to residents in Savona (water) and Tobiano (water and sewer) while rural residents rely on onsite sewerage systems and individual wells. The Plan acknowledges the advantages of orderly growth and pre-planning of subdivisions, and the disadvantages of high density unserviced development or premature, uneconomic extensions of utilities and services. It also supports combining servicing with sound land use development principles for the protection of environmentally sensitive land.
The areas of highest priority for infrastructure and utilities in the Plan area, as identified in the community survey, were related to community water services in the Cherry Creek area, community sewer service in Savona and fire protection in Cherry Creek.
Water Supply and Distribution
Groundwater
Groundwater is an important resource for plan area residents and source of drinking, agricultural and commercial / industrial uses. The plan area’s improved rural parcels, including Cherry Creek, are serviced with drilled wells. Land use activities can have a significant role in the quality and quantity of local groundwater resources. Local aquifer’s water quality and quantity varies due to a number of factors, including geological conditions, soils, vegetation cover, impermeable cover, sewage disposal methods and cumulative development impacts. In-ground water cisterns are being used for a potable water source. Figure 7 - Cherry Creek Aquifers Groundwater aquifer protection combined with sustainable planning approaches is of paramount importance for the future.
The Cherry Creek aquifers are shown on Figure 7. Existing and future land use, especially in the Cherry Creek area, must take into account the effects of climate change, the needs of domestic and agricultural water users and the character of local groundwater resources. Sustainable planning approaches must be considered.
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Surface Water
With the exception of Kamloops Lake, limited surface water sources exist within the plan area. Kamloops Lake is the principal surface water source supplying both the Savona and Tobiano community water systems. The Savona community water system, developed in the mid-1970s, is owned and operated by the Regional District. Tobiano is serviced with a private community water system. Water licenses exist for domestic and stock watering uses on some creeks and springs in the Plan area.
In response to some community interest in a Cherry Creek community water system, the Regional District sent letters to property owners within a defined area of Cherry Creek outlining a proposed conceptual design and cost estimate to construct a water system. Kamloops Lake was the planned water source. The letter included a “straw poll” survey asking whether property owners were in favour of the TNRD continuing to explore the feasibility of a water system and to establish a service.
A total of 179 survey forms were mailed to properties within the proposed service area. In total, 122 survey forms were returned to the TNRD, representing a 68% response rate. The results are summarized below:
Survey Answer Number of Respondents Percent Yes 40 33 No 82 67 Total 122 100
The results of the survey indicated that 67 percent of Cherry Creek residents did not want the TNRD to continue to explore the concept of a water system for the area. Accordingly, there was not sufficient support for the TNRD to establish a service.
Liquid Waste Management
Wastewater is primarily disposed by individual property owners into on-site sewage systems. These systems are regulated by the Sewerage System Regulation under the Public Health Act. Tobiano currently has a community sewer system developed under the Municipal Wastewater Regulation of the Environmental Management Act.
In 2005, a feasibility study was completed for the development of a new community sewer system in Savona. As part of the study, a questionnaire was mailed to all property owners in Savona in order to get more information on potential problems with the existing sewerage installations. At the time,
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there were 265 buildings connected to the Savona community water system. The number of respondents who had a house or a building on their lot was 69, which represented a 26% response rate. The results are summarized below: • Age of Sewage System 0-5 years 6 5-10 years 8 10-15 years 11 15-20 years 3 20-25 years 7 25 years+ 22 Don’t know 12
• Frequency of septic tank pumping Annually 2 Every 2 years 13 Every 3 years 11 Every 4 years 11 Every 5 years 11 5-10 years 8 Never 13
• Problems with septic system 14
The survey results suggested that many septic systems have reached the end of their lifespan and will have to be replaced. In addition, many systems are not maintained on a regular basis and may experience failures in the future. On many properties, limited options are available for system replacement. The study concluded with two options for a sewage system for Savona: • Option 1 – Treatment plan on north shore of Thompson River with effluent discharge to the ground using rapid infiltration basins. • Option 2 – Treatment plant located in Savona at one of two sites with deep lake outfall.
The study’s recommended community sewage system sites are illustrated as a “T” on Map 1C.
Property development and subdivision are often constrained by modern sewerage disposal requirements. The most recent resident surveys conducted for the OCP review expressed a strong interest in the development of a Savona community sewer system.
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Solid Waste Management
The Regional District’s solid waste and recycling facility is located on Savona Dump Road on the north shore of Kamloops Lake. The Regional District actively promotes a reduction in solid waste through the Regional Solid Waste and Recycling Program. An active curbside recycling program exists for Tobiano, Cherry Creek and Savona residents.
The TNRD’s Regional Solid Waste Management Plan was adopted in March 2008. The Plan’s Guiding Principles include the following: • Support the goal of 30% waste reduction in the next 5 years measured against 2004 levels. • Programs will follow the 5Rs hierarchy – reduce, reuse, recycle, energy recovery and residual management. • Commit to Education and social marketing programs. • Adoption of a Zero Waste philosophy. • Support for Product Stewardship Programs and Extended Producer Responsibility. • Establish a User-Pay approach to program funding. • Carry out Ongoing Evaluation of all new programs. • Use local government Policies and Enforcement to increase waste diversion. • Implement Criteria for New Programs to ensure any program that is implemented will be technically sound, economically feasible and acceptable to the public. • Support Cooperation Opportunities with member municipalities, other Regional Districts, First Nations and private sector as appropriate.
Plan area residents described garbage collection and recycling as the two leading local government programs or services that are most important to their household and their neighbourhood.
Stormwater Management Advanced stormwater retention exists only within the Tobiano development. Development within the remainder of the plan area relies on site-specific requirements, including Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure’s subdivision requirements or compliance with the Lakeshore Development Guidelines’ stormwater management requirements. No formal stormwater plan is in place for this area.
Other Utilities BC Hydro supplies most area residents with electrical power. Tobiano and Savona have natural gas services. Limited natural gas service is available in Cherry Creek. Improved wireless telecommunications are also available due in part to a new
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telecommunications tower located south of Tobiano. Most of the plan area has high- speed internet service. Some meteorological towers have been installed to assess the future viability of wind energy resources and possible independent power project development.
10.1 Objectives
10.1.1 To ensure the efficient provision of services and the provision of an efficient, affordable and environmentally appropriate level of infrastructure in all Plan area communities.
10.1.2 To ensure that adequate and sustainable supplies of potable water are available for all plan area residents.
10.1.3 To require the provision of appropriate, safe wastewater treatment in order to maintain healthy aquatic and groundwater environments, and to protect humans from water contamination and boil orders.
10.1.4 To require all properties with drilled wells, surface water licenses and on-site wastewater systems to meet all regulatory standards.
10.1.5 To encourage and support alternative energy systems for existing and new development.
10.1.6 To ensure that rainwater and stormwater are managed in a responsible manner, capitalizing on natural, self-sustaining approaches to water management while minimizing impacts on the natural environment.
10.2 General Policies
10.2.1 Direct development to areas that are appropriately serviced or where services are planned. 10.2.2 Ensure development applications are consistent with overall sustainable subdivision servicing standards. 10.2.2 Service extensions or new services shall be developed on a user pay basis.
10.3 Water Supply and Distribution Policies
10.3.1 Ensure that community water systems are consistent with the TNRD’s Water System Acquisition and Sustainability Strategy.
10.3.2 Advocate for a greater level of groundwater legislation as a means to conserve and protect existing and future groundwater supplies.
10.3.3 Encourage water conservation for all land uses, including residential, commercial, industrial and agriculture. The Regional District will encourage public acceptance of
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water conservation when designing homes, including consideration of water confinement measures such as cisterns or water storage facilities to capture rainwater and snowmelt so as to provide for additional domestic water, irrigation or a water source for fire fighting.
10.3.3 Encourage and support public education on water supply and periodic water testing.
10.3.4 Ensure that all new development within the Savona Water District is appropriately connected and metered.
10.3.5 The Regional District does not support water cisterns in meeting the proof of water requirements in subdivision.
10.3.6 Advocate for an integrated water management planning approach in the Cherry Creek area that will coordinate action on the groundwater supply, rainwater/snowmelt management, green infrastructure and Provincial regulations (e.g., Riparian Areas Regulation requirements).
10.4 Liquid Waste Management Policies
10.4.1 Consider community sewer development in Savona as a long-range planning strategy.
10.4.2 Support the Interior Health Authority in raising awareness of effective ways to develop wastewater disposal systems that minimize impacts on watercourses and the environment.
10.4.3 The Regional District does not support the discharge of treated sewage into any watercourse or pump and haul sewage disposal.
10.4.4 The Regional District endorses a more environmentally friendly and equitable approach to solid waste management through education, efficient and environmentally responsible solid waste disposal methods and advanced sewage disposal technologies.
10.5 Solid Waste Management Policies
10.5.1 Support the ongoing implementation of the Regional District’s Solid Waste Management Plan.
10.6 Stormwater Management Policies
10.6.1 Support the development of alternative stormwater management solutions that are both cost effective and environmentally sustainable. This may include strategies to reduce and control run-off such as stormwater detention ponds and open ditch retention in the rural areas.
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10.6.2 Encourage the Approving Officer to require that each parcel of land within a proposed subdivision have a site stormwater management plan.
10.6.3 Encourage public acceptance of water conservation when designing homes, such as low water consumption plumbing fixtures and water confinement measures such as cisterns or water storage facilities to capture rainwater and snowmelt so as to provide for irrigation and perhaps a water source for fire-fighting.
10.7 Other Utilities Policies
10.7.1 Encourage small-scale, self-reliant energy generation methods on properties including solar, wind or geothermal energy. 10.7.2 Support improvements to and expansion of communications coverage, including cell phone service and high-speed internet, taking into consideration visual impacts and Board policy compliance. 10.7.3 Encourage a thorough analysis of all proposed independent power projects to ensure plan area objectives are in compliance.
Courtesy: Telus
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PART 11
ROADS AND TRANSPORTATION NETWORKS
Context
For generations before contact, First Nations utilized trails and waterways to travel between hunting, fishing and trading areas within the Interior. In many cases, the trails that developed over time evolved into the same road network we enjoy today.
In the 1840s, a new travel route, the Brigade Trail, was developed from Kamloops to 100 Mile House. The trail was developed on the north shore of Kamloops Lake from Kamloops to Copper Creek and then headed north towards Loon Lake. This route was the area’s first major highway and continued use until 1858 when a ferry was established at Savona.
Paddle wheelers plied the waters between Savona, Kamloops and points along the North and South Thompson Rivers and Shuswap Lakes. The Canadian Pacific and Canadian National Railways became the primary transportation method for bulk goods and people transportation until the construction of the Trans-Canada Highway in the early 1960s.
Today, the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway No. 1) is the main east/west highway corridor in the Plan area. The Coquihalla Highway intersects with the Trans-Canada Highway at the far eastern edge of the Plan area. Long-range planning efforts to plan for the primary arterial routes have been made to ensure adequate traffic flow.
Secondary access roads provide most access to the settled sections of the plan area. Existing rural residential properties are serviced with local roads developed to a rural development standard. Most roads within the Tobiano development are private roads. Public road access to Kamloops Lake is limited to a few roads on the north shore and unimproved access points on the south shore.
A new marina in Tobiano and park/boat launch facility at Tranquille will impact residents and visitors ability to use Kamloops Lake and the river system as a viable transportation route, linking Savona, Kamloops and points north and west.
Public road locations and names are illustrated on Maps 5A and 5B.
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11.1 Objectives
11.1.1 To ensure the maintenance of a safe and efficient road system to serve the current and future needs of all residents and visitors.
11.1.2 To encourage creative alternatives to fossil-fuel motorized vehicular use. 11.1.3 To encourage the development of safe transportation options along the Trans-Canada Highway. 11.1.3 To encourage watercraft transportation on Kamloops Lake.
Policies 11.2.1 Encourage the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure (MoTI) to maintain local area roads in order to ensure safety of road users, including a review of key intersections, the use of turning or deceleration lanes, bicycle lane or additional signage where appropriate.
11.2.2 Encourage MoTI to upgrade the Trans-Canada Highway / Gardi Road / Cherry Creek Station Road intersection.
11.2.3 Work with the City of Kamloops and mining proponents to develop an integrated road network Plan.
11.2.3 Work with MoTI, railway companies and Plan area residents to identify areas for improved access to Kamloops Lake.
11.2.4 Work with advocacy groups and Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure to develop a separated bike path on the Trans-Canada Highway corridor between Savona and Kamloops.
11.2.4 Advocate for water-based transportation linkages between Savona, Tobiano and Kamloops.
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PART 12
DEVELOPMENT PERMITS
Context
Section 919.1 of the Local Government Act provides the Regional District with the authority to establish Development Permit areas for one or more of the following purposes: • protection of the natural environment, its ecosystems and biological diversity; • protection of development from hazardous conditions; • protection of farming; • revitalization of an area in which a commercial use is permitted; • establishment of objectives for the form and character of intensive residential development; • establishment of objectives for the form and character of commercial, industrial or multi-family residential development; • in relation to an area in a resort region, establishment of objectives for the form and character of development in the resort region; • establishment of objectives to promote energy conservation; • establishment of objectives to promote water conservation; • establishment of objectives to promote the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
Before subdivision, land alteration, or construction takes place in a permit area, property owners must first obtain a development permit that sets out site-specific development requirements. Permit conditions generally address environmental and safety issues. The Board may also require that the development be consistent with any building or lakeshore development guidelines.
This section sets out the following Development Permit Areas for the Plan area and provides the justification for their designation:
• Riparian Development Permit Area • Environmentally Sensitive Development Permit Area • Natural Hazard Land Development Permit Area
Where land is subject to more than one Development Permit Area designation, a single Development Permit is encouraged. The application will be subject to the requirements of all applicable Development Permit Areas, and any Development Permit issued will be in accordance with the guidelines of all such Areas.
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The Regional District, by resolution, may issue Development Permits which can vary or supplement provisions of any bylaw adopted under Part 26 of the Local Government Act, including zoning and subdivision servicing requirements.
11.1 Riparian Development Permit Area
Purpose The Riparian Development Permit Area (RDPA) is established for the protection of the natural environment, its ecosystems, and biological diversity, through the Local Government Act. The RDPA will assist the TNRD in implementing the Provincial Riparian Areas Regulation, which applies to all streamside protection and enhancement areas in the TNRD. Area The RDPA is comprised of a riparian protection area for fish habitat and shall include the following lands: a) all watercourses as shown on Provincial TRIM map series at 1:20,000 and adjacent lands, and any other watercourses as determined by a qualified environmental professional; b) in the case of Kamloops Lake, the RDPA shall comprise land within 100 metres of the natural boundary of the lake; c) for other watercourses, including small lakes, rivers, creeks and wetlands, the RDPA area comprises: i. lands within 30m of the natural boundary of the watercourse; ii. lands within 30m of the top of the ravine bank in the case of a ravine less than 60m wide; and iii. lands within 10m of the top of a ravine bank 60 metres or greater in width that link aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems that exert an influence on the watercourse (see Figure ___).
The Regional District may require a survey and/or QEP evaluation to accurately determine if an RDP application is required.
Figure 8 : Riparian Assessment Area
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Justification
The primary goal of the RDPA designation is to regulate development activities in the riparian areas adjacent to watercourses in order to preserve natural features, functions and conditions that support fish life processes, for example: 1) reducing or eliminating erosion, 2) maintaining tree canopy, and 3) protecting ground and surface water from contamination. Development impact on watercourses can be minimized by careful project examination and implementation of appropriate measures to preserve environmentally sensitive riparian areas.
DP for bldg waived (subject to site conditions)
f ld f h Septic works do not require engineer & DP
Septic works require engineer & DP
DP for minor soil disturbance (fence, drive- way, garden) waived btwn 30 and 100m
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Guidelines
1. Undertakings requiring a Development Permit shall include, but may not be limited to, any of the following activities associated with or resulting from residential, commercial, institutional or industrial activities: a) removal, alteration, disruption or destruction of vegetation within 30m of a watercourse; b) disturbance of soils such as driveway construction within 30m of a watercourse; c) construction or erection of buildings and structures within 30m of a watercourse; d) creation of non-structural impervious or semi-impervious surfaces within 30m of a watercourse; e) flood protection or utility works within 30m of a watercourse; f) construction of roads, trails, docks, wharves and bridges within 30m of a watercourse; g) construction or replacement of sewer and water services within 30m of a watercourse or 100m of Kamloops Lake; h) drainage system work within 30m of a watercourse, or 100m of Kamloops Lake; and i) subdivision as defined in the Land Title Act, including the division of land into 2 or more parcels within 30m of a watercourse or 100m of Kamloops Lake, except where the subdivision does not result in an increase in density or is for road, park, utility, or other similar purposes. 2. A Development Permit may be issued once the following guidelines have been met: a) a Type 1 septic system and field are setback a minimum of 100 metres from any watercourse; or Lesser setbacks may be considered for Type 1 systems in some cases where a new system replaces or improves an existing failing one. All setbacks must abide by the recommendations of the Sewerage System Standard Practices Manual with regard to reduction in critical horizontal setback distances. b) in the case of a septic system and field with a setback of less than 100 metres from a watercourse, the owner must engage an appropriately qualified professional engineer or geoscientist to review the proposed siting of the septic system and field to ensure there will be no detrimental impacts on the adjacent water body. AND for other development in areas within 30m of a watercourse: c) Assessment by a Qualified Environmental Professional (QEP) in accordance with the Riparian Areas Regulation; d) Provincial notification that a QEP has submitted a report certifying that he or she is qualified to carry out the assessment, that the
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assessment methods have been followed, and provides in their professional opinion that a lesser setback will not negatively affect the functioning of a watercourse or riparian area and that the criteria listed in the Riparian Areas Regulation has been fulfilled, including acceptance by DFO and MOE where required; e) Written confirmation from the QEP that the Riparian Areas Regulation implemented through the RDPA does not supersede other federal, provincial and/or local government requirements, including that of other development permit areas, building permits, flood covenants, federal or provincial authorizations. AND FINALLY, for areas within 100m of Kamloops Lake: f) submission of completed application form(s), relevant supporting documentation (i.e. site plans, photographs/illustrations, environmental studies, professional certifications, etc.) and fees. 3. For any environmental and riparian matters not addressed in this section, the guidelines in the TNRD’s Lakeshore Development Guidelines are to be followed.
Exemptions A Riparian Development Permit is not required under the following circumstances: a) construction, alteration, addition, repair, demolition and maintenance of farm buildings; b) reconstruction, renovation or repair of a legal permanent structure if the structure remains on its existing foundation in accordance with s. 911 of the Local Government Act, provided this foundation is not moved, extended, or development results in a further encroachment into a riparian assessment area (in that case a RDPA is required); c) minor ground disturbance such as hand digging for installation of fencing, services, or similar works not closer than 7.6 m to the natural boundary of the watercourse; d) cases where an applicant can demonstrate that the conditions of the RDPA have already been satisfied, or a Development Permit for the same area has already been issued and the conditions in the Development Permit have all been met, or the conditions addressed in the previous Development Permit will not be affected; e) a letter is provided by a QEP confirming that there is no visible stream as defined in the RAR; f) activities a, b, c, d, and f listed in Guideline 1, on non-waterfront parcels (across a road dedication), provided they are clearly outside the Riparian Habitat.
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11.2 Environmentally Sensitive Development Permit Area
Purpose The Environmentally Sensitive Development Permit Area (ESDPA) is designated under the Local Government Act for the purpose of protecting environmentally sensitive areas from inappropriate development. Some environmentally sensitive areas are not covered by the RDPA, e.g., unique vegetation or forest communities, wildlife features (e.g., raptor nests, wildlife corridors, waterfowl habitat), habitat supporting rare or endangered species.
Area All environmentally sensitive areas are designated as a Development Permit Area (see Map___). Since some of these are not currently mapped, identification of these areas will be undertaken based on existing maps, new mapping as it becomes available, and identification by proponents, the federal or provincial governments and the TNRD.
Justification The justification for this designation is to establish conditions on developments such that rare, endangered, and sensitive ecosystems and wildlife are protected from inappropriate development and, where appropriate, development impacts are mitigated. The goals of this designation are to: • Preserve and enhance the sensitive ecosystems whenever possible; and • Preserve and enhance general habitat, biodiversity and natural environment regimes.
Guidelines 1. A Development Permit is required on land identified as an environmentally sensitive area. Development requiring a Development Permit shall include, but may not be limited to, any of the following activities associated with or resulting from residential, commercial, institutional or industrial activities or ancillary activities, subject to local government powers under the Local Government Act: • Removal, alteration, disruption or destruction of vegetation; • Disturbance of soils; • Construction, erection or alteration of buildings and structures; • Creation of non-structural impervious or semi-impervious surfaces; • Flood protection works; • Construction of roads, trails, docks, wharves and bridges; • Provision and maintenance of sewer and water services; • Development of drainage systems; • Development of utility corridors; and
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• Subdivision as defined in the Land Title Act, including the division of land into 2 or more parcels, except where the subdivision does not result in an increase in density.
2. A Development Permit may be issued once the following guidelines have been met: • Assessment by a QEP, with recommendations for protecting the environmentally sensitive area through siting of buildings, structures and utilities, or through mitigation measures.
Exemptions The ESDPA does not apply to the following: • Construction, alteration, addition, repair, demolition and maintenance of farm buildings; • Reconstruction, renovation or repair of a legal permanent structure if the structure remains on its existing foundation in accordance with Section 911 of the Local Government Act. Only if the existing foundation is moved, extended, or the development results in a further encroachment into an environmentally sensitive area would an ESDPA be required; • Emergencies: Procedures to prevent, control or reduce flooding, erosion or other immediate threats to life or property do not require a Development Permit, including: . Emergency flood or erosion protection works; . Clearing of an obstruction from a bridge, culvert or drainage flow; and . Repairs to bridges or safety fences. • An Development Permit of this type has already been issued or a covenant dealing aquatic ecosystems issues is registered on property title for the area in the past, and the conditions in the Development Permit or covenant have all been met, and the conditions addressed in the previous Development Permit or covenant will not be affected; and • A letter is provided by a QEP confirming that there is no environmentally sensitive area.
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11.4 Natural Hazard Lands Development Permit Areas
Purpose The Natural Hazard Lands Development Permit Area is designated under the Local Government Act for the purpose of protecting development from hazardous conditions. Two natural hazard lands categories have been established under this permit area: steep slopes.
Area All areas with slopes in excess of 30% are designated as Hazardous Lands Development Permit Area (Steep Slopes). Map___ identifies some, but not necessarily all of these areas. These are referred to as 'steep slopes' below. The TNRD requires an assessment of slope conditions as a condition of development permit issuance. Provincial 1:20,000 TRIM mapping, using 20m contour information, may provide preliminary slope assessment; however, a more detailed site assessment will be required for slopes in the vicinity of 30% or more.
Justification The justification and goals of this designation are to: • Ensure that people and property are safe from steep slopes; • Ensure that development in steep slope areas is designed and engineered to provide a high level of protection from ground instability and/or slope failure; and • Ensure that drainage near steep slopes is managed in a way that does not negatively impact the community or downslope lands, resources or uses.
Guidelines
1. To protect against the loss of life and to minimize property damage associated with ground instability or slope failure, the TNRD discourages development on steep slopes.
2. Where steep slopes are required for development, development permits addressing steep slopes shall be in accordance with the following: • Prior to construction of, addition to or alteration of a building or other structure or prior to subdivision approval, the applicant shall submit a report prepared by a professional engineer or geoscientist with experience in geotechnical engineering. The report, which the Regional District will use to determine the conditions and requirements of the development permit, must certify that the “land may be used safely for the use intended” as provided under the Local Government Act.
3. The report should include the following types of analysis and information:
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• site map showing area of investigation, including existing and proposed: buildings, structures, septic tank and field locations, drinking water sources, watercourses and other natural features; • strength and structure of rock material, bedding sequences, slope gradient, landform shape, soil depth, soil strength and clay mineralogy; • surface and subsurface water flows and drainage; • vegetation: Plant rooting, clearcutting, vegetation conversion, etc. • recommended setbacks from the toe and top of the slope; • recommended mitigation measures; and recommended 'no-build' areas.
4. Development in steep slopes should avoid: • cutting into a slope without providing adequate mechanical support; • adding water to a slope that would cause decreased stability; • adding weight to the top of a slope, including fill or waste; • removing vegetation from a slope; • creating steeper slopes; and • siting Type 1, 2 and 3 septic systems and fields within steep slopes. Exceptions will only be considered in cases where a new system replaces or improves an existing failing one. All practices must abide by the recommendations of the Sewerage System Standard Practices Manual, which requires system design by a Professional Engineer on sites exceeding 25% slope.
5. A Covenant may be registered on title identifying the hazard and remedial requirements as specified in the geotechnical or engineering reports for the benefit and safe use of future owners.
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PART 13
TEMPORARY COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL PERMITS
Context
Temporary Commercial and Industrial Permits may be issued by the Regional District under the authority of the Local Government Act. The intent of the temporary commercial and industrial permit provisions is to accommodate the future potential for temporary commercial or industrial uses as specified by the permit. The temporary commercial or industrial use may continue in accordance with the provisions of the permit until the permit expires, or three years after the permit was issued, whichever occurs first. Permits may only be renewed once for one extension for up to another three-year period. Further extensions are not permitted. Temporary permits are not a replacement for a land use designation amendment in accordance with the zoning bylaw but simply a temporary land use.
Policies 13.1.1 The Regional District will consider issuing Temporary Use permits throughout the Plan area.
13.1.2 The Regional District requires an applicant for a temporary use permit to adhere to the following general conditions: a) the use must be clearly temporary or seasonal in nature; b) does not cause negative health, safety or environmental impacts; c) minimize the intrusion of the use on adjoining agricultural, residential and resource areas, as applicable, including the possible requirement of sound and visual mitigation measures; d) has a low demand for water and sewer services; e) does not permanently alter the site upon which it is located, and f) complies with all conditions specified by the Board in the Temporary Use Permit.
13.1.3 The Regional District may require as a condition of issuing the permit that the owner of the land provides security to guarantee the performance of the terms of the permit.
13.14 The Board of Directors may require the proponent to invite the local community to a public meeting prior to consideration of a resolution to conditionally approve a proposed temporary use.
13.1.6 Should the applicant wish the continuation of the use beyond the expiry of a permit, or expiry of a renewal, an application to amend the zoning bylaw and/or official community Plan must be submitted well in advance of permit expiry in order to
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assure non-interruption of land use. It is recommended that applications be submitted six (6) months prior to permit expiry. Uses permitted on a temporary basis may not necessarily be approved on a permanent basis.
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REFERENCES
1 www.landoftheshuswap.com
2 Madrone Environmental Services Ltd. (2010). Archaeological Impact Assessment of the Tranquille on the Lake Property. Mimeograph. 152pp
3 Urban Futures (2012). A Context for Change Management in the Thompson-Nicola Regional District – Projections of Population, Housing and Employment Change. Mimeograph. 60pp
4 Ibid.
5 Taylor, W.A. (1975). Crown Lands : A History of Survey Systems. Victoria, BC: Ministry of Sustainable Resource Management – Registries and Titles Department. Fifth Reprint – 2004. 53pp.
6 Balf, Mary. (1978). Why that Name? Place Names of the Kamloops District. Kamloops: Kamloops Museum.
7 Balf, Mary. (1980). Savona’s Ferry. Kamloops: Kamloops Museum.
Balf, M. (1981). Kamloops: A History of the District up to 1914. In Kamloops Museum Archives. Favrholdt, K. Fur Trade Trails through British Columbia. In Kamloops Museum Archives.
Ministry of Envrionment, Lands and Parks. (1992). Thompson River Water Quality Assessment and Objectives – Technical Appendix. Mimeograph. 307pp.
Johnsen, Timothy F. and Brennand, Tracy A. (2004). “Late-glacial lakes in the Thompson Basin, British Columbia: paleogeography and evolution”. Canadian Journal of Earth Sciences. November 2004, Vol. 41, No. 11. pp. 1367-1383.
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SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS COMMUNITY CONSULTATION AND SURVEY
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